2001 Pontiac Aztek

On certain Aztek (AWD), Montana (AWD), Relay (AWD), RendezVous (AWD), RendezVous (FWD), Silhouette (AWD), Terraza (AWD), Terraza (FWD), Uplander (AWD) and Venture (AWD) vehicles equipped with independent rear suspension, when operated in extreme cold temperature and on rough roads, water and salt can intrude past the ball joint seal.  The combination of theses conditions may then lead to premature wear of the ball joint.  If the ball joint wear progresses to the point of separation from the lower control arm, a loss of vehicle control may occur.  Correction: Dealers will replace both ball joints with new ball joints which have a revised boot and ball stud to improve the seal to the ball stud shaft.

On certain vehicles, the passenger air bag was manufactured without a check pin.  An air bag without the check pin could produce increased pressure at the onset of the air bag deployment and reduced pressure afterward.  This could increase the severity of injury to a person who was not properly restrained and who was close to the passenger air bag at the time of deployment.  It could also reduce the ability of the air bag to protect a restrained front seat passenger.  Correction:  Dealers are to inspect, and if necessary, replace the passenger air bag.