CarRecallWatch- Component
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS
- Problem
- Kovatch Mobile Equipment Corp. (KME) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Commercial Pumper, Commercial Rescue, Commercial Tanker, Commercial Wildland, 2018-2019 Predator Aerial, Predator Panther Pumper, Predator Pumper, Predator Rescue, Predator SS Pumper, Predator Tanker, 2018 Predator Panther Aerial, Predator Panther Tanker, Predator SS Aerial, Predator SS TDA, and Predator TDA vehicles 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
- KME will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake lights, free of charge. The recall began November 2, 2018. Owners may contact KME customer service at 1-800-235-3928.
- 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.
What this recall means for you
Certain KME fire apparatus, including 2017 and 2018 Commercial Pumper, Rescue, Tanker and Wildland models, are equipped with Whelen accessory brake lights that, depending on how the vehicle is wired, may illuminate even when the brake pedal has not been pressed. The vehicles therefore do not meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 108 for lamps and associated equipment.
When brake lights come on incorrectly, following drivers can be misled into thinking the vehicle is slowing or stopping. This can lead to confusion and a higher risk of a crash.
KME will notify affected owners, and an authorized dealer will replace the brake lights at no cost. Owners with questions can contact KME customer service at 1-800-235-3928, and you can check your vehicle identification number for any open recalls.
Check whether this recall is open on your vehicle