The 1996 GMC Jimmy has 3 recalls, the most serious being a front upper ball joint that can separate and cause loss of steering control or a collapse of the front suspension.
The ball joint issue has two separate filings: one applies broadly to 4-wheel drive models, while the other is specifically scoped to vehicles sold or registered in certain northern and midwestern states where road conditions and corrosion may accelerate wear. Both describe the same failure, where the joint separates and the driver loses the ability to steer or the front end drops. There is also a seatbelt concern on 2-door utility vehicles equipped with manual locking recliner bucket seats: the outboard belt webbing on the driver's or passenger's side can tear apart in a frontal crash, leaving the occupant unrestrained if the vehicle rolls or is struck again.
At a glance
What can fail
Upper ball joints may separate in the front suspension, even when owners maintain regular chassis lubrication as recommended.
What the fix does
GM will replace separated upper ball joints at no charge for 8 years or 100,000 miles from original service date.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
The upper control arm ball joints can corrode and fail on certain sport utility vehicles sold or registered in specific northeastern and midwest states and Washington, D.C.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace both upper ball joints at no cost. Contact your brand's customer service if the repair is not completed within a reasonable time.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The outer safety belt webbing on the driver's or passenger's seat may separate during a front-end crash.
What the fix does
Dealers will install a protective cover over the recliner mechanism.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
