The problem
Winnebago is recalling a model year 2013 Winnebago and 2013 Itasca motor home built on a Ford F-53 chassis. The steering gear bracket may have been secured with nuts that may damage the bolts due to an incompatibility between the installation torque and the nut finish.
The risk
The bolts may fracture, leading to separation of the steering gear and thus a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
These vehicles have been repaired prior to being sold, therefore an owner notification notice will not be issued. Consumers may contact Winnebago Industries owner relations at 1-641-585-6939.
Contacts
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 Itasca, Winnebago dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 12V453000.
- 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.