Front Safety Belt Buckle Release Button Can Break (95V103008)

FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLE RELEASE BUTTON CAN BREAK

NHTSA RECALL BULLETIN

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION

Model(s): 1988 Suzuki Samurai

1989 Suzuki Samurai

1989 Suzuki Sidekick

1989 Suzuki Swift

1990 Suzuki Samurai

1990 Suzuki Sidekick

1990 Suzuki Swift

1991 Suzuki Samurai

1991 Suzuki Sidekick

1991 Suzuki Swift

Campaign No: 95V103008

Passenger and multi-purpose vehicles equipped with safety belts made by Takata Corporation.

SYSTEM

Seat belts; belt buckles.

FAULT

Fastener, Thread failure.

DESCRIPTION OF DEFECT

The front safety belt buckle release buttons can break. These red plastic release buttons are marked "PRESS." If a button breaks, pieces can fall into the buckle assembly causing the buckle to operate improperly.

CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT

The safety belts would not provide adequate protection to an occupant in a vehicle crash.

CORRECTIVE ACTION

Owners should promptly check the condition and operation of both front safety belt buckles and carefully inspect the red release button for any breaks or cracks. They should ensure that both buckles are operating properly by inserting each latch plate into its buckle, tugging on the belt to make sure the latch is securely locked, and then pressing the release button. The latch plate should pop out of the buckle when the button is pressed. If either button shows a sign of breaking or cracking or if either buckle fails to operate properly, owners should promptly contact their authorized dealer to schedule an appointment to have the buckle replaced or repaired, free of charge. The manufacturer is developing a remedy designed to prevent failure of the buttons that are not currently broken.

NOTE

If your vehicle is presented to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and the remedy is not provided free of charge within a reasonable time, pleae contact Suzuki at 1-714-996-7040. Also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline at 1-800-424-9393.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Eastern Time. For more information call (800) 424-9393 or (202) 366-0123. For the hearing impaired, call (800) 424-9153.