Recall 13V-480: 2004–2007 Blue Bird Express 4000, 2004–2007 Blue Bird Express 4500 and 2 more
Blue Bird Body Company recall for electrical system, reported to NHTSA on Oct 17, 2013, covering about 393 vehicles.
The problem
Blue Bird Body Company (Blue Bird) is recalling certain model year 2004 Ultra LMB, 2003-2006 Ultra LF and 2004-2007 Express commercial buses equipped with Sure Power-brand battery equalizers containing a particular epoxy sealing, aka 'potting', compound. The specific potting compound used in the subject products for insulation was found to be capable of conducting electricity after being exposed to heat.
The risk
Once electrically conductive, the material is capable of melting and burning, increasing the risk of a fire.
The fix
Blue Bird will notify owners, and dealers will replace the equalizers, free of charge. The recall began on December 17, 2013. Owners may contact Blue Bird at 1-478-825-2021. Blue Bird's recall number is R13WN.
Notes
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.
Recall details
| Manufacturer | Blue Bird Body Company |
|---|---|
| Component | Electrical System |
| Recall started by | the manufacturer |
| NHTSA campaign number | 13V480000 |
Vehicles in this recall
| Vehicle | Model years | |
|---|---|---|
| Blue Bird Express 4000 | 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 | All years |
| Blue Bird Express 4500 | 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 | All years |
| Blue Bird Ultra LF | 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 | All years |
| Blue Bird Ultra LMB | 2004 | All years |
Not every vehicle of these model years is included. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls ↗ or ask a dealer.
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 13V-480?
Blue Bird Body Company (Blue Bird) is recalling certain model year 2004 Ultra LMB, 2003-2006 Ultra LF and 2004-2007 Express commercial buses equipped with Sure Power-brand battery equalizers containing a particular epoxy sealing, aka 'potting', compound. The specific potting compound used in the subject products for insulation was found to be capable of conducting electricity after being exposed to heat.
How is recall 13V-480 fixed?
Blue Bird will notify owners, and dealers will replace the equalizers, free of charge. The recall began on December 17, 2013. Owners may contact Blue Bird at 1-478-825-2021. Blue Bird's recall number is R13WN.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized dealers. Check whether your vehicle is included with its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.