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AEV Traumahawk Recall 18V594: Brake lights may light up without the pedal pressed

NHTSA campaign 18V594, reported September 7, 2018, 588 vehicles potentially affected.

What this recall means for you

Certain ambulances equipped with Whelen accessory brake lights may have wiring that causes those lights to illuminate even when the brake pedal is not pressed. This means the vehicle does not meet federal lighting safety requirements.

False brake light signals can confuse other drivers about when you are slowing or stopping, which could increase the risk of a rear-end or other crash. If you own an affected vehicle, contact Halcore customer service at 1-800-447-0343 to confirm your eligibility and arrange the repair.

The remedy is free: Whelen will replace the brake lights at no cost to you. Also check your vehicle identification number (VIN) for any open recalls at an authorized dealer or the NHTSA recall lookup site.

Check whether this recall is open on your vehicle

The repair is normally free at an authorized dealer.

Official recall notice

Safety recall 18V594Halcore Group, Inc.
Component
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS
Problem
Halcore Group, Inc. (Halcore) is recalling certain 2017-2018 AEV Traumahawk Type I & Type III ambulances, equipped with Whelen accessory brake lights. Depending on the specific wiring of the vehicle, these brake lights may illuminate when the brake pedal has not been pressed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Risk
If the brake lights incorrectly illuminate, it can confuse other drivers, possibly increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Halcore will notify owners, and Whelen will replace the brake lights, free of charge. The recall began October 26, 2018. Owners may contact Halcore customer service at 1-800-447-0343.
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.

Affected vehicles

AEV Traumahawk20172018