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Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Annett Wins $100,000 Bonus, Two Fords in Top-10 at Indy

MICHAEL ANNETT, No. 43 Pilot/Flying J Ford Mustang (Finished 6th) – YOU JUST WON $100,000 IN THE DASH FOR THE CASH, HOW DOES THAT FEEL?

 

  “This is awesome. This is the Brickyard. We aren’t kissing any bricks today but we have a big cardboard check that we can lay our lips on. This was fun. I was so confused this morning. I just wanted to drop the rag and figure it out as we went. About 20 laps in I realized what we needed to get through the field and we had a heck of a strategy that got us in the right place at the right time. I can’t thank Nationwide Insurance enough. Everyone at Pilot F lying J that have been with us from the beginning, this is the kind of stuff the deserve. The look on the faces of the guys is just awesome. We did everything right today. We didn’t have a winning race car, but that is what makes the Dash for Cash that much cooler. The sixth place car can be racing for something. Ricky was two cars behind me the last 10 laps and I knew he was coming quick. That was the hardest I have driven in a long time for a sixth place finish. We have something to hang on the shop now.”



THE MIDWEST HAS BEEN GOOD TO YOU. “I love the summer months. Each year it seems like I come to life this time of year. I have a team right here that is coming to life too and this past month has been awesome. We missed out on a top five but we will take a sixth and $100,000. We are going to have some fun with this money. Hopefully we will give back to some of the people that put us here.”


WAS IT A TOUGH RACE? YOU SAID YOU WERE HAVING STRUGGLES EARLY. “Yeah we weren’t necessarily struggling early it is just this race track, track position is everything here. We had the same car from the green flag to the checkered. We didn’t make one adjustment on the race car. It was strategy. Felipe Lopez had a great strategy. We took two tires early so we would know what it would do later on and that is what we did and it put us up front where we needed to be. Everything just worked out perfect. I knew Ricky was coming. I think I was sixth and he was eighth and I was trying to hold of the 20 and keep that car between us. It was a very hard fought sixth, I can tell you that much.”


YOUR IMPRESSIONS OF YOUR FIRST RACE HERE AT THE BRICKYARD? “I was definitely confused this morning. I didn’t know what I had. I knew I didn’t have it figured out and didn’t know what my plan was for the race. I wanted to take notes the whole race and make sure we were there at the end and had everything in the book we could pull out and use. That is when the strategy came in. I made some passes early and learned things on how to make runs on cars and complete the pass which is the hardest thing to do here. We got that figured out and everything just came through in the end.”


RICKY STENHOUSE JR., No. 6 Sam’s Club/Cargill Ford Mustang (Finished 9th) – “We just couldn’t really get going. On long runs I felt like we were okay. I don’t really know what we needed. The balance of the car felt okay, I don’t know. I really don’t. I don’t know what to point to. Our Sam’s Club Mustang was decent, it just wasn’t great. It was kind of an average day. We ran pretty much eighth to 10th all day and that is all we had. I really don’t know why. We will have to go look at some notes. It looked like two tires held pretty good there so maybe that is something we should have looked at. All in all we finished ninth, which isn’t terrible, but isn’t what we were looking for.”

Recalls Of The Day, July 31, 2012

Today the National Highway Traffic Safety Adminstration issued two safety recalls.  One is in regard to exterior lighting on a travel trailer.  The other is for failures in a circuit board that could cause a fire in some trucks.  A fire in your vehicle certainly will get your attention.



Vehicle Make / Model: Model Year(s):
FOREST RIVER / R-POD 2009-2011
Manufacturer: FOREST RIVER, INC.Mfr's Report Date: JAN 12, 2011
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V010000 NHTSA Action Number: N/A
Component: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Potential Number of Units Affected: 2,741
Summary:
 FOREST RIVER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009-2011 R-POD TRAVEL TRAILERS MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 27, 2008, THROUGH NOVEMBER 20, 2010, FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE VEHICLES DO NOT HAVE THE REQUIRED CLEARANCE LIGHTS.
Consequence:
 SEE NOTES:
Remedy:
 SEE NOTES:
Notes:
 THE MANUFACTURER IS PETITIONING NHTSA FOR A DETERMINATION THAT THIS MATTER IS INCONSEQUENTIAL TO MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY. THE MANUFACTURER IS NOT OBLIGATED TO CONDUCT AN OWNER NOTIFICATION AND REMEDY CAMPAIGN UNTIL NHTSA HAS RESOLVED THIS PETITION. IF THE PETITION IS DENIED, THE MANUFACTURER WILL BE NOTIFIED AND MUST THEN UNDERTAKE ITS NOTIFICATION AND REMEDY CAMPAIGN OBLIGATIONS.
Equipment Brand Name / Part No. or Model No.: Production Dates:
IFS / ELECTRIC APU Information not Available
Manufacturer: IDLE FREE SYSTEMS, INC.Mfr's Report Date: JUL 18, 2012
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 12E027000 NHTSA Action Number: EQ12001
Component: EQUIPMENT
Potential Number of Units Affected: 36
Summary:
 Idle Free Systems, Inc. (IFS) is recalling certain auxiliary power units (APU), model MT-HR-H-06, manufactured from February 2010 through December 2011 and installed as aftermarket equipment on heavy trucks. The APU captures excess energy produced by the truck's alternator. This energy is converted to electricity which can be used to power A/C and heat systems in the truck's cab.
Consequence:
 The battery separator contained in the APU could experience an internal circuit board capacitor failure, which could result in a fire.
Remedy:
 IFS will notify owners and the battery separator will be replaced free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin during July 2012. Owners may contact IFS at 1-920-206-9333.
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.

Monday, July 30, 2012

Recall Recap For July 23 - 27, 2012

Here are the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recalls for last week.  To see if your vehicle is affected by any of the recalls on this list click the link at the top of this blog.  Use the NHTSA ID number next to the recall to get all the details.




NHTSA Campaign ID Number :
Manufacturer :
MAZDA NORTH AMERICAN OPERATIONS
Make / Model Years :
MAZDA / 2001-2006,2008
Subject :
Speed Control Cable Connector Interference
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :
Manufacturer :
HYUNDAI-KIA AMERICA TECHNICAL CENTER INC
Make / Model Years :
HYUNDAI / 2007-2009
Subject :
Occupant Classification Systems
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :
Manufacturer :
FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Make / Model Years :
FORD / 2001-2004
Subject :
Speed Control Cable Connector Interference
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :
Manufacturer :
HYUNDAI-KIA AMERICA TECHNICAL CENTER INC
Make / Model Years :
HYUNDAI / 2012-2013
Subject :
Curtain Airbag Uncommanded Deployment
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :
Manufacturer :
COLLINS BUS CORPORATION
Make / Model Years :
COLLINS / 2012
CORBEIL / 2012
MID-BUS / 2012
Subject :
Double Out Door Hardware/drawstrings could catch
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :
Manufacturer :
COLLINS BUS CORPORATION
Make / Model Years :
COLLINS / 2012
CORBEIL / 2012
MID-BUS / 2012
Subject :
Seat Bolt Fuel Filler Interference
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :
Manufacturer :
KAWASAKI MOTORS CORP., U.S.A.
Make / Model Years :
KAWASAKI / 2008-2012
Subject :
Brake Pedal and Guard Gap
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :
Manufacturer :
COLLINS BUS CORPORATION
Make / Model Years :
COLLINS / 2012
CORBEIL / 2012
MID-BUS / 2012
Subject :
Electrical Control Panel can fall
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :
Manufacturer :
FOREST RIVER, INC.
Make / Model Years :
BERKSHIRE / 2005-2011
CHARLESTON / 2005-2011
Subject :
Transfer Switch
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :
Manufacturer :
COLLINS BUS CORPORATION
Make / Model Years :
COLLINS / 2012
CORBEIL / 2012
MID-BUS / 2012
Subject :
Emergency egress windows/FMVSS 217
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :
Manufacturer :
NOVA BUS
Make / Model Years :
NOVA BUS / 2012
Subject :
Brake Valve Plunger

Saturday, July 28, 2012

Recalls Of The Day, July 28, 2012

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued three recalls for popular vehicles.  Two recalls are for Hyundai vehicles.  The third is for Mazda.  All of these recalls address problems that could cause serious injury or worse.     




Vehicle Make / Model: Model Year(s):
HYUNDAI / SANTA FE 2007-2009
Manufacturer: HYUNDAI-KIA AMERICA TECHNICAL CENTER INCMfr's Report Date: JUL 24, 2012
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 12V354000 NHTSA Action Number: N/A
Component: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE
Potential Number of Units Affected: 199,118
Summary:
 Hyundai is recalling certain model year 2007 through 2009 Santa Fe vehicles manufactured from April 19, 2006, through July 7, 2008. The occupant classification system (OCS) may need recalibration to accurately detect small statured adults.
Consequence:
 Improper classification or detection may cause the front passenger airbag not to deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury to the front passenger.
Remedy:
 Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will update the classification software free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided the agency with a notification schedule. Owners may contact Hyundai at 1-800-633-5151.
Notes:
 Hyundai's recall campaign number is 105. 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.
Vehicle Make / Model: Model Year(s):
HYUNDAI / SONATA 2012-2013
Manufacturer: HYUNDAI-KIA AMERICA TECHNICAL CENTER INCMfr's Report Date: JUL 24, 2012
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 12V352000 NHTSA Action Number: N/A
Component: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
Potential Number of Units Affected: 22,512
Summary:
 Hyundai is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Hyundai Sonata passenger cars, manufactured from January 24, 2012, through June 21, 2012. The curtain side airbags on these vehicles may inflate without deployment command due to an error during manufacturing.
Consequence:
 The curtain airbag may inflate without deployment command and increase the risk of injury to occupants of the vehicle. Additionally, an unexpected deployment would be a significant driver distraction and would limit the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy:
 Hyundai dealers will notify owners, and dealers will replace the curtain side airbags free of charge. This recall is expected to begin during August 2012. Owners may contact Hyundai at 1-800-633-5151.
Notes:
 Hyundai's recall campaign number is 106. Customers may contact The National Highway Traffic Safety Vehicle Safety Administrations Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); or go to HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
Vehicle Make / Model: Model Year(s):
MAZDA / TRIBUTE 2001-2006 2008
Manufacturer: MAZDA NORTH AMERICAN OPERATIONSMfr's Report Date: JUL 26, 2012
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 12V357000 NHTSA Action Number: PE12019
Component: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Potential Number of Units Affected: 217,500
Summary:
 Mazda is recalling certain model year 2001 through 2006, and 2008, Tribute vehicles equipped with 3.0L V6 engines and speed control. Inadequate clearance between the engine cover and the speed control cable connector could result in a stuck throttle when the accelerator pedal is fully or almost-fully depressed. This risk exists regardless of whether or not speed control (cruise control) is used.
Consequence:
 A stuck throttle may result in very high vehicle speeds and make it difficult to stop or slow the vehicle, which could cause a crash, serious injury or death.
Remedy:
 Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles by increasing the engine cover clearance, free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin on, or before, August 6, 2012. Remedy parts are expected to be available in mid-August 2012. Until then dealers will disconnect the speed control cable as an interim remedy, if parts are not available at the time of an owner's service appointment. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-222-5500, option #6.
Notes:
 Mazda's recall campaign number is 6812G. 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.

Friday, July 27, 2012

Northwest Herald Dr. Gizmo Column Dated July 20, 2012

If you missed the last column, here it is. 


"Dr. Gizmo"
By Phil Arendt
 

Four-Wheel-Drive Fails To Engage

Question 1

The four-wheel-drive warning light is on in my 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche and four-wheel-drive does not work.

I take great care of my truck with frequent oil and filter changes.  I follow the recommended services in my owner manual and the advice of the manager at my local independent repair shop.  I don’t go off-road but do use four-wheel-drive on roads when they are slick.  The last time I used it was in a blinding rain and that’s when the light turned on.  Is this going to cost a bundle to repair? H.B.R., email


Answer 1
Rain, what’s that?  Also, if you have children, it might cost your first born to fix the trouble.  All kidding aside this problem likely is due to a failed actuator, motor or wiring.  The trouble likely is not caused by a mechanical failure such as a failed transfer case or differential as you did not state that you hear unusual sounds such as grinding noises which usually cost an arm and leg to fix.


Sloshing Sound Baffles Motorist

Question 2
Recently, I purchased a 2010 Buick Enclave.  It’s in like new condition and has 17,000 miles.  It runs and drives great, but I have one complaint.  Often, I hear sloshing sounds from the rear of the vehicle.  I assume the noise is from the gas tank.  I have never heard this sound in any vehicle I have previously owned, but I have never owned a Buick.  Is this normal?  M.M.R., email

Answer 2
Congratulations on your recent purchase.  You might have paid extra for the sloshing sounds, but the condition is not normal.  You might hear sloshing gasoline after an emergency stop but under normal driving conditions sloshing should be minimal.  There are baffles inside the gas tank that reduce sloshing and splashing.  Apparently, a baffle is loose, misaligned or detached. 

To find out for sure if this is the problem, a technician first should verify the fuel tank is the source of the noise.  Once this is confirmed he needs to drain the tank and remove it from the vehicle.  Then he removes the fuel pump module so he can visually inspect the tank interior.  If a baffle is loose, misaligned or detached replacing the tank is the cure.

Once you have made an appointment with a shop, be sure the gas tank is near empty on your appointment date.  I’m sure your shop will advise you about this issue in further detail.

Deodorant No Cure For Stinky Exhaust
Question 3

I own a 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt with a 2.2-liter engine and automatic transmission.  I purchased it six months ago.  It’s in excellent condition and runs great.  The trouble is the exhaust fumes smell like rotten eggs.  At first I did not notice the odor but more recently since spring I’ve noticed the odor especially when the windows are open.  At first I thought the smell was from other cars and I was shocked when I realized it was mine.  It’s embarrassing.  I’ve noticed other drivers looking at my car at stops lights.  

I talked with a mechanic about the trouble.  He suggested that the catalytic converter might need replacement and to take the car to a dealership to have the work done under warranty. 

I took his advice and went to a dealership.  It was told that the catalytic converter is fine and the gasoline I use is the cause.  They told me to switch to a different gas station but the odor is not gone.  Do you think the gasoline is the cause or is it something else?  Can I add something to the gas to get rid of the odor?   D., email

Answer 3
Sure, add any deodorant or lemons to the fuel tank.  All kidding aside, the likely cause of the odor is sulfur.  Some fuels contain higher than average sulfur however, there are regulations as to how much sulfur can be in gasoline.  Gasoline that contains close to the limit and don’t have additives to combat sulfur are more prone to develop rotten egg odors than gasoline that contains the additives to reduce the odor.

Since deodorant or lemons are not an option, consider purchasing top tier gasoline.  Top tier gasoline meets higher standards for fuel additives but may not contain less sulfur.  Fortunately, detergent additives in top tier fuels are better at controlling sulfur odors.

To find out which brands of fuel are top tier go to www.toptiergas.com.  Once you have decided which brand to purchase, drive until your tank is nearly empty.  Fill the tank with top tier fuel.  As you drive, the odor should diminish and might be completely gone after two or three tanks of top tier fuel.  Of course, to make sure the odor does not return, continue to burn top tier fuel.

Adjustment Needed
Question 4

A few days ago I replaced the master cylinder in my 1991 Toyota Celica.  Since then I have noticed after I drive a while the front brakes drag and get excessively hot.  I have checked everything at the calipers.  They are fine.  I’ve also checked the hoses and lines for damage and there are no bent or kinked lines. 

I don’t think trapped air is the problem but I bled the system three times to make sure. 

I’m about to return the master cylinder to my auto parts store but before I do I want your opinion.  Do you think the master cylinder is defective?  G.G., email

Answer 4
Perhaps it is.  However, the push rod between master cylinder and brake booster might need adjustment.  You may need to shorten the length by giving it a few turns.  To do a proper adjustment, refer to a repair manual.  Once the adjustment is correct, the trouble might be resolved.  If not, it’s time to exchange the master cylinder for another.


Yikes! Brakes Failed At Intersection
Question 5
Recently, the antilock brake warning light turned on in my 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier.  I took the car to a repair shop where they determined that the module was bad.  They replaced it and all was well.  Three days later when I applied the brakes I was slowing to a stop when the brake pedal went to the floor and the car barely stopped.  I almost went into a busy intersection.  I was able to safely drive the car to the side of the road, shaken but not injured.  Immediately, I called my repair shop.  They sent a tow truck.

The next day the shop called to tell me a brake line at the rear of the vehicle had popped.  They inspected all of the lines and suggested that I have all the flexible lines at the wheels replaced due to cracks.

I’m a college student who is short on funds.  Did the mechanic have to remove the line to replace the module?  If so, did the mechanic do something incorrect?  Is it necessary to replace all of the lines?  T.B.A., email

Answer 5
The module is at the front of the vehicle.  There is no need for a technician to fiddle with hoses at the rear wheels. 

Each wheel has a flexible rubber hose that contains brake fluid.  More likely than not, due to vehicle age, the rubber has deteriorated.  When you applied the brakes, hydraulic pressure caused the brake hose to fail and brake fluid escaped from the system.  The pressure loss impaired braking power but at least you had one front and one rear wheel stopping the car due to vehicle design.

As for replacing all of the hoses, it’s a good idea.  If one hose was suffering from age related degradation, it is likely the remaining hoses are suffering as well.  As a preventive measure against another failure, consider replacing all of them.

Stuck In Four-Wheel-Drive
Question 6

When making tight turns in my 2002 GMC Yukon the entire front of the vehicle shudders.  I asked my local shop about the trouble.  The manager said it sounds like the four-wheel-drive is engaged.  As far as I know it is not engaged.  He said I should bring the vehicle in to have it checked out. 

Does what the manager said sound right to you?  R.B., email

Answer 6
Yes indeed.  It is possible the front drive portion of the four-wheel-drive system is engaged.  When this occurs on dry pavement torque builds in the driveline and causes the wheels to stop, shudder and slip especially in tight turns.   There are instances when torque energy becomes so great a vehicle will not move except in reverse gear.  In such incidents driving a long distance in reverse gear dissipates the torque so the vehicle can move forward.  This likely will not happen in your vehicle as long as the wheels continue to shudder and slip in response to the power of torque.

The trouble might be due to electrical faults but more than likely an actuator is stuck and will not disengage the system.  Replacing the actuator might be a lasting cure.  Ask your favorite technician to consider these thoughts when you take the vehicle for repairs.

Thanks for all of your great questions.  Dr. Gizmo can’t wait to answer more.

Phil Arendt is a columnist, consultant and A.S.E.-Certified Master Technician.  Readers may send questions to Dr. Gizmo at P.O. Box 548, Cary, IL. 60013 or e-mail address drgizmo@drgizmo.ws.  07/16/2012 ® DR. GIZMO © 1989-2012

Recalls Of The Day, July 27, 2012

Today the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration issued five recalls.  One is for stuck throttles.  Another is for brake problems.  A third is for tire failure.

Additionally, parts could fall off a vehicle that possibly could distract or injure the driver.  The last recall in this round of recalls is for possible entanglement in a door that could cause a passenger to be run over by wheels on a bus.

Please review the recalls.  To determine if your vehicle is affected, contact your manufacture, dealership or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 

      




Vehicle Make / Model: Model Year(s):
FORD / ESCAPE 2001-2004
Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANYMfr's Report Date: JUL 25, 2012
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 12V353000 NHTSA Action Number: PE12019
Component: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Potential Number of Units Affected: 423,634
Summary:
 Ford Motor Company is recalling certain model year 2001 through 2004 Escape vehicles equipped with 3.0L V6 engines and speed control manufactured from October 22, 1999, through January 23, 2004. Inadequate clearance between the engine cover and the speed control cable connector could result in a stuck throttle when the accelerator pedal is fully or almost-fully depressed. This risk exists regardless of whether or not speed control (cruise control) is used.
Consequence:
 A stuck throttle may result in very high vehicle speeds and make it difficult to stop or slow the vehicle, which could cause a crash, serious injury or death.
Remedy:
 Ford will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles by increasing the engine cover clearance, free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin on, or before, August 6, 2012. Remedy parts are expected to be available in mid-August 2012. Until then dealers will disconnect the speed control cable as an interim remedy, if parts are not available at the time of an owner's service appointment. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332.
Notes:
 Ford's recall campaign number is 12S37. 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.
Vehicle Make / Model: Model Year(s):
KAWASAKI / CONCOURS 14 2008-2012
Manufacturer: KAWASAKI MOTORS CORP., U.S.A.Mfr's Report Date: JUL 18, 2012
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 12V343000 NHTSA Action Number: N/A
Component: STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
Potential Number of Units Affected: 13,289
Summary:
 Kawasaki is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 Concours 14 (ZG1400 A/B/C/D) motorcycles. Due to a gap between the brake pedal and guard, small stone or debris can become trapped, creating a brake drag. This can cause the rear brake to overheat, leading to rear brake damage and lock-up or failure of the rear brakes. The front brakes may also be affected on ZG1400C models.
Consequence:
 If the brakes lock up or fail, there is an increased risk of a crash.
Remedy:
 Kawasaki will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear master cylinder rod end and remove the brake guard (if installed), free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin on, or about, July 30, 2012. Owners may contact Kawasaki at 1-866-802-9381.
Notes:
 Customers may contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
Tire Brand Name / Tire Line / Tire Size: Production Dates:
BF GOODRICH / COMMERCIAL T/A A/S LRE / LT 235/85R16 120 Q Information not Available
BF GOODRICH / COMMERCIAL T/A A/S LRE / LT 245/75R16 120 Q Information not Available
UNIROYAL / LAREDO HD/H LRE / LT 235/85R16 120 Q Information not Available
UNIROYAL / LAREDO HD/H LRE / LT 245/75R16 120 Q Information not Available
Manufacturer: MICHELIN NORTH AMERICA, INC.Mfr's Report Date: JUL 24, 2012
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 12T019000 NHTSA Action Number: N/A
Component: TIRES:TREAD/BELT
Potential Number of Units Affected: 799,900
Summary:
 Michelin is recalling certain BF Goodrich Commercial T/A A/S LRE and Uniroyal Laredo HD/H LRE tires, sizes LT235/85R16 120 Q and LT245/75R16 120 Q. These tires may develop a separation at the tread/belt edge.
Consequence:
 Tread/belt separation of the tire while the vehicle is in use can result in rapid air loss which may increase the risk of a vehicle crash.
Remedy:
 Michelin will notify owners and replace the affected tires free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin on, or about, August 6, 2012. Owners may contact Michelin Consumer Care at 1-800-637-5527.
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.
Vehicle Make / Model: Model Year(s):
COLLINS / DE 2012
COLLINS / DH 2012
COLLINS / SH 2012
COLLINS / SL 2012
CORBEIL / DE 2012
CORBEIL / DH 2012
CORBEIL / SH 2012
CORBEIL / SL 2012
MID-BUS / DE 2012
MID-BUS / DH 2012
MID-BUS / SH 2012
MID-BUS / SL 2012
Manufacturer: COLLINS BUS CORPORATIONMfr's Report Date: JUL 10, 2012
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 12V342000 NHTSA Action Number: N/A
Component: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL
Potential Number of Units Affected: 196
Summary:
 Collins is recalling certain model year 2012 Collins, Mid-Bus, and Corbeil SL, SH, DH, and DE model school and multi-function school activity buses manufactured from March 12, 2012, through July 2, 2012. The electrical panel cover above the driver may not be adequately secured. Vibration can cause the designed disks to lose grip and release the cover without warning.
Consequence:
 The panel could fall and injure or distract the driver, leading to a crash.
Remedy:
 Collins will notify owners, and dealers will repair the buses free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin on, or about, September 20, 2012. Owners may contact Collins at 1-800-533-1850.
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.
Vehicle Make / Model: Model Year(s):
COLLINS / DE 2012
COLLINS / DH 2012
COLLINS / SH 2012
COLLINS / SL 2012
CORBEIL / DE 2012
CORBEIL / DH 2012
CORBEIL / SH 2012
CORBEIL / SL 2012
MID-BUS / DE 2012
MID-BUS / DH 2012
MID-BUS / SH 2012
MID-BUS / SL 2012
Manufacturer: COLLINS BUS CORPORATIONMfr's Report Date: JUL 10, 2012
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 12V346000 NHTSA Action Number: N/A
Component: STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR
Potential Number of Units Affected: 171
Summary:
 Collins is recalling certain model year 2012 Collins, Mid-Bus, or Corbeil SL, SH, DH, and DE model school and multi-function school activity buses manufacturer from March 12, 2012, through July 3, 2012. When the Double Out Door is open, there is potential for a drawstring of a backpack or an article of clothing to become entangled in a gap at the door bracket or support hardware as a passenger is exiting the bus.
Consequence:
 If a drawstring or any other article of clothing worn by a passenger is entangled or snagged by the handrail, the bus operator may not be aware that the passenger is caught and could move the bus, potentially pulling the passenger under the wheels. This situation could lead to injury or even death.
Remedy:
 Collins will notify owners, and dealers will repair the buses free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin on or about July 30, 2012. Owners may contact Collins at 1-800-533-1850.
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.