The problem
On certain heavy duty trucks, exposed 12v terminals on the battery disconnect switch are in close proximity to a hinged metal latch on the battery box lid. When latching or un-latching the battery box lid, it is possible that a person wearing metal jewelry (like a watch or finger ring) might connect the grounded, metal latch to the exposed positive terminals on the battery disconnect switch through such jewelry.
The risk
Grounding as a result of the contact described above could produce heat and could cause burns to skin that is in contact with metal jewelry.
The fix
Dealers will relocate the switch to a position further away from the metal catch and install isolating protectors over the battery disconnect switch terminals. The recall is began on february 20, 2006. Owners may contact autocar at 1-765-489-5499.
Contacts
Autocar recall no. A-0601. Customers 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.
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 Autocar dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 06V042000.
- 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.