NHTSA recall 97V-063 (97V063002)

latches, locks and linkages recall reported May 12, 1997 - about 46,000 vehicles affected.

NHTSA campaign number: 97V063002
Also written as: 97V-063
Reported: May 12, 1997
Vehicles affected: ~46,000
Component: latches, locks and linkages

What is being recalled

EXCESS LUBRICATION CAN CAUSE THE RUBBER DOOR LATCH SWITCH COVER TO DEFORM, AND THE DOOR LATCH SWITCH TO MALFUNCTION, SO THAT THE SHOULDER BELT ANCHORAGE WOULD REMAIN AT THE A-PILLAR WHEN THE DOOR WAS CLOSED.

Why it is dangerous

IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEAT OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED.

The fix (free at any franchised dealer)

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE DOOR LATCH SWITCH WITH A SWITCH THAT UTILIZES REDUCED LUBRICATING GREASE, IMPROVED CONTACT SURFACE, AND A DIFFERENT RUBBER ISOLATION BOOT.

Recall repairs are always free, regardless of vehicle age or where you bought the car. Quote the campaign number 97V-063 when calling a dealer.

Affected 2 models

Dodge Colt - 1992, 1993

Plymouth Colt - 1992, 1993

Each year links to that car's full history: every recall, owner complaints and common problems.

Is YOUR car included? A campaign rarely covers every single vehicle of a model year. Check your exact car by its 17-character VIN with the free VIN decoder and recall check.

Source: NHTSA recall campaign data (public domain), refreshed weekly. See also the latest recall campaigns.