Autocar/steering pitman arm
Defect Summary
On certain class 8 trucks, the castle nut holding the pitman arm to the steering drag link can vibrate loose due to a missing cotter pin.
Safety Consequence
If the steering components become detached from each other, this could result in loss of vehicle steering without warning, which could cause a crash.
Corrective Action
Autocar has telephoned all customers and all vehicles have been repaired.
Similar Recalls
Other recalls from Autocar, Llc or involving Steering.
FAQ: Recall 03V453000
Your rights, the repair process, and what each field on this page means.
What is recall 03V453000?
NHTSA recall 03V453000 was issued by Autocar, Llc on November 14, 2003. It addresses: Autocar/steering pitman arm. The recall affects approximately 115 vehicles, with the defect involving the Steering component.
How do I get this recall repaired?
Contact any authorized Autocar, Llc dealer and reference NHTSA recall ID 03V453000 or the manufacturer campaign number A-0303. 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.