RoadVitals

2006 Thomas Built Buses Minotour Recalls

Safety recall campaigns filed with NHTSA that cover this model year

Recalls apply to specific vehicles, not to every vehicle of a model year. Check your VIN with NHTSA or your manufacturer's dealer to confirm whether a recall affects your vehicle.

Check a VIN on NHTSA.gov
Recall campaignsA safety recall is issued when a manufacturer or NHTSA determines that a vehicle has a safety-related defect or does not comply with a federal motor vehicle safety standard. Recall repairs are free. Whether a specific vehicle is covered depends on its VIN — a recall listed for a model year does not necessarily apply to every vehicle of that year.
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Newest Mar 5, 2019
Carrying an NHTSA advisoryCampaigns where NHTSA told owners not to drive the vehicle, or to park it outside, until the repair is done.
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Open investigationsNHTSA opens an investigation to examine whether a safety defect may exist. An open investigation is not a determination that a defect exists, and many investigations close without a recall. Investigations can, however, lead to one.
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2 investigations on file

Recall campaigns

22 campaigns cover this model year — what the defect is, what it could cause, and what the remedy is

19V170000

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Mar 5, 2019
410 units potentially affected
The defect: Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2003-2019 Thomas Built Buses Minotour school buses built on a Ford chassis equipped with a specific wheelchair lift option. The wheelchair lift can be operated without the parking brake being engaged after they key is turned off.
The risk: When the vehicle is in neutral with the ignition and the parking brake off, the vehicle may move. Using the wheelchair lift during this time can increase the risk of injury.
The remedy: DTNA has notified owners, and dealers will modify the wheelchair lift wiring harness, free of charge. DTNA issued owners an interim notification on April 10, 2019. The recall began December 20, 2019. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-811.
Daimler Trucks North America LLCManufacturer number FL-811View on NHTSA.gov
18V330000

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

May 17, 2018
6 units potentially affected
The defect: Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2003-2006 Thomas Built Buses Minotour transit buses built on a Ford chassis and equipped with an optional wheelchair lift. The wheelchair lift may be allowed to operate when the vehicle is in neutral or drive, due to missing relay in the interlock wiring harness.
The risk: If the vehicle can be moved while the wheelchair lift is being used, there is an increased the risk of injury.
The remedy: DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the wheelchair lift wiring, correcting it as necessary, free of charge. Daimler issued an interim notification to owners on June 19, 2018. The recall began November 15, 2019. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-770.
Daimler Trucks North America LLCManufacturer number FL-770View on NHTSA.gov
18V301000

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

May 8, 2018
1,688 units potentially affected
The defect: Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2002-2018 Thomas Built Buses Minotour school buses built on a Ford chassis and equipped with an optional wheelchair lift. The wheelchair lift may be allowed to operate when the vehicle is in neutral or drive, due to missing relay in the interlock wiring harness.
The risk: If the vehicle can be moved while the wheelchair lift is being used, there is an increased the risk of injury.
The remedy: DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the wheelchair lift wiring, correcting it as necessary, free of charge. Daimler issued an interim notification to owners on June 19, 2018. The recall began November 15, 2019. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-770.
Daimler Trucks North America LLCManufacturer number FL-770View on NHTSA.gov
18V083000

EQUIPMENT

Jan 30, 2018
606 units potentially affected
The defect: Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2002-2017 Thomas Built Buses Saf-T-Liner C2, Saf-T-Liner HDX, FS65, and Minotour school buses, equipped with Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. These extinguishers may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or requiring excessive force to activate the extinguisher. Additionally, in certain models, the nozzle may detach from the valve assembly with enough force that it could cause injury and also render the product inoperable. For a full list of the affected fire extinguisher models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17E062-5427.pdf
The risk: In the event of a fire, if the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury.
The remedy: DTNA will notify owners instructing them to contact Kidde for a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin March 30, 2018. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712 or Kidde customer service at 1-855-262-3540 or online at www.kidde.com and click on "Product Safety Recall" for more information. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-759.
Daimler Trucks North America LLCManufacturer number FL-759View on NHTSA.gov
15V565000

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Sep 4, 2015
4,334 units potentially affected
The defect: Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain model year 2006-2015 Thomas Built Buses FS-65, Saf-T-Liner C2, Saf-T-Liner EF, Saf-T-Liner EFX, Saf-T-Liner HDX, and Minotour DRW school buses manufactured January 3, 2006, to August 1, 2014, and equipped with certain Ricon model S2005, S2010, S5005, S5010, S5505, S5510 wheelchair lifts. The affected lifts are equipped with folding link arms that may have pivot holes that are too big, allowing the bearings to move out of position.
The risk: If the bearings move out of position, the stowed platform may have excessive movement resulting in failure of the platform mounting. This failure could cause the wheel chair lift platform to fall out of the vehicle when the doors are opened, increasing the risk of injury for the lift operator.
The remedy: DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the link arms for damage or for displaced bearings. The platform will be inspected for cracks. Any damaged parts will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began onNovember 2, 2015. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-745-8000. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-686.
Daimler Trucks North America LLCManufacturer number FL-686View on NHTSA.gov
15V564000

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Sep 4, 2015
52 units potentially affected
The defect: Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain model year 2006-2015 Thomas Built Buses Saf-T-Liner HDX, Saf-T-Liner EF, Saf-T-Liner EFX, and Minotour DRW transit buses manufactured January 3, 2006, to August 1, 2014, and equipped with certain Ricon model S2005, S2010, S5005, S5010, S5505, S5510 wheelchair lifts. The affected lifts are equipped with folding link arms that may have pivot holes that are too big, allowing the bearings to move out of position.
The risk: If the bearings move out of position, the stowed platform may have excessive movement resulting in failure of the platform mounting. This failure could cause the wheel chair lift platform to fall out of the vehicle when the doors are opened, increasing the risk of injury for the lift operator.
The remedy: DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the link arms for damage or for displaced bearings. The platform will be inspected for cracks. Any damaged parts will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began on November 2, 2015. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-745-8000. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-686.
Daimler Trucks North America LLCManufacturer number FL-686View on NHTSA.gov
11V223000

EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

Apr 6, 2011
64 units potentially affected
The defect: DAIMLER TRUCKS (DTNA) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006 THROUGH 2011 SAF-T-LINER HDX, MVP-EF, AND MINOTOR NON SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM JANUARY 2, 2006, THROUGH JANUARY 31, 2011, EQUIPPED WITH CARRIER GENV EM-1 EVAPORATOR UNITS. DUE TO TIME, TEMPERATURE, AND/OR VIBRATION, THE FUSE MAY LOOSEN IN THE FUSE HOLDER RESULTING IN HIGH RESISTANCE AND ARCING.
The risk: IF SUFFICIENT ARCING OCCURS, THE FUSE HOLDER MAY MELT, AND A VEHICLE FIRE MAY OCCUR.
The remedy: DTNA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND PROVIDE INFORMATION ON HOW TO OBTAIN THE RETROFIT KIT FROM CARRIER ALONG WITH REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 20, 2011. (SEE CARRIER'S RECALL CAMPAIGN 11E-003.) OWNERS MAY CONTACT CARRIER AT 1-800-793-4741 OR DTNA AT 1-800-547-0712.
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICAManufacturer number FL-604View on NHTSA.gov
11V222000

EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

Apr 6, 2011
6,831 units potentially affected
The defect: DAIMLER TRUCKS (DTNA) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006 THROUGH 2011 SAF-T-LINER C2, SAF-T-LINER HDX, MVP-EF, FS-65, AND MINOTOR SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM JANUARY 2, 2006, THROUGH JANUARY 31, 2011, EQUIPPED WITH CARRIER GENV EM-1 EVAPORATOR UNITS. DUE TO TIME, TEMPERATURE, AND/OR VIBRATION, THE FUSE MAY LOOSEN IN THE FUSE HOLDER RESULTING IN HIGH RESISTANCE AND ARCING.
The risk: IF SUFFICIENT ARCING OCCURS, THE FUSE HOLDER MAY MELT, AND A VEHICLE FIRE MAY OCCUR.
The remedy: DTNA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND PROVIDE INFORMATION ON HOW TO OBTAIN THE RETROFIT KIT FROM CARRIER ALONG WITH REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 20, 2011. (SEE CARRIER'S RECALL CAMPAIGN 11E-003.) OWNERS MAY CONTACT CARRIER AT 1-800-793-4741 OR DTNA AT 1-800-547-0712.
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICAManufacturer number FL-604View on NHTSA.gov
11V201000

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

Mar 31, 2011
6,360 units potentially affected
The defect: CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2000 THROUGH 2009 THOMAS BUILT SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 17, 2000, THROUGH DECEMBER 21, 2009, WERE EQUIPPED WITH AN INCORRECT TIRE LOAD CERTIFICATION LABEL. THE CERTIFICATION LABELS LIST "D" LOAD RANGE TIRES WITH A RECOMMENDED COLD TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE GREATER THAN 65 PSI. THE BUSES ARE EQUIPPED WITH LOAD RANGE "E" TIRES THAT REQUIRE A HIGHER MINIMUM TIRE PRESSURE. ACCORDINGLY, THESE BUSES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 120, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS FOR MOTOR VEHICLES OTHER THAN PASSENGER CARS."
The risk: INCORRECT TIRE INFORMATION MAY LEAD TO VEHICLE OVERLOADING THAT CAN RESULT IN A TIRE FAILURE WHICH MAY LEAD TO A VEHICLE CRASH.
The remedy: DTNA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE INCORRECT LABEL WITH A CORRECT LABEL FREE OF CHARGE OR, IF THE OWNER WISHES, THEY MAY REPLACE THE LABEL THEMSELVES. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT DTNA AT 1-800-547-0712 OR THOMAS BUILT AT 1-336-889-4871 TO OBTAIN THE LABEL IF THEY WISH TO AFFIX IT THEMSELVES. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT MAY 28, 2011.
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICAManufacturer number FL-601View on NHTSA.gov
11V202000

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

Mar 30, 2011
35 units potentially affected
The defect: CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2000, 2002 THROUGH 2006, AND 2009 THOMAS BUILT MINOTOUR NON SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 17, 2000, THROUGH JANUARY 5, 2001, WERE EQUIPPED WITH AN INCORRECT TIRE LOAD CERTIFICATION LABEL. THE CERTIFICATION LABELS LIST "D" LOAD RANGE TIRES WITH A RECOMMENDED COLD TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE GREATER THAN 65 PSI. THE BUSES ARE EQUIPPED WITH LOAD RANGE "E" TIRES THAT REQUIRE A HIGHER MINIMUM TIRE PRESSURE. ACCORDINGLY, THESE BUSES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 120, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS FOR MOTOR VEHICLES OTHER THAN PASSENGER CARS."
The risk: INCORRECT TIRE INFORMATION MAY LEAD TO VEHICLE OVERLOADING THAT CAN RESULT IN A TIRE FAILURE WHICH MAY LEAD TO A VEHICLE CRASH.
The remedy: DTNA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE INCORRECT LABEL WITH A CORRECT LABEL FREE OF CHARGE OR, IF THE OWNER WISHES, THEY MAY REPLACE THE LABEL THEMSELVES. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT DTNA AT 1-800-547-0712 OR THOMAS BUILT AT 1-336-889-4871 TO OBTAIN THE LABEL IF THEY WISH TO AFFIX IT THEMSELVES. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT MAY 28, 2011.
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICAManufacturer number FL-601View on NHTSA.gov
11V204000

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

Mar 30, 2011
526 units potentially affected
The defect: CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2000-2003, 2005 AND 2006 THOMAS BUILT MINOTOUR SCHOOL BUSES BUILT ON FORD AND GM CHASSIS FROM APRIL 17, 2000, THROUGH AUGUST 29, 2008. THESE BUSES WERE EQUIPPED WITH AN INCORRECT TIRE LOAD CERTIFICATION LABEL. THE CERTIFICATION LABELS LIST "D" LOAD RANGE TIRES WITH A RECOMMENDED COLD TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE GREATER THAN 65 PSI. THE BUSES ARE EQUIPPED WITH LOAD RANGE "E" TIRES THAT REQUIRE A HIGHER MINIMUM TIRE PRESSURE. ACCORDINGLY, THESE BUSES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS."
The risk: INCORRECT TIRE INFORMATION MAY LEAD TO VEHICLE OVERLOADING THAT CAN RESULT IN A TIRE FAILURE WHICH MAY LEAD TO A VEHICLE CRASH.
The remedy: DTNA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE INCORRECT LABEL WITH A CORRECT LABEL FREE OF CHARGE OR, IF THE OWNER WISHES, THEY MAY REPLACE THE LABEL THEMSELVES. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT DTNA AT 1-800-547-0712 OR THOMAS BUILT AT 1-336-889-4871 TO OBTAIN THE LABEL IF THEY WISH TO AFFIX IT THEMSELVES. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 24, 2011.
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICAManufacturer number FL-602View on NHTSA.gov
10V394000

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY:CABLES

Sep 2, 2010
14 units potentially affected
The defect: DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004 THROUGH 2010 MINOTOUR NON SCHOOL BUSES BUILT ON FORD CHASSIS MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 6, 2004 THROUGH FEBRUARY 2, 2010. ON AFFECTED VEHICLES, MAIN BODY POWER CABLES WERE ROUTED IN THE AREA OF AN UNPROTECTED EDGE ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE INNER-FENDER. UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS A POWER CABLE MAY CONTACT THE SHARP EDGE. IF UNDETECTED, CONTINUED CONTACT COULD WEAR THROUGH THE POWER CABLE'S INSULATION POTENTIALLY RESULTING IN A SHORT CIRCUIT.
The risk: A SHORT CIRCUITED POWER CABLE COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE AND INJURY TO VEHICLE OCCUPANTS.
The remedy: DAIMLER TRUCKS WILL INSPECT AND REROUTE AND/OR REPLACE AS NEEDED. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE NOVEMBER 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-547-0712.
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICAView on NHTSA.gov
10V393000

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY:CABLES

Sep 2, 2010
4,179 units potentially affected
The defect: DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004 THROUGH 2010 SCHOOL BUSES BUILT ON FORD CHASSIS MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 6, 2004 THROUGH FEBRUARY 2, 2010. ON AFFECTED VEHICLES, MAIN BODY POWER CABLES WERE ROUTED IN THE AREA OF AN UNPROTECTED EDGE ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE INNER-FENDER. UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS A POWER CABLE MAY CONTACT THE SHARP EDGE. IF UNDETECTED, CONTINUED CONTACT COULD WEAR THROUGH THE POWER CABLE'S INSULATION POTENTIALLY RESULTING IN A SHORT CIRCUIT.
The risk: A SHORT CIRCUITED POWER CABLE COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE AND INJURY TO VEHICLE OCCUPANTS.
The remedy: DAIMLER TRUCKS WILL INSPECT AND REROUTE AND/OR REPLACE AS NEEDED. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE NOVEMBER 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-547-0712.
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICAView on NHTSA.gov
09V219000

VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR

Jun 12, 2009
216 units potentially affected
The defect: DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING 216 MODEL YEAR 2004 THROUGH 2009 THOMAS BUILT MINOTOUR SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM FEBRUARY 5, 2003 THROUGH JULY 3, 2008. VEHICLES WITH CERTAIN SEAT BACK AND WINDOW COMBINATIONS MAY BE CONFIGURED IN SUCH A WAY THAT THE EMERGENCY WINDOW RELEASE MECHANISM IS LOCATED OUTSIDE OF THE LOW-FORCE REGION WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 217, "BUS EMERGENCY EXISTS AND WINDOW RETENTION AND RELEASE."
The risk: IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY EVACUATION, IMPROPERLY LOCATED EMERGENCY EXIT RELEASE MECHANISMS MAY DELAY EVACUATION AND INCREASE THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY TO VEHICLE OCCUPANTS.
The remedy: DAIMLER TRUCKS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPAIR THE BUSES FREE OF CHARGE. REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED BY DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICA. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 17, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS CUSTOMER SUPPORT OFFICE AT 1-336-889-4871.
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICAManufacturer number FL-552View on NHTSA.gov
08V648000

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

Dec 9, 2008
2,590 units potentially affected
The defect: DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICA (DTNA) IS RECALLING 2,590 MY 2005 THROUGH 2009 THOMAS BUILT MINOTOUR SCHOOL BUSES WITH GVWR OF 10,000 POUNDS OR LESS, MANUFACTURED BETWEEN SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 AND NOVEMBER 26, 2008. THE TIRE PLACARD CONTAINS INCORRECT INFORMATION WHICH FAILS TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS.
The risk: INCORRECT INFORMATION ON THE TIRE PLACARD MAY LEAD TO TIRE OVERLOADING AND POSSIBLY CAUSE TIRE FAILURE WHICH MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
The remedy: NEW LABELS WILL BE SENT TO OWNERS FOR INSTALLATION. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT NOVEMBER 3, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DTNA AT 1-800-547-0712 OR THOMAS BUILT AT 1-336-889-4871.
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICAManufacturer number FL-540View on NHTSA.gov
08V430000

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Aug 25, 2008
1,419 units potentially affected
The defect: DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING 1,419 MY 2006 THROUGH 2008 THOMAS BUILT SCHOOL BUSES AND RECREATIONAL VEHICLE CHASSIS MANUFACTURED BETWEEN MARCH 7, 2005 AND MAY 27, 2008, EQUIPPED WITH RICON PLATFORM STYLE WHEELCHAIR LIFTS. THESE BUSES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 404, "PLATFORM LIFT INSTALLATIONS IN MOTOR VEHICLES." THE THRESHOLD WARNING SYSTEM MAY NOT DETECT THE PRESENCE OF A WHEELCHAIR OR MOBILITY AID USER IN A CERTAIN SPOT WITHIN THE DEFINED THRESHOLD AREA.
The risk: THE USER OF THE LIFT COULD BE INJURED SHOULD THE LIFT MOVE UNINTENTIONALLY.
The remedy: THOMAS BUILT IS WORKING WITH RICON TO CORRECT THE WHEELCHAIR LIFTS FREE OF CHARGE (PLEASE SEE 07E095). THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 26, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT RICON AT 1-818-267-3000 OR THOMAS BUILT 1-336-889-4871.
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICAManufacturer number FL-536View on NHTSA.gov
08V432000

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Aug 25, 2008
1,046 units potentially affected
The defect: DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING 2,250 MY 2006 AND 2007 THOMAS BUILT MINOTOUR, FS65, C2, HDX, AND MVP EF SCHOOL BUSES AND RECREATIONAL VEHICLE CHASSIS MANUFACTURED BETWEEN MARCH 9, 2005 AND FEBRUARY 23, 2007, EQUIPPED WITH RICON S OR K SERIES WHEELCHAIR LIFTS. THE ANTI-STOW INTERLOCK MAY NOT DETECT THE PRESENCE OF A WHEELCHAIR OR MOBILITY AID USER. THE PRESSURE SENSING SWITCH THAT DETECTS THE PRESENCE OF WEIGHT ON THE PLATFORM WAS NOT ADJUSTED TO THE NECESSARY SENSITIVITY LEVEL. THE LIFT COULD STOW EVEN THOUGH SOMEONE OR SOMETHING IS STILL ON THE LIFT WHICH FAILS TO COMPLY WITH FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 404, "PLATFORM LIFT INSTALLATIONS IN MOTOR VEHICLES."
The risk: A LIFT OCCUPANT CAN BE INJURED SHOULD THE LIFT BEGIN TO STOW UNINTENTIONALLY.
The remedy: DAIMLER TRUCKS IS WORKING WITH RICON TO CORRECT THE WHEELCHAIR LIFTS (PLEASE SEE 07E097). THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 26, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT RICON AT 1-800-322-2884 OR THOMAS BUILT AT 1-336-889-4871.
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICAManufacturer number FL-537View on NHTSA.gov
08V088000

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Feb 26, 2008
760 units potentially affected
The defect: DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING 760 MY 2003-2007 THOMAS BUILT SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JULY 6, 2005 AND JULY 19, 2006, EQUIPPED WITH BRAUN WHEELCHAIR LIFTS, MODELS NL, NCL, OR NVL. THE THRESHOLD WARNING SYSTEMS OF THE SUBJECT MODEL WHEELCHAIR LIFTS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 403, PLATFORM LIFT SYSTEMS FOR MOTOR VEHICLES.
The risk: SHOULD THE THRESHOLD WARNING SYSTEM FAIL TO OPERATE, THE LIFT USER CAN FALL FROM THE VEHICLE AND BE SERIOUSLY INJURED.
The remedy: DAIMLER TRUCKS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND PROVIDE A FREE REMEDY WHICH WILL BE PERFORMED BY THOMAS BUILT DEALERSHIPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 8, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT THOMAS BUILT AT 336-889-4871.
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICAManufacturer number FL-524View on NHTSA.gov
07V135000

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Mar 23, 2007
329 units potentially affected
The defect: CERTAIN MY 2006 AND 2007 THOMAS BUILT MINOTOUR, FS-65, C2, HDX, AND EF SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JANUARY 6 AND SEPTEMBER 6, 2006, EQUIPPED WITH RICON WHEELCHAIR PLATFORM LIFT MODELS S2003, S2005, S2010, S5503, S5505, S5510, K2003, K2005, K2010, K5503, K5505, K5510. THE LIFTS INTERLOCK SWITCH SYSTEM MAY NOT DETECT THE PRESENCE OF A PASSENGER (EITHER WHEELCHAIR OR STANDEE) ON THE PLATFORM LIFT WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 404, PLATFORM LIFT SYSTEMS FOR MOTOR VEHICLES.
The risk: THE DEFECT INVOLVES THE INTERLOCK SWITCH SYSTEM IN THE LIFT NOT DETECTING THE PRESENCE OF A PASSENGER (EITHER WHEELCHAIR OR STANDEE) ON THE RICON WHEELCHAIR PLATFORM LIFT. IN THE EVENT THIS CONDITION OCCURS DURING PASSENGER OPERATIONS IT MAY BE POSSIBLE FOR THE WHEELCHAIR TO TIP BACKWARDS ONTO THE PLATFORM WHEN THE PLATFORM WAS LOWERED. THIS COULD RESULT IN INJURY TO THE WHEELCHAIR'S OCCUPANT. ALSO, ANYONE STANDING ON THE PLATFORM COULD LOSE HIS OR HER BALANCE AND FALL, RESULTING IN INJURY.
The remedy: FREIGHTLINER WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND WILL REPAIR THE AFFECTED BUSES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON AUGUST 6, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FREIGHTLINER'S CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE CENTER AT 800-385-4357 OR CONTACT RICON AT 800-322-2884.
FREIGHTLINER LLCManufacturer number FL-492View on NHTSA.gov
07V040000

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Feb 13, 2007
398 units potentially affected
The defect: CERTAIN MY 2006 AND 2007 THOMAS BUILT BUSES MINOTOUR SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JULY 1, 2005, AND NOVEMBER 1, 2006, EQUIPPED WITH A WHEELCHAIR LIFT OPTION. PLASTIC ZIP TIES FOUND AROUND THE WHEELCHAIR LIFT INTERLOCK SWITCHES MAY PREVENT THE SWITCH FROM OPERATING, DEFEATING THE INTERLOCK FUNCTION ALLOWING THE VEHICLE TO BE DRIVEN WITH THE LIFT STILL DEPLOYED.
The risk: MOVING THE VEHICLE WITH THE LIFT DEPLOYED COULD CAUSE INJURY TO BYSTANDERS OR A CRASH.
The remedy: FREIGHTLINER WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND INSPECT THE BUSES. ANY PLASTIC TIES FOUND ON THE SWITCHES WILL BE REMOVED. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 21, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FREIGHTLINER CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE CENTER AT 800-385-4357.
FREIGHTLINER LLCManufacturer number FL-490View on NHTSA.gov
06V150000

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

May 3, 2006
45 units potentially affected
The defect: CERTAIN MY 2004-2007 THOMAS BUILT MINOTOUR, FS65, MVP-EF, AND HDX MODEL SCHOOL BUSES, MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JUNE 16 AND JULY 1, 2005, EQUIPPED WITH RICON WHEELCHAIR LIFTS. CRACKS IN THE LIFT ARMS MAY ALLOW THE MECHANISM TO TWIST DURING STOWAGE, PREVENTING CLOSURE OF THE SAFETY INTERLOCK SWITCHES.
The risk: IN THE EVENT THIS CONDITION OCCURS DURING PASSENGER OPERATIONS IT MAY NOT BE POSSIBLE TO CLOSE THE LIFT DOOR CAUSING THE VEHICLE INTERLOCKS TO REMAIN ENGAGED PREVENTING MOVEMENT OF THE VEHICLE OR THE ABILITY TO LOAD OR UNLOAD PASSENGERS WITH DISABILITIES FROM THE VEHICLE.
The remedy: RICON IS CONDUCTING THIS RECALL (PLEASE SEE 06E008000) AND WILL REPLACE THE TWO VERTICAL ARMS EVEN IF ONLY ONE ARM IS CRACKED FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON MAY 30, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT RICON CUSTOMER SUPPORT DEPT. AT 800-322-2884 OR OWNERS MAY CONTACT THOMAS BUS CUSTOMER SUPPORT OFFICE AT 336-889-4871.
FREIGHTLINER LLCManufacturer number FL-473View on NHTSA.gov
06V151000

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

May 2, 2006
87 units potentially affected
The defect: CERTAIN MY 2004-2007 THOMAS BUILT MINOTOUR SCHOOL AND COMMERCIAL BUSES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JULY 1, 2005, AND FEBRUARY 16, 2006. THE FLOOR STRUCTURE FOR THE WHEELCHAIR LIFT FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE STRENGTH REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 403, PLATFORM LIFT SYSTEMS FOR MOTOR VEHICLES.
The risk: THE WHEELCHAIR LIFT MAY BECOME UNSTABLE DURING OPERATION AND CAUSE INJURY TO PASSENGERS OR BYSTANDERS.
The remedy: THOMAS BUILT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPAIR THE LIFTS BY ADDING REINFORCEMENT FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 30, 2006. CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THOMAS BUS CUSTOMER SUPPORT OFFICE AT 336-889-4871.
FREIGHTLINER LLCManufacturer number FL-474View on NHTSA.gov

What a recall is

Safety recall
A safety recall is issued when a manufacturer or NHTSA determines that a vehicle has a safety-related defect or does not comply with a federal motor vehicle safety standard. Recall repairs are free. Whether a specific vehicle is covered depends on its VIN — a recall listed for a model year does not necessarily apply to every vehicle of that year.
Safety investigation
NHTSA opens an investigation to examine whether a safety defect may exist. An open investigation is not a determination that a defect exists, and many investigations close without a recall. Investigations can, however, lead to one.
Manufacturer communication
Manufacturers file copies of the bulletins they send to dealers with NHTSA. These often describe diagnostic or repair procedures for a known condition. They are not recalls: repairs described in a bulletin are usually only free if the vehicle is still under warranty or the manufacturer has extended coverage.

Safety investigations

NHTSA inquiries naming this vehicle. An investigation is not a finding of a defect, and it is not a recall.

PE06049ClosedPreliminary Evaluation

WHEELCHAIR LIFT MICRO-SWITCH DISABLED

Opened Nov 9, 2006
Closed Feb 27, 2007

THIS INVESTIGATION WAS OPENED AFTER ODI WAS CONTACTED BY A SCHOOL BUS FLEET ALLEGING THAT THEY HAD DISCOVERED NUMEROUS BUSES WITH ?ZIP-TIES? SECURING THE WHEELCHAIR DOOR MICRO-SWITCH IN THE CLOSED POSITION. THIS WOULD DEFEAT THE SAFETY INTERLOCK SYSTEM THAT PREVENTS THE BUS FROM BEING MOVED UNLESS THE WHEELCHAIR LIFT IS IN THE FULLY STOWED POSITION.ODI IS AWARE OF ONE ALLEGED CRASH RELATED TO THIS ISSUE. FREIGHTLINER STARTED USING THE PLASTIC ZIP-TIES ON THE 2006 MODEL CLASS A BUSES.THE ZIP-TIES WERE INSTALLED TO ENABLE THE BUS TO BE MOVED DOWN THE VEHICLE ASSEMBLY LINE WHILE THE LIFT WAS STILL IN THE DOWN POSITION.USE OF THE ZIP-TIES IS UNIQUE TO THE SUBJECT BUSES.FREIGHTLINER WILL CONDUCT A RECALL TO INSPECT ALL AFFECTED BUSES FOR ZIP-TIES THAT WERE NOT REMOVED BEFORE DELIVERY OF THE BUSES.ANY ZIP-TIES LOCATED DURING THE INSPECTION WILL BE REMOVED.THE RECALL ACTION TAKEN BY FREIGHTLINER RESOLVES THE ISSUES RAISED BY THIS INVESTIGATION.ACCORDINGLY, THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITYLed to recall 07V040000
PE06035ClosedPreliminary Evaluation

MISSING ELECT. PANEL MOUNTING HARDWARE

Opened Sep 5, 2006
Closed Dec 19, 2006

THIS INVESTIGATION WAS OPENED BASED ON A FLEET VISIT WHERE THE ODI INVESTIGATOR OBSERVED AN ELECTRICAL PANEL THAT WAS DISLOCATED FROM ITS MOUNTING BRACKETS.FURTHER EXAMINATION REVEALED THAT TWO MOUNTING SCREWS WERE MISSING. THE PANEL CONSISTS OF A SERIES OF ELECTRICAL BREAKERS AND TWO HEAVY GAUGE ELECTRICAL CABLES THAT SUPPLY POWER TO THE PANEL AND OTHER ELECTRICAL CIRCUITS.ODI'S CONCERN WAS THAT IF A FULL SEPARATION OCCURRED, THE PANEL COULD SHORT OUT AND POSSIBLY CAUSE A VEHICLE FIRE IF IT WERE TO COME IN CONTACT WITH THE SURROUNDING METAL ENCLOSURE. AN INSPECTION OF FIVE ADDITIONAL BUSES REVEALED TWO WITH THE SAME PROBLEM AND THIRTEEN WEREDISCLOSED BY THE DEALER AS BEING REPAIRED FOR LOOSE OR MISSING SCREWS. FREIGHTLINER CONTENDS THAT THEY HAVERECEIVED ONLY ONE OTHER COMPLAINT FROM A FLEET OTHER THAN THE ONE IDENTIFIED BY ODI. THERE ARE NO REPORTS OF FIRES, SHORT CIRCUITS ORELECTRICAL FAILURES.FREIGHTLINER WILL ISSUE A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN TO ALL DEALERS AND FLEETS ADDRESSING PROPER SECUREMENT OF THE SUBJECT PANEL.BASED ON FREIGHTLINER?S DATA, AN EWR REVIEW AND FURTHER FIELD REVIEWS INTO THIS ISSUE, A SAFETY RELATED DEFECT TREND HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED AT THIS TIME AND FURTHER USE OF AGENCY RESOURCES ARE CURRENTLY UNWARRANTED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT NO SAFTEY-RELATED DEFECT EXISTS.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION ON THE VEHICLES IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES. ODI WILL CONTINUE TO MONITOR FIELD REPORTS AND TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION IF INDICATED.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Elsewhere on this vehicle

Data sources