The problem
Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Cherokee recreational trailers, model T19V, manufactured February 18, 2013, to August 14, 2013. In the affected vehicles, the Federal placard displays incorrect vehicle information. The original placard indicates that the tires on the vehicle are ST225/75R15D and the axle indicates a 5,200 lbs. capacity. However, the vehicle was built with a 3,500 lbs. axle and ST205/75R15C tires, which results in a decrease in the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of 49 CFR Part 567, "Certification."
The risk
By relying on the incorrect Tire, Rim, GVWR and Cargo Carrying Capacity information indicated on the Federal Placards, an owner may unknowingly overload the vehicle, possibly resulting in tire or axle failure, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Forest River will notify owners and provide a corrected, free of charge. The recall began on October 26, 2015. Owners may contact Forest River customer service at 1-800-453-6064. Forest River's number for this campaign is 17A-10082015-0094.
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 Forest River dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 15V650000.
- 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.