The problem
Certain passenger vehicles were produced with lower than specified torque on both front brake caliper to steering knuckle attachment bolts. With improper torque, the clamp load at the joint May not be adequate to prevent movement between the caliper bracket and knuckle.
The risk
Depending on whether one or both bolts backs out or fractures, the result can be locking of the affected wheel during braking and an abrupt steering input in the direction of the locked wheel, reduced braking and noise from the affected wheel, or severing of a brake hose, increased brake pedal travel, and reduced steering control. Reduced braking or steering control could cause a crash.
The fix
Dealers are to tighten both bolts to the specified torque. Owner notification began on June 28, 2004. Owners should contact Chevrolet 1-800-630-2438 or Pontiac 1-800-620-7668.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 04V-287 (04V287000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 04049 |
| Manufacturer | General Motors, LLC |
| Component | Service brakes, hydraulic |
| Report date | June 23, 2004 |
| Owners notified | June 28, 2004 |
| Vehicles affected | 47,991 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the brakes
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 04V-287 repair free?
Yes. Chevrolet dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers are to tighten both bolts to the specified torque. Owner notification began on June 28, 2004. Owners should contact Chevrolet 1-800-630-2438 or Pontiac 1-800-620-7668.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 47,991 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.