The problem
Vehicle description: school buses built on gm p3 cutaway chassis. The school bus, when tested in accordance with fmvss no. 301, Exceeded the allowable fuel spillage as specified by the standard. The fuel tank was punctured as a result of the impact of the moving barrier.
The risk
If a vehicle crash were to occur, fuel leakage could result. If an ignition source were present, this condition could result in a vehicle fire.
The fix
General motors is working in conjunction with carpenter, thomas built and u.S. Bus in providing the owner notification and remedy campaign for this recall. Dealers will install new shielding for the fuel tank, new fill pipe and vent hoses, and if required, add additional attachments to secure the school bus body to the chassis.
Contacts
Owner notification began january 6, 1997. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact general motors at 1-800-462-8782. 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 Crown Coach, GMC, Thomas dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 96V162000.
- 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.