The problem
Defective lower control arm ball joint attachment nuts were not properly torqued and can loosen.
The risk
If the lower control arm ball joint loosens, fatigues and separates from the front suspension knuckle, it could cause loss of vehicle control.
The fix
Dealers will inspect both front lower control arm ball joint attachment nuts for proper torque. If the ball joint has loosened from the knuckle, both the ball joint and the knuckle will be replaced.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 96V-019 (96V019000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | General Motors, LLC |
| Component | Suspension › Front › Control arm › Lower ball joint |
| Report date | January 30, 1996 |
| Owners notified | February 23, 1996 |
| Vehicles affected | 308 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the suspension
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 96V-019 repair free?
Yes. Buick dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will inspect both front lower control arm ball joint attachment nuts for proper torque. If the ball joint has loosened from the knuckle, both the ball joint and the knuckle will be replaced.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 308 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.