WASHINGTON - Because of safety concerns, Ride Control LLC is recalling more than 12,000 front strut mounts branded as Gabriel Ride Control or ArvinMeritor aftermarket equipment. 

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the strut mounts lack a weld joint between the bearing housing and the rate plate. The absence of the weld can allow the strut to come out of its mounting position under certain extreme driving conditions. This in turn can cause damage to surrounding vehicle components, increasing the risk of a crash. 

The aftermarket strut mounts involved in the recall have been used as replacement equipment for 2000-2002 and 1988-1997 Toyota Corollas, 1986-1993 Toyota Celicas, 1993-1999 Nissan Altimas, 1990-1991 Lexus ES250s and 1997-1998 Chevrolet Prizms. 

The recall pertains solely to aftermarket parts and has no relation to any original equipment installed on these vehicles by General Motors, Nissan or Toyota. 

Ride Control will notify owners of record and replace the affected parts free of charge. The safety recall will begin in March. 

Ride Control can be reached at (248) 458-1396.