The problem
Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling one model year 2016 Thomas Built Buses Saf-T-Liner C2 school bus equipped with an 8.0L propane engine and an Allison transmission. The transmission grade brake on this bus may not deactivate when the disable switch is depressed, which can cause a loss of traction in certain icy, or other slippery conditions, due to aggressive downshifting.
The risk
If the transmission grade brake stays engaged, unknowingly to the operator, in low-traction conditions, it can increase the risk of a crash.
The fix
DTNA will notify the owner, and a dealer will update the bus' programming, free of charge. The recall began on May 26, 2017. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-734.
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 Thomas Built Buses dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 17V217000.
- 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.