Vehicle recall 81V038000 · March 24, 1981

Chevrolet Citation, Oldsmobile Omega and 2 more models

The engine-to-body ground cable on certain vehicles may have been damaged during manufacture.

Source: NHTSA data as of September 22, 2026. Last refreshed Sep 23, 2026, 2:43 AM UTC.

Summary: The engine-to-body ground cable on certain vehicles may have been damaged during manufacture. The cable could eventually break due to the relative motion between the engine and body during vehicle operation.
Remedy: A new ground cable will be installed free of charge.
Notes: Vehicle description: passenger vehicles.system: electrical; ground cable.consequences of defect: if the cable breaks when maximum electrical loads arebeing placed on vehicle, headlights could suddenly dim or wipers could slowdown. This would reduce visibility in severe weather or nighttime drivingconditions. An accident could result.note: if dimming occurs, restricting the use of other electrical accessoriescould partially restore some of the headlight brightness or wiper speed.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign: 81V038000
Reported to NHTSA: March 24, 1981
Filed by: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Owner notification: March 31, 1981
Vehicles potentially affected: 105,130
Initiated by: the manufacturer
Components: Electrical system › 12V/24V/48V battery › Cables

Recall 81V038000 on nhtsa.gov, with the manufacturer’s documents

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