The problem
On certain passenger vehicles, the rear lamps that provide stop and turn signals and tail lamp functions stop working because of inadequate contact between the bulb and socket. In addition, if one bulbs were to become inoperative while the vehicle was operating in cruise control, the cruise control would disengage when the remaining bulb was activated. If both lamps were to become inoperative, the cruise control would not engage.
The risk
An inoperative brake lamp will not convey the driver's intention of stopping to drivers in following vehicles, and an inoperative rear turn signal lamp will not convey the driver's intention to turn to drivers in following vehicles. Both of these failures can increase the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the rear lamp bulb socket assemblies and apply grease or replace them if necessary. The recall began on January 18, 2005. Owners should contact Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438 or Pontiac at 1-800-620-7668.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 04V-524 (04V524000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 04083 |
| Manufacturer | General Motors, LLC |
| Component | Exterior lighting › Turn signal |
| Report date | November 1, 2004 |
| Owners notified | January 18, 2005 |
| Vehicles affected | 256,025 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the lights
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 04V-524 repair free?
Yes. Chevrolet dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will inspect the rear lamp bulb socket assemblies and apply grease or replace them if necessary. The recall began on January 18, 2005. Owners should contact Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438 or Pontiac at 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 256,025 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.