Model year record

2008 THOMAS BUILT BUSES SAF-T-Liner C2

27 recall campaigns on file for this model year. 6 owner complaints on file.

Recalls

Recall campaignNHTSA 18V083000

Equipment

Component
Equipment
Manufacturer
Daimler Trucks North America LLC
Vehicles affected
606
Reported to NHTSA
2018-01-30
Owners notified
2018-04-11

Defect description

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

Safety risk

In the event of a fire, if the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury.

Manufacturer 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.

Recall campaignNHTSA 17V454000

Equipment

Component
Equipment
Manufacturer
Daimler Trucks North America LLC
Vehicles affected
32
Reported to NHTSA
2017-07-17
Owners notified
2017-12-20

Defect description

Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2005-2018 Thomas Built Buses Saf-T-Liner C2 transit buses. In the event of a crash, the wheelchair pocket track anchorage may not adequately secure a the wheelchair.

Safety risk

In the event of a crash, an unsecured wheelchair may increase the risk of injury.

Manufacturer remedy

DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will add additional fasteners to the wheelchair pocket track to reinforce the anchorage, free of charge. An interim letter was mailed on September 13, 2017. The recall began on December 20, 2017. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-745-8000. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-743.

Recall campaignNHTSA 17V453000

Equipment

Component
Equipment
Manufacturer
Daimler Trucks North America LLC
Vehicles affected
1,462
Reported to NHTSA
2017-07-17
Owners notified
2017-12-20

Defect description

Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2005-2018 Thomas Built Buses Saf-T-Liner C2 school buses. In the event of a crash, the wheelchair pocket track anchorage may not adequately secure a the wheelchair.

Safety risk

In the event of a crash, an unsecured wheelchair may increase the risk of injury.

Manufacturer remedy

DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will add additional fasteners to the wheelchair pocket track to reinforce the anchorage, free of charge. An interim notice was sent to owners on September 13, 2017. The recall began on December 20, 2017. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-745-8000. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-743.

Recall campaignNHTSA 15V565000

Equipment adaptive/mobility

Component
Equipment adaptive/mobility
Manufacturer
Daimler Trucks North America LLC
Vehicles affected
4,334
Reported to NHTSA
2015-09-04
Owners notified
2015-11-02

Defect description

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.

Safety 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.

Manufacturer 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.

Recall campaignNHTSA 15V432000

Structure: body: door

Component
Structure: body: door
Manufacturer
Daimler Trucks North America LLC
Vehicles affected
103,038
Reported to NHTSA
2015-07-07
Owners notified
2015-12-24

Defect description

Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain model year 2002-2013 Thomas Built Buses Saf-T-Liner ER, 2001-2005 Saf-T-Liner Conventional, 2002-2013 Saf-T-Liner MVP-EF, 2013 Saf-T-Liner EFX, 2001-2008 Saf-T-Liner FS65, 2005-2013 Saf-T-Liner C2, 2003-2013 Saf-T-Liner HDX, 2002-2003 Saf-T-Liner MVP-ER, 2002 Vista, and 2002-2003 TL-960 school buses manufactured from February 5, 2001, through May 29, 2012. In the affected vehicles, the stem that connects the outside emergency door handle to the emergency door opening mechanism may corrode.

Safety risk

If the stem corrodes, the door handle could detach from the emergency door opening mechanism, delaying the opening of the door and the evacuation of the bus. In the event of an emergency, this may increase the risk of injury to the bus occupants.

Manufacturer remedy

DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will either replace the stems or protect them against corrosion, free of charge. Daimler issued an interim notification to owners on August 25, 2015. The recall began on December 24, 2015. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-745-8000. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-685.

Recall campaignNHTSA 15V425000

Structure: body: door

Component
Structure: body: door
Manufacturer
Daimler Trucks North America LLC
Vehicles affected
3,013
Reported to NHTSA
2015-07-06
Owners notified
2015-12-24

Defect description

Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain model year 2002-2004 Thomas Built Buses Saf-T-Liner ER, 2001-2005 Saf-T-Liner Conventional, 2002-2013 Saf-T-Liner MVP-EF, 2013 Saf-T-Liner EFX, 2001-2008 Saf-T-Liner FS65, 2005-2013 Saf-T-Liner C2, 2003-2013 Saf-T-Liner HDX, 2002-2003 Saf-T-Liner MVP-ER, 2002 Vista, and 2002-2003 TL-960 non-school buses. In the affected vehicles, the stem that connects the outside emergency door handle to the emergency door opening mechanism may corrode.

Safety risk

If the stem corrodes, the door handle could detach from the emergency door opening mechanism, delaying the opening of the door and the evacuation of the bus. In the event of an emergency, this may increase the risk of injury to the bus occupants.

Manufacturer remedy

DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will either replace the stems or protect them against corrosion, free of charge. An interim notice was mailed to owners on August 28, 2015. The recall began on December 24, 2015. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-745-8000. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-685.

Recall campaignNHTSA 12V225000

Equipment adaptive/mobility

Component
Equipment adaptive/mobility
Manufacturer
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICA
Vehicles affected
890
Reported to NHTSA
2012-05-17
Owners notified
2012-06-28

Defect description

DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICA (DTNA) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2007 THROUGH 2011 SAF-T-LINER EF, MINOTOUR, SAF-T-LINER C2, AND SAF-T-LINER HDX SCHOOL BUSES EQUIPPED WITH BRAUN CENTURY-2 AND VISTA-2 WHEELCHAIR LIFTS. OVER TIME, AND WITH FREQUENT USE, THE ROLL STOP LATCHES ON THE OUTER BARRIER MAY BECOME BENT OR MISALIGNED.

Safety risk

A WHEELCHAIR OCCUPANT MAY DEFEAT OR RIDE OVER THE INSUFFICIENTLY LATCHED ROLL STOP. IF THIS OCCURS WHEN THE LIFT PLATFORM IS IN AN ELEVATED POSITION, THE WHEELCHAIR’S OCCUPANT COULD FALL AND SUSTAIN INJURY.

Manufacturer remedy

DTNA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND THE REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED BY AUTHORIZED BRAUN DEALERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 28, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DTNA AT 1-800-547-0712.

Recall campaignNHTSA 12V226000

Equipment adaptive/mobility

Component
Equipment adaptive/mobility
Manufacturer
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICA
Vehicles affected
100
Reported to NHTSA
2012-05-17
Owners notified
2012-06-29

Defect description

DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICA (DTNA) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2007 THROUGH 2011 SAF-T-LINER EF, MINOTOUR, SAF-T-LINER C2, SAF-T-LINER HDX TRANSIT BUSES EQUIPPED WITH BRAUN CENTURY-2 AND VISTA-2 WHEELCHAIR LIFTS. OVER TIME, AND WITH FREQUENT USE, THE ROLL STOP LATCHES ON THE OUTER BARRIER MAY BECOME BENT OR MISALIGNED.

Safety risk

A WHEELCHAIR OCCUPANT MAY DEFEAT OR RIDE OVER THE INSUFFICIENTLY LATCHED ROLL STOP. IF THIS OCCURS WHEN THE LIFT PLATFORM IS IN AN ELEVATED POSITION, THE WHEELCHAIR’S OCCUPANT COULD FALL AND SUSTAIN INJURY.

Manufacturer remedy

DTNA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND THE REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED BY AUTHORIZED BRAUN DEALERS, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 28, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DTNA AT 1-800-547-0712.

Recall campaignNHTSA 11V505000

Service brakes, hydraulic

Component
Service brakes, hydraulic
Manufacturer
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICA
Vehicles affected
700
Reported to NHTSA
2011-10-18
Owners notified
2011-12-27

Defect description

DAIMLER TRUCKS (DTNA) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005 THROUGH 2009 THOMAS BUILT SAF-T-LINER C2 SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM MARCH 9, 2004, THROUGH JANUARY 2, 2008, EQUIPPED WITH CATERPILLAR C7 ENGINES, HYDRAULIC BRAKES, AND A FUEL WATER SEPARATOR. THE FUEL LINE GOING FROM THE FUEL WATER SEPARATOR TO THE ENGINE MAY RUB ON THE HYDRAULIC BRAKE LINES POTENTIALLY RESULTING IN BRAKE FLUID LEAK.

Safety risk

A BRAKE FLUID LEAK MAY REDUCE BRAKING PERFORMANCE INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Manufacturer remedy

DTNA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE VEHICLES TO ENSURE THAT THERE IS THE CORRECT CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE FUEL AND BRAKE LINES. DAMAGED LINES WILL BE REPLACED. REPAIRS WILL BE MADE BY DTNA AUTHORIZED SERVICE FACILITIES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 27, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DTNA AT 1-800-547-0712.

Recall campaignNHTSA 11V222000

Equipment: appliance: air conditioner

Component
Equipment: appliance: air conditioner
Manufacturer
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICA
Vehicles affected
6,831
Reported to NHTSA
2011-04-06
Owners notified
2011-05-20

Defect description

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.

Safety risk

IF SUFFICIENT ARCING OCCURS, THE FUSE HOLDER MAY MELT, AND A VEHICLE FIRE MAY OCCUR.

Manufacturer 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.

Recall campaignNHTSA 11V201000

Equipment: other: labels

Component
Equipment: other: labels
Manufacturer
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICA
Vehicles affected
6,360
Reported to NHTSA
2011-03-31
Owners notified
2011-05-17

Defect description

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."

Safety risk

INCORRECT TIRE INFORMATION MAY LEAD TO VEHICLE OVERLOADING THAT CAN RESULT IN A TIRE FAILURE WHICH MAY LEAD TO A VEHICLE CRASH.

Manufacturer 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.

Recall campaignNHTSA 11V172000

Engine and engine cooling

Component
Engine and engine cooling
Manufacturer
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICA
Vehicles affected
475
Reported to NHTSA
2011-03-15
Owners notified
2011-03-25

Defect description

DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 AND 2009 THOMAS BUILT SAF-T-LINER C2 AND SAF-T-LINER HDX SCHOOL BUSES AND FCCC B2 BUS CHASSIS USED IN SAF-T-LINER C2 SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM AUGUST 18, 2006, THROUGH JULY 7, 2010, EQUIPPED WITH EPA 2007 MBE 900 DETROIT DIESEL ENGINES. ENGINE SOFTWARE MAY NOT REACT PROPERLY TO CERTAIN AFTERMARKET TREATMENT DEVICE FAULT CODES. THE SOFTWARE MAY UNNECESSARILY SHUTDOWN A VEHICLE OR MAY FAIL TO SHUTDOWN A VEHICLE WITH AN AFTERMARKET DEVICE OVER-TEMP FAULT.

Safety risk

UNEXPECTED SHUTDOWN OF A VEHICLE MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH. OVERHEATING OF THE AFTERTREATMENT DEVICE WITHOUT ENGINE SHUTDOWN MAY RESULT IN A FIRE.

Manufacturer remedy

DAIMLER TRUCKS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED BY DETROIT DIESEL FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 25, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS AT 1-800-547-0712. THIS SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGN IS AN EXPANSION OF A PREVIOUS RECALL (PLEASE SEE 10V-468).

Recall campaignNHTSA 10V468000

Engine and engine cooling

Component
Engine and engine cooling
Manufacturer
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICA
Vehicles affected
2,687
Reported to NHTSA
2010-10-08
Owners notified
2010-12-30

Defect description

DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 THROUGH 2011 SAF-T-LINER C2 AND SAF-T-LINER HDX SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 5, 2006 THROUGH MAY 24, 2010, EQUIPPED WITH EPA 2007 MBE 900 DETROIT DIESEL ENGINES. ENGINE SOFTWARE MAY NOT REACT PROPERLY TO CERTAIN AFTERMARKET TREATMENT DEVICE FAULT CODES. THE SOFTWARE MAY UNNECESSARILY SHUTDOWN A VEHICLE OR MAY FAIL TO SHUTDOWN A VEHICLE WITH AN AFTERMARKET DEVICE OVER-TEMP FAULT.

Safety risk

UNEXPECTED SHUTDOWN OF A VEHICLE MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH. OVERHEATING OF THE AFTERTREATMENT DEVICE WITHOUT ENGINE SHUTDOWN MAY RESULT IN A FIRE.

Manufacturer remedy

DAIMLER TRUCKS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED BY DETROIT DIESEL FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 30, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS AT 1-800-547-0712.

Recall campaignNHTSA 10V340000

Engine and engine cooling

Component
Engine and engine cooling
Manufacturer
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICA
Vehicles affected
5,445
Reported to NHTSA
2010-07-27
Owners notified
2011-07-29

Defect description

DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2007 THROUGH 2011 FCCC B2 106 CH AND THOMAS BUILT SAF-T-LINER C2 AND HDX SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 5, 2006 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2010, EQUIPPED WITH SPECIFIC MBE900 EPA04 AND EPA07 MODEL ENGINES. THE INTAKE AIR GRID HEATER MAY SHORT CIRCUIT AND FAIL DUE TO EXCESSIVE INTERNAL TEMPERATURES.

Safety risk

A SHORT CIRCUITED GRID HEATER COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE AND INJURY TO VEHICLE OCCUPANTS.

Manufacturer remedy

DAIMLER TRUCKS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE BUSES FREE OF CHARGE. REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED BY DETROIT DIESEL CORPORATION AUTHORIZED REPAIR FACILITIES. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT JULY 29, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-547-0712.

Recall campaignNHTSA 10V177000

Exterior lighting: brake lights: switch

Component
Exterior lighting: brake lights: switch
Manufacturer
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICA
Vehicles affected
6,548
Reported to NHTSA
2010-04-30
Owners notified
2011-05-27

Defect description

DTNA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005 THROUGH 2011 THOMAS BUILT SAF-T-LINER C2 SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED BEGINNING JANUARY 19, 2005 THROUGH APRIL 16, 2010. THE STOP LAMPS MAY BE INTERMITTENT DURING LIGHT BRAKE APPLICATIONS.

Safety risk

THE STOP LAMPS MAY NOT PROPERLY INDICATE THAT THE SERVICE BRAKES ARE APPLIED WHICH MAY LEAD TO A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Manufacturer remedy

DTNA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED BY DTNA DEALERSHIPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DTNA AT 1-800-547-0712.

Recall campaignNHTSA 10V100000

Structure: body: door

Component
Structure: body: door
Manufacturer
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICA
Vehicles affected
9,588
Reported to NHTSA
2010-03-16
Owners notified
2010-05-17

Defect description

DTNA HAS NOTIFIED NHTSA ABOUT A DEFECT IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 THROUGH 2011 THOMAS BUILT SAF-T-LINER C2 SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 10, 2007, THROUGH JANUARY 8, 2010. THE REED SWITCH USED TO DETECT THE POSITION OF THE AIR OPERATED FRONT ENTRANCE DOOR MAY MALFUNCTION CAUSING WARNING LIGHTS AND THE CROSSING ARM TO OPERATE IMPROPERLY DURING STUDENT LOADING AND UNLOADING.

Safety risk

MALFUNCTIONING WARNING LIGHTS DURING THE LOADING AND UNLOADING PROCESS COULD PUT THE STUDENTS AT RISK OF INJURY.

Manufacturer remedy

DTNA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND THE REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED BY THOMAS BUILT BUSES DEALERSHIPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT MAY 10, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT THOMAS BUILT AT 1-336-889-4871.

Recall campaignNHTSA 09V458000

Suspension: rear

Component
Suspension: rear
Manufacturer
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICA
Vehicles affected
3,739
Reported to NHTSA
2009-12-01
Owners notified
2010-02-18

Defect description

DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 THROUGH 2011 THOMAS BUILT SAF-T-LINER C2 SCHOOL BUSES AND FCCC B2 CHASSIS MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 1, 2007 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 28, 2009. FASTENERS USED TO CONNECT THE REAR SUSPENSION SPRING TO THE SUSPENSION HANGER BRACKET MAY NOT HAVE BEEN TORQUED TO SPECIFICATION. UNDER TORQUED FASTENERS MAY BECOME LOOSE AND POTENTIALLY FALL OUT.

Safety risk

LOOSE OR MISSING FASTENERS MAY ALLOW THE REAR SUSPENSION TO BECOME MISALIGNED, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Manufacturer remedy

DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND ADJUST THE FASTENERS AS REQUIRED. DAMAGED FASTENERS WILL BE REPLACED. REPAIRS WILL BE MADE FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING FEBRUARY 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-547-0712.

Recall campaignNHTSA 09V461000

Service brakes, hydraulic: pedals and linkages

Component
Service brakes, hydraulic: pedals and linkages
Manufacturer
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICA
Vehicles affected
2,631
Reported to NHTSA
2009-12-01
Owners notified
2009-12-22

Defect description

DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006 THROUGH 2011 THOMAS BUILT SAF-T-LINER C2 SCHOOL BUSES BUILT ON FCCC B2 CHASSIS MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 15, 2004 THROUGH NOVEMBER 25, 2009, EQUIPPED WITH KONGSBERG AUTOMOTIVE ADJUSTABLE BRAKE PEDALS. THE ADJUSTABLE BRAKE PEDAL ARM MAY LOOSEN ALLOWING THE ARM TO ROTATE AROUND ITS SHAFT AND SWING IN FRONT OF THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL, REDUCING BRAKING FUNCTION.

Safety risk

A LOOSE BRAKE PEDAL INCREASES THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Manufacturer remedy

DAIMLER TRUCKS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 22, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS WARRANTY CLAIMS DEPARTMENT AT 1-800-547-0712.

Recall campaignNHTSA 09V460000

Service brakes, hydraulic

Component
Service brakes, hydraulic
Manufacturer
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICA
Vehicles affected
602
Reported to NHTSA
2009-12-01
Owners notified
2010-04-23

Defect description

DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 THROUGH 2010 THOMAS BUILT SAF-T-LINER C2 SCHOOL BUSES AND FCCC B2 CHASSIS MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 1, 2007 THROUGH AUGUST 10, 2009, EQUIPPED WITH CUMMINS ISB CM2150 J1939/1587 ENGINE CONTROL UNIT, BOSCH HYDRAULIC PIN-SLIDE FRONT BRAKES, AND WEBASTO 17K BTU COOLANT HEATER. THE FRONT RIGHT HAND CROSSOVER BRAKE LINE MAY HAVE BEEN SECURED USING SHORTER OFFSET THAN SPECIFIED CLAMPS POTENTIALLY ALLOWING THE BRAKE LINE TO RUB ON THE SURROUNDING COMPONENTS. THIS MAY LEAD TO A BRAKE FLUID LEAK.

Safety risk

CONTINUED CONTACT BETWEEN THE BRAKE LINE AND THE SURROUNDING COMPONENTS MAY LEAD TO A LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID AND REDUCE BRAKING PERFORMANCE POTENTIALLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Manufacturer remedy

DAIMLER TRUCKS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE UNITS AND CLAMPS WITH SHORTER OFFSET THAN SPECIFIED WILL BE REPLACED WITH LONGER OFFSET CLAMPS. ANY BRAKE LINES FOUND TO BE DAMAGED WILL BE REPLACED. REPAIRS WILL BE DONE FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 23, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-547-0712.

Recall campaignNHTSA 09V344000

Structure: body: door

Component
Structure: body: door
Manufacturer
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICA
Vehicles affected
15,123
Reported to NHTSA
2009-09-02
Owners notified
2010-04-23

Defect description

DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 THROUGH 2010 SCHOOL AND NON-SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 10, 2007 THROUGH AUGUST 31, 2009, EQUIPPED WITH AG2 ENTRANCE DOORS. THE ENTRANCE DOOR GLASS MAY BE INADEQUATELY BONDED TO THE DOOR FRAME AND MAY SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE.

Safety risk

SEPARATION OF THE DOOR GLASS WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN OPERATION COULD CREATE A ROAD HAZARD, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Manufacturer remedy

DAIMLER TRUCKS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND THE BUSES WILL BE REPAIRED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 23, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT THOMAS BUILT AT 1-336-889-4871.

Recall campaignNHTSA 09V010000

Structure: body: door: hinge and attachments

Component
Structure: body: door: hinge and attachments
Manufacturer
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICA
Vehicles affected
22,206
Reported to NHTSA
2009-01-08
Owners notified
2009-04-14

Defect description

DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING 22,206 THOMAS BUILT MY 2005 THROUGH 2010 SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 2004 THROUGH NOVEMBER 24, 2008. THE LOWER END OF THE FRONT ENTRANCE DOOR AFT ASSIST HANDRAIL MAY BE LOCATED TOO CLOSE TO THE STEP.

Safety risk

IT MAY BE POSSIBLE FOR ITEMS SUCH AS DRAWSTRINGS AND STRAPS TO BECOME CAUGHT ON THE HANDRAILS POTENTIALLY LEADING TO INJURY OR DEATH.

Manufacturer remedy

DAIMLER TRUCKS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED BY THOMAS BUILT BUSES DEALERSHIPS AND DIRECT WARRANTY CUSTOMER FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT MARCH 6, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-547-0712.

Recall campaignNHTSA 08V602000

Exterior lighting: brake lights

Component
Exterior lighting: brake lights
Manufacturer
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICA
Vehicles affected
15,686
Reported to NHTSA
2008-11-19
Owners notified
2009-03-18

Defect description

DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING 15,686 MY 2005 THROUGH 2009 FCCC AND THOMAS BUILT SCHOOL AND TRANSIT BUSES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN MARCH 2005 AND MAY 2008 EQUIPPED WITH A CERTAIN BRAKE LAMP AIR PRESSURE SWITCH. THE CONTACTS IN THE PRESSURE SWITCH FOR THE LOW CURRENT BRAKE LAMP SIGNAL TO THE CHASSIS ECU MAY HAVE BECOME CONTAMINATED BY SILICONE DURING ASSEMBLY CAUSING INSULATING DEPOSITS TO BUILD UP OVER TIME PREVENTING THE BRAKE LAMPS FROM OPERATING.

Safety risk

INOPERATIVE BRAKE LAMPS WOULD NOT PROVIDE A SIGNAL TO FOLLOWING DRIVERS THAT THE BRAKES ARE APPLIED AND A CRASH MAY OCCUR.

Manufacturer remedy

DAIMLER TRUCKS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE PRESSURE SWITCH FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT MARCH 18, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS AT 1-800-547-0712 OR THOMAS BUILT BUSES AT 1-336-889-4871.

Recall campaignNHTSA 08V087000

Structure: body: door: hinge and attachments

Component
Structure: body: door: hinge and attachments
Manufacturer
DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICA
Vehicles affected
243,435
Reported to NHTSA
2008-02-26
Owners notified
2008-08-18

Defect description

DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING 243,435 MY 1995-2008 THOMAS BUILT SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JANUARY 1994, AND MARCH 10, 2008. (ADDITIONAL BUSES HAVE BEEN ADDED TO THIS RECALL CAMPAIGN. PLEASE SEE SUPPLEMENTAL REPORT NO. 4) THE EMERGENCY EXIT DOOR HANDLE BEGINS CORRODING AROUND THE SECURING ROLL PIN AND SQUARE DRIVE MECHANISM CAUSING THE PROTECTIVE FINISH TO CHIP AND FLAKE. CONTINUED CORROSION AND PITTING WEAKENS THE HANDLE. HANDLES WEAKENED BY CORROSION MAY BREAK WHILE TRYING TO OPEN THE DOOR FROM THE EXTERIOR.

Safety risk

IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY, A PERSON ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE BUS MAY BREAK THE DOOR HANDLE TRYING TO OPEN THE EMERGENCY EXIT POTENTIALLY DELAYING EVACUATION AND INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY TO THE VEHICLE'S OCCUPANTS.

Manufacturer remedy

DAIMLER TRUCKS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND WILL REPLACE THE HANDLES WITH A MORE ROBUST HANDLE FREE OF CHARGE. REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED BY THOMAS BUILT BUSES DEALERSHIPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 18, 2008, AND NOTIFICATION FOR THE REVISED POPULATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT APRIL 29, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT THOMAS BUILT AT 336-889-4871.

Recall campaignNHTSA 07V459000

Structure

Component
Structure
Manufacturer
FREIGHTLINER LLC
Vehicles affected
3,581
Reported to NHTSA
2007-09-21
Owners notified
2007-12-04

Defect description

CERTAIN THOMAS BUILT SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN MARCH 8, 2006, AND AUGUST 10, 2007, EQUIPPED WITH ONE OR MORE "PRO LO ROOF HATCH" OPTION NUMBERS D107307001, D107307002, OR D107307003. RETROREFLECTIVE TAPE WAS NOT INSTALLED AROUND THE PERIMETER OF THE ROOF MOUNTED EMERGENCY EXIT HATCH. THESE BUSES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 217, BUS EMERGENCY EXITS AND WINDOW RETENTION AND RELEASE.

Safety risk

IMPROPERLY IDENTIFIED EMERGENCY EXITS MAY HINDER EVACUATION EFFORTS.

Manufacturer remedy

THOMAS BUILT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPAIR THE BUSES BY INSTALLING RETROREFLECTIVE TAPE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 4, 2007. OWNERS MAY CALL THOMAS BUILT AT 336-889-4871 OR CONTACT FREIGHTLINER AT 800-547-0712.

Recall campaignNHTSA 07V306000

Steering

Component
Steering
Manufacturer
FREIGHTLINER LLC
Vehicles affected
18,000
Reported to NHTSA
2007-07-18
Owners notified
2007-12-21

Defect description

FREIGHTLINER IS RECALLING CERTAIN SCHOOL BUS CHASSIS, HEAVY TRUCKS, VAN CHASSIS, RV MOTORHOME CHASSIS MANUFACTURED FROM JANUARY 5 TO MAY 17, 2007, EQUIPPED WITH AXLE ALLIANCE COMPANY (AAC) FRONT AXLES. DURING THE FRONT AXLE ASSEMBLY, THE FASTENERS THAT ATTACH THE STEERING ARM OR TIE ROD ARMS TO THE SPINDLE MAY BE OVER OR UNDER TIGHTENED.

Safety risk

INCORRECTLY TIGHTENED STEERING ARM FASTENERS MAY FATIGUE AND FRACTURE WHICH COULD CAUSE A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Manufacturer remedy

THOMAS BUILT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, INSPECT THE FASTENERS, AND REPLACE THE STEERING ARM IF NECESSARY. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 21, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FREIGHTLINER AT 1-800-547-0712.

Recall campaignNHTSA 07V302000

Service brakes, air: supply: check valve

Component
Service brakes, air: supply: check valve
Manufacturer
FREIGHTLINER LLC
Vehicles affected
75,000
Reported to NHTSA
2007-07-16
Owners notified
2008-01-11

Defect description

CERTAIN FREIGHTLINER SCHOOL BUS CHASSIS, HEAVY TRUCKS, AND THOMAS BUILT SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JULY 2002 AND JULY 3, 2007, EQUIPPED WITH BENDIX SR-7 SPRING BRAKE CONTROL VALVES. THE PARKER SCV BRASS 90 DEGREE SINGLE CHECK VALVES (SCV) WHICH ATTACH TO THE SUPPLY PORT OF A BENDIX SR-7 SPRING BRAKE MODULATING VALVE CAN BREAK APART. PIECES OF THE PARKER SCV CAN BECOME LODGED INSIDE THE SR-7 SPRING BRAKE MODULATING VALVE, POTENTIALLY CAUSING EITHER LEAKAGE OUT OF THE SR-7 VALVE OR PREVENTING AIR FROM PROPERLY EXHAUSTING FROM THE SR-7 VALVE. ALSO, DUE TO A MANUFACTURING DEFECT IN THE INTERNAL RUBBER CHECK VALVE INSIDE THE SR-7 SPRING BRAKE MODULATING VALVES, THE VALVES CAN BECOME DEFORMED AND NOT SEAT PROPERLY.

Safety risk

THESE CONDITIONS COULD EITHER RESULT IN LEAKAGE AND CAUSE A DELAY IN THE APPLICATION OF THE SPRING BRAKE WITHOUT WARNING OR POSSIBLY LEAD TO UNINTENDED VEHICLE ROLLAWAY OR BRAKE DRAG WHICH COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH, PERSONAL INJURY, OR DEATH.

Manufacturer remedy

FREIGHTLINER WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPAIR THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 11, 2008 TO FREIGHTLINER, STERLING, AND FREIGHTLINER CUSTOM CHASSIS OWNERS; TO THOMAS BUILT BUS OWNERS ON FEBRUARY 1, 2008. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FREIGHTLINER AT 1-800-547-0712.

Recall campaignNHTSA 07V212000

Exterior lighting

Component
Exterior lighting
Manufacturer
FREIGHTLINER LLC
Vehicles affected
9,970
Reported to NHTSA
2007-05-18
Owners notified
2008-01-21

Defect description

CERTAIN 2005 THROUGH 2008 THOMAS BUILT SAF-T-LINER C2 SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM DECEMBER 1, 2003 TO MAY 18, 2007. THE EXTERNAL WARNING LIGHTS MAY STOP FUNCTIONING UNEXPECTEDLY IF THE FRONT ENTRANCE DOOR CLOSES WITHOUT THE DRIVER'S INPUT.

Safety risk

FAILURE OF THE EXTERNAL WARNING LIGHTS TO REMAIN ON DURING THE LOADING OR UNLOADING PROCESS COULD POSSIBLY RESULT IN A STUDENT BEING STRUCK BY A PASSING MOTORIST WHILE BOARDING OR EXITING THE BUS.

Manufacturer remedy

FREIGHTLINER WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPAIR THE BUSES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 21, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT THOMAS BUILT AT 336-889-4871 OR CONTACT FREIGHTLINER AT 800-547-0712.

Owner complaints

A complaint is one person's report to a federal agency. It is not a finding.

ComponentComplaintsMedian mileage
Latches/locks/linkages: doors: latch1
Parking brake121,485 mi
Seats1
Service brakes, hydraulic125,792 mi
Structure: body1127,000 mi
Unknown or other1127,000 mi

The 2007 model has 6 times as many complaints as this one. The 2009 model has 3 times as many complaints as this one. These figures reflect raw complaint counts, not failure rates. Higher-selling model years naturally receive more complaints.

Safety recall repairs are provided free of charge by franchised dealers, regardless of vehicle age or mileage. This page displays aggregated data for the model year. To check recall status for a specific vehicle, search its VIN at nhtsa.gov.