The problem
Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain 2017 Salem and Wildwood recreational vehicles. The Federal Placard on these vehicles incorrectly lists the Gross Axle Weight Rating capacity (GAWR) being 5,080 lbs, when the axles actually have a capacity of 4,400 lbs. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of 49 CFR Part 567, "Certification."
The risk
The incorrect GAWR may result in the vehicle being overloaded, causing a loss of control and increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Forest River will notify owners, and dealers will provide a new Federal Placard with the correct GAWR, free of charge. The recall began on April 18, 2017. Owners may contact Forest River customer service at 1-574-534-4058. Forest River's number for this recall is 27-03292017-0362.
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 17V218000.
- 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.