The problem
Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks. These vehicles are equipped with peterbilt's smartgage system containing a reduced function interface module (rfim). This module receives data from various components/systems on the vehicle then sends the information to a microprocessor. A manufacturing defect in the rfim's can allow water to penetrate into the pressure block portion of the module, causing an electrical short in the pressure transducer connector.
The risk
This results in an erroneous air pressure reading on the gauge in the dash.
The fix
The rfim date code will be inspected and all rfim's built prior to september 9, 2000 will be replaced. Owner notification began june 13, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact peterbilt at 1-940-591-4000.
Contacts
Also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
What to do
- Check your VIN. Enter it at nhtsa.gov/recalls - it shows whether this recall applies to your vehicle and whether the repair has been done.
- Call a dealer. Any authorized Peterbilt dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 01V131000.
- Ask about parts and a loaner. If parts aren't available yet, ask what to do in the meantime.
- Keep your paperwork. If you paid for this repair before the recall, you may be able to get reimbursed - here's how.