The problem
On certain motorhomes, the outer wheel bearing in the hub of the axle may fail, leading to unexpected separation of the wheel from the axle. This failure may be due to an inadequate amount of grease in the hub assembly or the grease in the hub may break down under normal operating conditions into a liquid that inadequately lubricates the outer bearing. Inadequate lubrication of the outer bearing can begin a chain of events that could lead to wheel separation.
The risk
Separation of one or more wheels from the trailer could cause the trailer to handle erratically or go out of control. A lost wheel could also strike an oncoming or following vehicle causing a crash, resulting in serious injury of death to those involved.
The fix
Dealers will repair the unit and remove the wheels, inspect the hubs, inner and outer bearings, races and grease seals. If necessary, replace parts and repack the wheel bearing with high temperature grease and reinstall the hub and wheels. The recall began november 4, 2004. Owners should contact airstream at 1-877-596-6505.
Contacts
Customers can 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 Airstream dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 04V506000.
- 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.