The problem
Certain thomas built 2006 and 2007 c2 school buses manufactured between december 21, 2005, and september 4, 2006. The inlet air fitting welded to the base plate was manufactured inconsistently, possibly allowing the fitting to separate. Separation of the inlet fitting will prevent the actuating air from powering the crossing arm and may not deploy.
The risk
A non-deploying crossing arm allows some student passengers to not be visible to the driver as they cross in front of the bus during pick-up or discharge, present a risk to them.
The fix
Thomas built will notify owners and repair the buses free of charge. The recall began on january 28, 2007. Owners may call thomas built at 336-889-4871 or contact freightliner at 800-547-0712.
Contacts
Freightliner recall no fl-488. Customers may 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 Thomas Built Buses dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 07V002000.
- 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.