The problem
Blue Bird Body Company (Blue Bird) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Blue Bird Vision transit buses equipped with Gen4 Ford engines with an optional brake and throttle interlock. The brake and throttle interlock is supposed to apply the service brakes and prevent accelerator pedal input when activated, however the throttle input is not being blocked.
The risk
If throttle input is allowed, the bus may be able to overpower the applied brake, causing the bus to move unexpectedly, increasing the risk of a crash or an injury.
The fix
Blue Bird will notify owners, and dealers will update the Smart Relay Module software, free of charge. The recall began on May 24, 2018. Owners may contact Blue Bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242. Blue Bird's number for this recall is R18ZF - NSB.
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 Blue Bird dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 18V258000.
- 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.