The problem
Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Forest River XLR Toyhauler recreational trailers, models XLT25KW, XLT25KW-W, XLT28KW and XLT28KW-W. The safety chains on these vehicles do not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the trailer.
The risk
If the trailer becomes uncoupled, the existing safety chains may fail, allowing the trailer to separate from the tow vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Forest River will notify owners, and dealers will replace the safety chains with chains that exceed the vehicle's GVWR, free of charge. The recall began on March 13, 2018. Owners may contact Forest River customer service at 1-574-642-0432. Forest River's number for this recall is 45-0645.
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 18V134000.
- 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.