The problem
New Flyer is recalling certain model year 2004-2006 D40I transit buses manufactured January 14, 2005, through October 19, 2006, and equipped with Sure Power battery equalizers and DC-DC converters containing a particular epoxy sealing, aka 'potting', compound. The specific potting compound used in the subject products for insulation was found to be capable of conducting electricity after being exposed to heat.
The risk
Once electrically conductive, the material is capable of melting and burning, increasing the risk of a fire.
The fix
New Flyer will notify owners, and dealers will replace the equalizers and converters, free of charge. The recall began on November 4, 2013. Owners may contact New Flyer at 1-204-982-8400. New Flyer's recall number is R13-021.
Contacts
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to 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 New Flyer dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 13V485000.
- 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.