2003 Liberty Spirit recalls and problems

Recall 04V-049: Structure

Problem: Certain school buses fail to conform to federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 217, "bus emergency exits and window retention release." the rear exit door handle is not recessed which can catch on an article of clothing or a back pack, inadvertently opening the door. Also, the required positive door opening device for rear exit door does not hold the door at 90 degrees with the body.

Risk: In the event of a vehicle crash, and the vehicle ends up on its side, the door will not operate properly possibly hindering rapid egress from the vehicle.

Fix: Liberty bus will notify its customers and a metal bezel will be installed around the handle to recess it. Owner notification began april 2, 2004. Owners should contact liberty bus at 419-227-6554.

Recall 04V-050: Seats, Structure

Problem: 2003 liberty spirit (Freedom) school buses manufactured from june 2002 and december 2002. The washer that is used between the seat leg mounting foot and mounting bolt was is not wide enough or of the proper grade. In the event of a vehicle crash, the seat could separate from the floor. Also, there is insufficient pillar padding which could result in head injuries in the event of a crash.

Risk: These buses fail to conform to federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 222, "school bus passenger seating and crash protection."

Fix: Liberty bus will notify its customers repair the seats with 3 additional washers free of charge. Owner notification began april 2, 2004. 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 liberty bus at 419-227-6554.

Recall 04V-058: Wheels

Problem: On certain school buses, the certificate label for the rim size is incorrect.

Risk: These buses do not comply with federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 120, "tire selection and rims for motor vehicles other than passenger cars."

Fix: Liberty will notify its customers and mail correct labels and replace the rims free of charge, if necessary. Owner notification was expected to begin during january 2004. 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 liberty bus at 419-227-6554.

Recall 03V-461: Visibility

Problem: 2003 liberty spirit (Freedom) school buses manufactured from january 2002 and october 2003. The decal for the cross-view mirror usage has fallen off which does not comply with federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 111, "rearview mirrors."

Fix: Liberty will notify its customers and repair the buses free of charge. Owner notification began april 2, 2004. 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 liberty at 419-227-6554.