The problem
A sudden hydraulic pressure loss during hard turns results in a momentary loss of power steering assist. The pressure loss occurs when the hydraulically driven engine cooling fan turns off in the turn.
The risk
The driver reacts to the loss of power steering assist by oversteering, which could result in a vehicle accident.
The fix
The hydraulic control valves will be replaced with valves of a new design. Until such time as parts are available, owners will be instructed to disconnect the fan cutoff switch so that hydraulically driven fans will run full time, eliminating the pressure spike.
Contacts
System: engine cooling system; fan. Vehicle description: rear engine transit buses note: if your vehicle is presented to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and the remedy is not provided free of charge within a reasonable time or the remedy does not correct the defect, please contact blue bird service center at 1-912-825-2021. Also, contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-800-424-9393.
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 94V157000.
- 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.