45 recalls found. |
DEFECT #1 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BATTERY:CABLES
Posted on: 2010-02-25
Description
Blue bird has notified nhtsa about a defect in certain model year 2010 all american rear engine school buses manufactured between january 5, 2009 and january 18, 2010. The battery cables may have been improperly routed at the front bottom of the large battery compartment resulting in the battery cables potentially being pinched between the front bottom of the battery compartment box and the exhaust mounting bracket.
Consequence
This condition could result in a fire.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners and reroute improperly routed cables and secure and any pinched cables will be replaced free of charge. The safety recall began on february 26, 2010. Owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10rk.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov .
DEFECT #2 - STRUCTURE:BODY
Posted on: 2009-07-23
Description
Blue bird is recalling 35 model year 2010 all american school buses manufactured from may 13 through june 17, 2009. Insufficient rivets were installed in the rear headliner panel. These buses fail to conform with the joint strength requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 221, school bus body joint strength.
Consequence
Bus passengers may sustain injuries in the event of a vehicle crash.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners and repair the buses free of charge. The safety recall began on august 14, 2009. Owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-422-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign no. R09pl.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #3 - STRUCTURE:BODY
Posted on: 2010-02-23
Description
Blue bird has notified nhtsa about a noncompliance in certain model year 2010 all american rear engine school buses manufactured from august 27, 2009 through january 25, 2010. Adhesive required for interior rear bulkhead panels was omitted. The buses fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 221, school bus body joint strength.
Consequence
Without the required adhesive, there is an increased risk of injury to the bus occupants in the event of a crash.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners and dealers will repair the buses free of charge. The safety recall began on march 26, 2010. Owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10rm.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov .
DEFECT #4 - STEERING:COLUMN
Posted on: 2010-06-30
Description
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2010 all american school buses manufactured from may 13, 2009 through august 4, 2009 equipped with trw igen3 intermediate steering columns. The weld around the igen3 steering shaft tube that secures the spline tube to the intermediate tube may be mislocated (i.e., not fully over the seam created when the tubes are pressed together.)
Consequence
Mislocated welds may result in torsional and axial strength falling below acceptable levels. This condition could result in separation of the steering column, loss of steering control and a vehicle crash without warning.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners and the buses will be repaired free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin on or about september 30, 2010. Owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10sb.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #5 - SEATS
Posted on: 2010-06-30
Description
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2010 and 2011 all american and vision model school buses manufactured from march 25, 2009 through january 12, 2010. The driver's seat shock damper may break allowing the driver's seat to unexpectedly drop to the floor without warning.
Consequence
In the event this should occur while the bus is in operation, the driver may lose control of the vehicle, possibly resulting in a crash.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners and replace the seat shock as necessary. The safety recall began on august 20, 2010. Owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10sf.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #6 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Posted on: 2010-06-28
Description
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2010 all american and vision model school buses manufactured from may 23, 2007 through march 9, 2010, equipped with caterpillar c7 engines. The #5 and #6 fuel lines may crack at the fastening point to the common fuel rail and cause a fuel leak.
Consequence
A fuel leak, in the presence of an ignition source, can result in a vehicle fire.
Corrective Action
Blue bird is working with caterpiller to notify owners and repairs will be performed by authorized caterpillar dealers free of charge. Owners may contact caterpillar toll-free at 1-800-447-4986 or blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10rz.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #7 - EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE
Posted on: 2010-04-06
Description
Blue bird has notified nhtsa about a defect in certain model year 2008 through 2011 all american, conventional, and micro bird school buses manufactured from december 13, 2007 through january 18, 2010 equipped with ricon model s or k series public use wheelchair lifts. The restraint belt on these lifts was designed to prevent the lift from moving, unless the tongue of the belt is fully engaged and latched in the buckle. Ricon has discovered, however, that it is possible for the operator to insert the belt tongue into the buckle without fully engaging the latching mechanism. In this case, the restraint belt would appear to be latched, and the operator could run the lift. If the restraint belt tongue is not fully engaged into the restraint belt buckle, and latched, the lift may operate with an occupant on the platform.
Consequence
The user of the lift could be injured should the lift move without the restraint belt properly buckled.
Corrective Action
Blue bird is working with ricon and ricon will be handling the remedy for this campaign. Please see ricon's defect report 09e-060. Ricon will provide customers with a warning decal and a dvd-based training aid. The safety recall began on april 27, 2010. Owners may contact ricon at 1-818-267-3000 or blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10rt.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #8 - EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE
Posted on: 2010-04-06
Description
Blue bird has notified nhtsa about a defect in certain model year 2008 through 2010 all american, conventional, and micro bird transi buses manufactured from december 16, 2007 through december 21, 2009 equipped with ricon model s or k series public use wheelchair lifts. The restraint belt on these lifts was designed to prevent the lift from moving, unless the tongue of the belt is fully engaged and latched in the buckle. Ricon has discovered, however, that it is possible for the operator to insert the belt tongue into the buckle without fully engaging the latching mechanism. In this case, the restraint belt would appear to be latched, and the operator could run the lift. If the restraint belt tongue is not fully engaged into the restraint belt buckle, and latched, the lift may operate with an occupant on the platform.
Consequence
The user of the lift could be injured should the lift move without the restraint belt properly buckled.
Corrective Action
Blue bird is working with ricon and ricon will be handling the remedy for this campaign. Please see ricon's defect report 09e-060. Ricon will provide customers with a warning decal and a dvd-based training aid. The safety recall began on april 27, 2010. Owners may contact ricon at 1-818-267-3000 or blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10rt.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #9 - SEATS
Posted on: 2010-06-30
Description
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2010 and 2011 all american model non school buses manufactured from march 25, 2009 through january 12, 2010. The driver's seat shock damper may break allowing the driver's seat to unexpectedly drop to the floor without warning.
Consequence
In the event this should occur while the bus is in operation, the driver may lose control of the vehicle, possibly resulting in a crash.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners and replace the seat shock as necessary. The safety recall began on august 16, 2010. Owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10sf.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #10 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Posted on: 2010-06-28
Description
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2010 all american, vision, and excel 102 model non school buses manufactured from may 17, 2007 through november 13, 2008, equipped with caterpillar c7 engines. The #5 and #6 fuel lines may crack at the fastening point to the common fuel rail and cause a fuel leak.
Consequence
A fuel leak, in the presence of an ignition source, can result in a vehicle fire.
Corrective Action
Blue bird is working with caterpillar to notify owners and repairs will be performed by authorized caterpillar dealers free of charge. The safety recall began on september 9, 2010. Owners may contact caterpillar toll-free at 1-800-447-4986 or blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10rz.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #11 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Posted on: 2010-08-20
Description
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2007 through 2010 all american non school buses manufactured from july 16, 2006 through august 3, 2010 equipped with cummins isb-02, isb-07, and isb-10 engines. An incorrect combination of flat washer and serrated nut was installed on the bolt that secures the starter cable retaining clamp to its attaching bracket at the front of the engine above the engine cooling fan. The flat washer prevents the serrated nut from locking against the attaching bracket. Over time, the serrated nut may back off allowing the starter cable to fall and contact the fan hub while in operation.
Consequence
If the starter cable contacts the fan hub while the fan hub is in operation, the cable covering may abrade which could result in a direct short. A short could potentially result in a vehicle fire.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners and repair the buses free of charge. The safety recall began on september 24, 2010. Owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10sl.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov .
DEFECT #12 - SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:SUPPLY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Posted on: 2009-07-23
Description
Blue bird is recalling 1,709 model year 2009 and 2010 all american front engine school buses manufactured from february 27, 2007 through july 2, 2009, equipped with 07 engines, air brakes and spring suspensions. When the bus is loaded with passengers, the springs compress which could allow the air brake hose to contact the drive line.
Consequence
Repeated contact of the air brake hose on the drive line may cause the air brake hose to rupture reducing the braking capacity which could result in a vehicle crash.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners and repair the buses free of charge. The safety recall began on september 23, 2009. Owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-422-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign no. R09pr.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #13 - SEATS
Posted on: 2009-08-13
Description
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2004 through 2010 all american, vision, micro bird, and conventional school buses manufactured between january 30, 2003 and may 7, 2009. Incorrect offset leg barrier pads or 2/3 seat back pads may have been installed. Buses with incorrect pads installed fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 222, school bus passenger seating and crash protection.
Consequence
In the event of a crash, there is an increased risk of injury to the seat occupant(s).
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners and the buses will be repaired free of charge. The safety recall began on september 18, 2009. Owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r09pm.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov .
DEFECT #14 - SEATS:BARRIERS
Posted on: 2011-10-14
Description
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2006 through 2012 all american, 2006 through 2011 vision, and 2006 conventional school buses manufactured between september 19, 2005, and may 3, 2011, equipped with 2-passenger seats installed forward of the 39 barrier. In the event of a crash, the barrier may make contact with the 2-passenger seat installed forward of the barrier. Accordingly, these buses fail to conform with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 222, school bus passenger seating and crash protection.
Consequence
The seat occupants may be seriously injured in the event of a crash.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will repair the buses free of charge. The safety recall began on january 18, 2012. Owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r11tq.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #15 - PARKING BRAKE
Posted on: 2011-07-11
Description
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2007 through 2011 all american school buses manufactured from september 22, 2006, through august 7, 2010, and equipped with optional park brake valve interlock feature. The optional park brake interlock valve may have been plumbed incorrectly which could result in inadvertent park brake application without prior warning.
Consequence
Inadvertent application of the park brake valve could cause a vehicle crash which could result in property damage, personal injury, or death.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners and dealers will repair the buses free of charge. All of the buses have been inspected and, if needed, repaired. Therefore, an owner notification letter will not be issued for this campaign. Owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r11tf.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #16 - STEERING:COLUMN
Posted on: 2010-06-30
Description
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2010 all american non school buses manufactured from may 19, 2009 through july 17, 2009 equipped with trw igen3 intermediate steering columns. The weld around the igen3 steering shaft tube that secures the spline tube to the intermediate tube may be mislocated (i.e., not fully over the seam created when the tubes are pressed together.)
Consequence
Mislocated welds may result in torsional and axial strength falling below acceptable levels. This condition could result in separation of the steering column, loss of steering control and a vehicle crash without warning.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners and the buses will be repaired free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin on or about august 31, 2010. Owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10sb.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #17 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Posted on: 2009-06-09
Description
Blue bird is recalling 2,203 model year 2003 through 2010 all american rear engine school buses equipped with optional plug style vandal locks manufactured from july 16, 2003 through april 10, 2009. The plug style vandal lock is not wired to inhibit the starter at the ignition switch when the vandal lock is in the locked position. These buses fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 217, bus emergency exits and window retention and release.
Consequence
The vehicles can be started and driven even when an owner may think they cannot.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners and repair the buses free of charge. The safety recall began on june 25, 2009. Owner may contact blue bird at 1-478-422-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign no. R09pe.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov .
DEFECT #18 - EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE
Posted on: 2010-04-06
Description
Blue bird has notified nhtsa about a defect in certain model year 2010 all american transit buses manufactured from september 23 through november 19, 2009 equipped with certain ricon s series and k series l-model wheelchair lifts. There is a problem in the software that controls the lift's up function. If the up switch is released before the floor level limit switch is activated, the lift may continue its upward travel for approximately 1 second before stopping. The continued upward travel may overrun the floor level cut off point.
Consequence
When the platform overruns the vehicle floor level and stops at an angle from 15-20 degrees, it is possible for a person in a wheelchair to tip over and for someone standing on the platform to fall, possibly resulting in injuries.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners and the repairs will be performed by authorized ricon dealers free of charge. Currently ricon is developing a software solution and is not available. Until the software solution is available, ricon will provide owners with a bulletin outlining proper wheelchair lift operation and will ship owners a dvd-based training aid to promote proper lift operation at no cost. The safety recall began on may 4, 2010. Owners may contact ricon at 1-818-267-3000 or blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10rv.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #19 - EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE
Posted on: 2010-04-06
Description
Blue bird has notified nhtsa about a defect in certain model year 2010 all american, conventional, and micro bird school buses manufactured from april 24 through november 14, 2009 equipped with certain ricon s series and k series l-model wheelchair lifts. There is a problem in the software that controls the lift's up function. If the up switch is released before the floor level limit switch is activated, the lift may continue its upward travel for approximately 1 second before stopping. The continued upward travel may overrun the floor level cut off point.
Consequence
When the platform overruns the vehicle floor level and stops at an angle from 15-20 degrees, it is possible for a person in a wheelchair to tip over and for someone standing on the platform to fall, possibly resulting in injuries.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners and the repairs will be performed by authorized ricon dealers free of charge. Currently ricon is developing a software solution and is not available. Until the software solution is available, ricon will provide owners with a bulletin outlining proper wheelchair lift operation and will ship owners a dvd-based training aid to promote proper lift operation at no cost. Please see ricon's safety recall 09e-061. The safety recall began on may 4, 2010. Owners may contact ricon at 1-818-267-3000 or blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10rv.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #20 - EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
Posted on: 2010-03-16
Description
Blue bird has notified nhtsa about a defect in certain model year 2010 all american school buses manufactured from may 13, 2009 through february 26, 2010. The wiring harness for the rear tag light may be of insufficient length resulting in the harness being routed improperly and exposing the connector to the environment which could cause the connector to corrode. Corrosion could cause a direct short in the tag light circuit. A short in the tag light wiring circuit, which includes the headlight low beam circuit, could cause sudden loss of headlight low beams.
Consequence
Loss of low beam headlights while the vehicle is in operation could impair the driver's vision and result in a crash.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners and repair the buses by installing the correct length harness free of charge. The safety recall began on april 14, 2010. Owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10rr.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov .
DEFECT #21 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Posted on: 2010-08-20
Description
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2007 through 2010 all american school buses manufactured from may 29, 2006 through august 7, 2010 equipped with cummins isb-02, isb-07, and isb-10 engines. An incorrect combination of flat washer and serrated nut was installed on the bolt that secures the starter cable retaining clamp to its attaching bracket at the front of the engine above the engine cooling fan. The flat washer prevents the serrated nut from locking against the attaching bracket. Over time, the serrated nut may back off allowing the starter cable to fall and contact the fan hub while in operation.
Consequence
If the starter cable contacts the fan hub while the fan hub is in operation, the cable covering may abrade which could result in a direct short. A short could potentially result in a vehicle fire.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners and repair the buses free of charge. The safety recall began on september 24, 2010. Owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10sl.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov .
DEFECT #22 - SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
Posted on: 2012-05-16
Description
Blue bird corporation (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2010 through 2013 all american and vision school buses manufactured from may 30, 2009, through april 4, 2012 and equipped with air brakes. The primary and secondary air brake lines may have been crossed at the brake treadle valve. Incorrect installation of the air brake lines at the air brake treadle valve fails to conform with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 121, air brake systems.
Consequence
In the event of a brake system problem, incorrect installation of the air brake lines could result in a reduction or complete loss of brake action, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will repair the buses free of charge. The recall began on may 23, 2012. Owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r12va.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov .
DEFECT #23 - SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
Posted on: 2012-05-16
Description
Blue bird corporation (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2010 through 2013 all american and vision non school buses manufactured from may 30, 2009, through april 4, 2012 and equipped with air brakes. The primary and secondary air brake lines may have been crossed at the brake treadle valve. Incorrect installation of the air brake lines at the air brake treadle valve fails to conform with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 121, air brake systems.
Consequence
In the event of a brake system problem, incorrect installation of the air brake lines could result in a reduction or complete loss of brake action, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will repair the buses free of charge. The recall began on may 23, , 2012. Owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r12va.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #24 - EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE
Posted on: 2012-04-09
Description
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2009 through 2011 all american, vision, and micro bird school buses equipped with braun vista-2 wheelchair lifts. Over time and with frequent use, the roll stop latches on the outer barrier may become bent or misaligned.
Consequence
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.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners, and the repairs will be performed by authorized braun dealers free of charge. The safety recall began on april 26, 2012. Owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r12tu.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #25 - FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
Posted on: 2011-12-02
Description
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2007 through 2012 all american rear engine school buses manufactured from april 12, 2006, through june 27, 2011, and equipped with a 60 gallon fuel tank. The tank return line can develop a leak that exceeds the amount of fuel spillage allowed. Accordingly, these buses fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 301, fuel system integrity.
Consequence
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can result in a fire.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will repair the buses free of charge. The safety recall began on march 9, 2012. Owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r11tr.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #26 - SEATS
Posted on: 2013-05-15
Description
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2010 through 2014 all american and vision model school buses manufactured from august 25, 2009, through march 19, 2013, and equipped with c. E. White inc. Flip seats models quasi static qsj11 (30, 36, 39 and 45), student safety seat sssj (30, 36, 39 and 45), or school bus seat sbj (30, 36, 39 and 45).
Consequence
When a flip seat is installed in front of another passenger seat, it is possible for the occupant of the rearward passenger seat to insert their toes and/or foot into the lower frame area of the flip seat. When a vehicle passenger occupies the flip seat, pushing the seat bottom downward to the horizontal position to sit in the seat, the occupant of the rearward seat could suffer a pinch point injury to their toes and/or foot.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will install a safety guard to prevent passengers from placing their toes or feet in the opening on the back of the subject flip seats, free of charge. The recall began on june 14, 2013. Owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242 for more information. Blue bird's number for this campaign is r13wf.
Notes
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #27 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Posted on: 2013-04-09
Description
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2011 all american rear engine school buses manufactured from august 9, 2007, through june 9, 2010, powered by cummins isb07 engines. In the affected vehicles, the grid heater power cable may be improperly routed, which could result in contact with the chassis frame rail.
Consequence
If the cable contacts the chassis frame rail it could potentially chafe against the frame thereby creating a direct short which could result in a fire.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the buses for proper positioning of the grid heater power cable. Any cables found contacting the chassis frame rail will have the grid heater cable repositioned to prevent further contact. Any damaged cables found will be replaced. The repairs will be made free of charge. The recall began on may 3, 2013. On august 15, 2014, blue bird sent out renoticiation letters to owners regarding the recall. Owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242. Blue bird's recall campaign number is r13wd.
Notes
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #28 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Posted on: 2013-04-09
Description
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2011 all american rear engine school buses manufactured from august 9, 2007, through june 9, 2010, powered by cummins isb07 engines. In the affected vehicles, the grid heater power cable may be improperly routed, which could result in contact with the chassis frame rail.
Consequence
If the cable contacts the chassis frame rail it could potentially chafe against the frame thereby creating a direct short which could result in a fire.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the buses for proper positioning of the grid heater power cable. Any cables found contacting the chassis frame rail will have the grid heater cable repositioned to prevent further contact. Any damaged cables found will be replaced. The repairs will be made free of charge. The recall began on may 3, 2013. On august 15, 2014, blue bird sent out renoticiation letters to owners regarding the recall. Owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242. Blue bird's recall campaign number is r13wd.
Notes
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #29 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Posted on: 2013-04-09
Description
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2011 all american rear engine, non-school, transit buses manufactured from august 9, 2007, through june 9, 2010, and powered by cummins isb07 engines. In the affected vehicles, the grid heater power cable may be improperly routed, which could result in contact with the chassis frame rail.
Consequence
If the cable contacts the chassis frame rail it could potentially chafe against the frame thereby creating a direct short which could result in a fire.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the buses for proper positioning of the grid heater power cable. Any cables found contacting the chassis frame rail will have the grid heater cable repositioned to prevent further contact. Any damaged cables found will be replaced. The repairs will be made free of charge. Notification to owners began on may 3, 2013. On august 15, 2014, blue bird sent out renoticiation letters to owners regarding the recall. Owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242. Blue bird's recall campaign number is r13wd.
Notes
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #30 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Posted on: 2013-04-09
Description
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2011 all american rear engine, non-school, transit buses manufactured from august 9, 2007, through june 9, 2010, and powered by cummins isb07 engines. In the affected vehicles, the grid heater power cable may be improperly routed, which could result in contact with the chassis frame rail.
Consequence
If the cable contacts the chassis frame rail it could potentially chafe against the frame thereby creating a direct short which could result in a fire.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the buses for proper positioning of the grid heater power cable. Any cables found contacting the chassis frame rail will have the grid heater cable repositioned to prevent further contact. Any damaged cables found will be replaced. The repairs will be made free of charge. Notification to owners began on may 3, 2013. On august 15, 2014, blue bird sent out renoticiation letters to owners regarding the recall. Owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242. Blue bird's recall campaign number is r13wd.
Notes
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #31 - STRUCTURE
Posted on: 2013-08-06
Description
Blue bird body company is recalling certain model year 2007-2014 all american and vision school buses manufactured march 10, 2006, through june 18, 2013; and equipped with optional transit sliding windows. Joint adhesive may not have been applied at the interior and exterior body window panel joints. Without the adhesive, these vehicles fail to conform to the standards of federal motor vehicle safety standard (fmvss) no. 221, school bus body joint strength.
Consequence
In the event of a vehicle crash, there is an increased risk that the window panels may separate and fall onto occupants causing injury.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will install additional rivets at the window panel joints, free of charge. The recall began on august 28, 2013. Owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-825-2021. Blue bird's recall number is r13wm.
Notes
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #32 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Posted on: 2014-03-04
Description
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2009-2015 all american rear engine school buses manufactured from december 8, 2008, through november 15, 2013, and equipped with certain cummins westport model isl g engines. Condensation in the intake manifold may freeze during cold weather conditions and interfere with the proper operation of the intake manifold pressure sensor.
Consequence
The improper operation of the sensor could induce elevated exhaust temperatures or flames from the exhaust pipe, increasing the risk of a vehicle fire or burn injury to a person near the exhaust pipe.
Corrective Action
Cummins and cummins westport will notify owners, and authorized cummins service facilities will upload a new ecm calibration, free of charge. The recall began on april 12, 2014. Customers may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242 or cummins inc. At 1-800-343-7357. Blue bird's number for this recall is r14xb.
Notes
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #33 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Posted on: 2014-04-25
Description
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2009-2015 all american rear engine non-school buses manufactured from june 23, 2010, through may 24, 2012, and equipped with certain cummins westport model isl g compressed natural gas engines. Condensation in the intake manifold may freeze during cold weather conditions and interfere with the proper operation of the intake manifold pressure sensor.
Consequence
The improper operation of the sensor could induce elevated exhaust temperatures or flames from the exhaust pipe, increasing the risk of a vehicle fire or burn injury to a person near the exhaust pipe.
Corrective Action
Cummins and cummins westport has notified owners, and authorized cummins service facilities will upload a new ecm calibration, free of charge. The recall began on april 12, 2014. Customers may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242 or cummins inc. At 1-800-343-7357. Blue bird's number for this recall is r14xb.
Notes
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #34 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:HOSE
Posted on: 2014-06-12
Description
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2008-2013 all american rear engine non-school buses manufactured may 9, 2007, to november 12, 2012. Due to the design of the thermostat, a heater hose may rupture which could result in hot coolant entering the passenger compartment.
Consequence
Hot coolant leaking into the passenger compartment increases the risk of injury to the passengers.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will replace the thermostat and change the passenger compartment heater supply hose, free of charge. The recall began on july 15, 2014. Owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242. Blue bird's number for this recall is r14xf.
Notes
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #35 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
Posted on: 2014-06-12
Description
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2008-2013 all american rear engine school buses manufactured april 3, 2007, to december 15, 2012. Due to the design of the thermostat, a heater hose may rupture which could result in hot coolant entering the passenger compartment.
Consequence
Hot coolant leaking into the passenger compartment increases the risk of injury to the passengers.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will replace the thermostat and change the passenger compartment heater supply hose, free of charge. The recall began on july 15, 2014. Owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242. Blue bird's number for this recall is r14xf.
Notes
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #36 - EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE
Posted on: 2014-08-19
Description
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2007-2015 all american and vision, 2007-2011 micro bird, and 2007-2008 conventional school buses equipped with certain model s2005, s2010, s5005, s5010, s5505, and s5510 wheelchair lifts manufactured by ricon corporation. The platform side plate of the affected wheelchair lifts may crack.
Consequence
If the platform side plates crack, the lift platform can separate from the lift and come to rest against the vehicle's lift door. When the doors are opened, the platform may fall out, increasing the risk of injury to the lift operator.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners to take buses to a ricon dealer or service center who will install supplemental platform support bumpers. Any platform that has already started cracking will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began on october 1, 2014. Owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242 or ricon customer service at 1-800-322-2884. Blue bird's number for this recall is r14xn.
Notes
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #37 - EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE
Posted on: 2014-08-19
Description
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2007-2015 all american, 2007-2010 micro bird, and 2007-2014 vision non-school buses equipped with certain model s2005, s2010, s5005, s5010, s5505, and s5510 wheelchair lifts manufactured by ricon corporation. The platform side plate of the affected wheelchair lifts may crack.
Consequence
If the platform side plates crack, the lift platform can separate from the lift and come to rest against the vehicle's lift door. When the doors are opened, the platform may fall out, increasing the risk of injury to the lift operator.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners to take buses to a ricon dealer or service center who will install supplemental platform support bumpers. Any platform that has already started cracking will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began on october 1, 2014. Owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242 or ricon customer service at 1-800-322-2884. Blue bird's number for this recall is r14xn.
Notes
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #38 - EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE
Posted on: 2015-11-04
Description
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2007-2015 all american and vision and 2007-2011 micro bird transit buses equipped with certain model s2005, s2010, s5005, s5010, s5505, and s5510 wheelchair lifts manufactured january 1, 2006, to august 25, 2014 by the ricon corporation. 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.
Consequence
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.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners, and ricon 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 december 1, 2015. Owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242, or ricon customer service at 1-800-322-2884.
Notes
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #39 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Posted on: 2015-05-19
Description
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2009-2016 all american rear engine non school buses manufactured december 7, 2008, to may 11, 2015, and equipped with certain cummins westport isl g engines. Excessive engine crankcase pressures may cause the 90-degree elbow of the vent tube assembly to detach from the crankcase ventilation breather, possibly allowing engine oil to come into contact with hot surfaces.
Consequence
If engine oil comes into contact with a hot surface, there is an increased risk of a fire.
Corrective Action
Cummins will notify owners on behalf of blue bird, and cummins service centers will administer the repairs which include securing the ends of the 90-degree elbow and reprogramming the electronic control module (ecm) with software that can adjust the engine output under misfire conditions to limit crankcase pressures. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on june 12, 2015. Owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242 or cummins inc. At 1-800-343-7357. Blue bird's number for this recall is r15ye-nsb.
Notes
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #40 - EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE
Posted on: 2015-11-04
Description
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2007-2015 all american, vision, 2007-2011 micro bird, and 2007-2008 conventional school buses, equipped with certain model s2005, s2010, s5005, s5010, s5505, and s5510 wheelchair lifts manufactured january 1, 2006, to august 25, 2014 by the ricon corporation. 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.
Consequence
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.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners, and ricon 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 december 1, 2015. Owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242, or ricon customer service at 1-800-322-2884.
Notes
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #41 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Posted on: 2015-05-19
Description
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2009-2016 all american rear engine school buses manufactured december 7, 2008, to may 11, 2015, and equipped with certain cummins westport isl g engines. Excessive engine crankcase pressures may cause the 90-degree elbow of the vent tube assembly to detach from the crankcase ventilation breather, possibly allowing engine oil to come into contact with hot surfaces.
Consequence
If engine oil comes into contact with a hot surface, there is an increased risk of a fire.
Corrective Action
Cummins will notify owners on behalf of blue bird, and cummins service centers will administer the repairs which include securing the ends of the 90-degree elbow and reprogramming the electronic control module (ecm) with software that can adjust the engine output under misfire conditions to limit crankcase pressures. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on june 12, 2015. Owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242 or cummins inc. At 1-800-343-7357. Blue bird's number for this recall is r15ye-sb.
Notes
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #42 - PARKING BRAKE
Posted on: 2020-04-28
Description
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain 2006-2021 vision and 2007-2013 all american school buses. The floor-mounted parking brake may fail to hold the vehicle stationary on an incline when the vehicle is loaded to its maximum weight, due to an insufficient application force. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard (fmvss) number 105, hydraulic and electric brake systems.
Consequence
A parking brake system that is set to an insufficient application force may result in an increased possibility of unintended vehicle movement, which increases the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the floor mounted park brake application force hand lever assembly and correct the application force, as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin june 24, 2020. Owners may contact blue bird customer service at 478-822-2242. Blue bird's number for this recall is r20ao-sb.
Notes
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #43 - PARKING BRAKE
Posted on: 2020-04-28
Description
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain 2006-2021 vision and 2007-2013 all american school buses. The floor-mounted parking brake may fail to hold the vehicle stationary on an incline when the vehicle is loaded to its maximum weight, due to an insufficient application force. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard (fmvss) number 105, hydraulic and electric brake systems.
Consequence
A parking brake system that is set to an insufficient application force may result in an increased possibility of unintended vehicle movement, which increases the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the floor mounted park brake application force hand lever assembly and correct the application force, as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin june 24, 2020. Owners may contact blue bird customer service at 478-822-2242. Blue bird's number for this recall is r20ao-sb.
Notes
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #44 - SEATS:BARRIERS
Posted on: 2020-03-04
Description
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain 2008-2021 vision and all american school buses. The seat barrier behind the driver seat with an integrated 3-point seat belt may have been installed incorrectly and may be missing the reinforcing bracket. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard (fmvss) number 222, school bus passenger seating and crash protection.
Consequence
In the event of a crash, the seat barrier may not adequately protect the occupant seated behind the seat barrier separating them from the driver seat with integrated 3-point seat belt, increasing the risk of injury.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and properly install the seat barrier including adding reinforcing bracket, as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin april 23, 2020. Owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242. Blue bird's number for this recall is r20am-sb.
Notes
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
DEFECT #45 - SEATS:BARRIERS
Posted on: 2020-03-04
Description
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain 2008-2021 vision and all american school buses. The seat barrier behind the driver seat with an integrated 3-point seat belt may have been installed incorrectly and may be missing the reinforcing bracket. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard (fmvss) number 222, school bus passenger seating and crash protection.
Consequence
In the event of a crash, the seat barrier may not adequately protect the occupant seated behind the seat barrier separating them from the driver seat with integrated 3-point seat belt, increasing the risk of injury.
Corrective Action
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and properly install the seat barrier including adding reinforcing bracket, as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin april 23, 2020. Owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242. Blue bird's number for this recall is r20am-sb.
Notes
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.