The problem
The fittings used to secure the school bus seats or wheel chair tie-downs to the track used in the track seating system do not seat properly resulting in noncompliance with fmvss no. 222, "School bus passenger seating and crash protection."
The risk
In the event of a collision, the occupant may not be properly restrained increasing the risk of injury.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the fittings and replace the improperly machined track if necessary.
Contacts
Owner notification began april 1, 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 reasonaable time should contact thomas built at 1-910-889-4871. 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 Thomas dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 96V189000.
- 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.