Gm/seat belt buckle assembly
Defect Summary
Certain sport utility vehicles were built with a driver's seat belt buckle assembly that contains an energy-absorbing loop. sustained loads of sufficient magnitude and duration on the belt in severe crashes could fully deploy the buckle energy-absorbing loop, introducing a total of 10 additional inches of webbing into the seat belt system. the free falling latch plate used in this system may allow webbing to dynamically distribute between the lap and shoulder belt as the driver's position changes during a multiple rollover event.
Safety Consequence
If the energy-absorbing loop fully deploys in a severe multiple rollover crash, it is possible that a belted driver may experience partial or even complete ejection from the vehicle.
Corrective Action
Dealers will replace the energy-absorbing seat belt assemblies with one that does not have the energy-absorbing loop. owner notification began on august 8, 2003. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020, gmc at 1-800-462-8782, or oldsmobile at 1-800-442-6537.
Similar Recalls
Other recalls from General Motors, Llc or involving Seat Belts.
FAQ: Recall 03V117000
Your rights, the repair process, and what each field on this page means.
What is recall 03V117000?
NHTSA recall 03V117000 was issued by General Motors, Llc on March 31, 2003. It addresses: Gm/seat belt buckle assembly. The recall affects approximately 312,715 vehicles, with the defect involving the Seat Belts component.
How do I get this recall repaired?
Contact any authorized General Motors, Llc dealer and reference NHTSA recall ID 03V117000 or the manufacturer campaign number 03020. Under federal law, the repair is completely free regardless of vehicle age or owner history.
Is my vehicle included in this recall?
The only way to confirm is to look up your 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. NHTSA's tool will tell you if VIN-by-VIN this exact recall applies.
How long do I have to get a recall repair done?
There is no expiration on most federal safety recalls. Even if your vehicle is years old and you bought it used, the manufacturer is required to perform the repair at no cost.
Where does the data on this page come from?
All information on this page is sourced directly from the U.S. Department of Transportation public dataset for NHTSA recalls. Last refreshed: 2026-05-22. For the most current official notice, visit nhtsa.gov/recalls.