The problem
The instrument panel cluster trim plate/bezel can sag and cover the light emitting diode portion (lighted pointed above panel) of the transaxle shift indicator display. This does not comply with FMVSS no. 101, "control location, identification, and illumination."
The risk
Consequence of non-compliance: the driver of the vehicle would not be able to see the actual position of the transaxle gear selector resulting in a driver either inadvertently leaving a parked or idling vehicle in drive, reverse, or neutral rather than park, or selecting an incorrect transaxle shift position while driving the vehicle.
The fix
Dealers are to install a new instrument panel cluster trim plate/bezel assembly which is not subject to this condition.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 96V-003 (96V003000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | General Motors, LLC |
| Component | Power train › Automatic transmission › Gear position indication (PRNDL) |
| Report date | January 2, 1996 |
| Owners notified | February 2, 1996 |
| Vehicles affected | 28,068 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the transmission & drivetrain
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 96V-003 repair free?
Yes. Pontiac dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers are to install a new instrument panel cluster trim plate/bezel assembly which is not subject to this condition.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 28,068 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.