The problem
Kaufman Trailers (Kaufman) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Flatbed Equipment and Wedge Car Hauler trailers manufactured April 1, 2015, to April 30, 2016. The lock nuts that secure the axle hanger to the springs may not have been properly crimped allowing the nut to loosen and detach during operation.
The risk
If the nuts were to fall off, the bolts could loosen, and the axle may disconnect from the spring hangers, shifting or detaching from the trailer and increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Kaufman will notify owners, and provide them with new Nylock replacement nuts, free of charge. The recall began on May 20, 2016. Owners may contact Kaufman customer service at 1-336-790-6800.
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 Kaufman dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 16V271000.
- 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.