The problem
On some travel trailers equipped with optional underslung spare tire carriers, the locking pin for the spare tire carrier may not have been installed.
The risk
If the release bolt that secures the spare tire carrier to the frame at the drop down end of the carrier were to become loose and fall off, a portion of the carrier assembly itself could detach and fall off if there is no locking pin. If the spare tire carrier were to separate from the unit during travel, there is the potential for a crash.
The fix
Dealers will install an improved carrier release bolt and locking pin. Owner notification began january 21, 2002. 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 coachmen at 1-800-453-6064.
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 Coachmen dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 02V009000.
- 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.