On certain vehicles, the steering gear may have been assembled with an incorrect recirculating ball spacer which could allow the recirculating balls to escape from the ball circuit, resulting in a loss of steering. The operator may notice higher required steering wheel inputs, or the need for more steering wheel adjustments while driving in a straight line in combination with metallic cracking noises prior to a loss of steering. Loss of steering control could result in a vehicle crash causing injury or death. Correction: Dealers will inspect and, if required, replace the steering gear assembly.