2009 BLUE BIRD ALL AMERICAN Recalls (34)

Campaign:
08V229000 on 05/19/2008
Component:
Structure:body:roof and pillars
Manufactured:
03/05/2003 - 03/27/2008
Affected:
23,464
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling 23,464 my 2005 through 2009 all american and vision school and transit model buses manufactured from january 22, 2004, and march 28, 2008, and my 2004 through 2007 all american school buses and conventional model school buses manufactured from march 6, 2003, through june 16, 2006. the rivet pattern may be incorrect in sections of the rear roof sheet joint that attaches to the rear roof cap. without the appropriate amount of roof rivets, the buses fail to conform with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no 221, "joint strength."
Consequence:
In the event of a crash, these panels may separate exposing the occupants to increased risk of injury.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and inspect and repair the buses by adding additional rivets. the recall began on september 18, 2008. owners may contact blue bird at 478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird recall no. r08nc.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.
Campaign:
08V229000 on 05/19/2008
Component:
Structure:body:roof and pillars
Manufactured:
03/05/2003 - 03/27/2008
Affected:
23,464
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling 23,464 my 2005 through 2009 all american and vision school and transit model buses manufactured from january 22, 2004, and march 28, 2008, and my 2004 through 2007 all american school buses and conventional model school buses manufactured from march 6, 2003, through june 16, 2006. the rivet pattern may be incorrect in sections of the rear roof sheet joint that attaches to the rear roof cap. without the appropriate amount of roof rivets, the buses fail to conform with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no 221, "joint strength."
Consequence:
In the event of a crash, these panels may separate exposing the occupants to increased risk of injury.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and inspect and repair the buses by adding additional rivets. the recall began on september 18, 2008. owners may contact blue bird at 478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird recall no. r08nc.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.
Campaign:
08V309000 on 07/10/2008
Component:
Engine and engine cooling:engine:diesel
Manufactured:
05/22/2007 - 07/03/2008
Affected:
1,824
Defect:
A plug on the outlet side of the fuel pump can crack on certain 2008 and 2009 my blue bird all american and vision school buses manufactured from may 23, 2007 through july 4, 2008, equipped with caterpillar c7 engines.
Consequence:
A crack in this plug can result in a high pressure fuel spray or leak which, in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire.
Correction:
Blue bird is working in conjunction with caterpillar to notify owners to contact their local caterpillar dealer for a free remedy. the recall is expected to begin during july 2008. owners can contact caterpillar at 1-800-447-4986 or blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall no. r08ng.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.
Campaign:
09V205000 on 06/08/2009
Component:
Electrical system:ignition
Manufactured:
07/15/2003 - 04/09/2009
Affected:
2,203
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling 2,203 model year 2003 through 2010 all american rear engine school buses equipped with optional plug style vandal locks manufactured from july 16, 2003 through april 10, 2009. the plug style vandal lock is not wired to inhibit the starter at the ignition switch when the vandal lock is in the locked position. these buses fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 217, "bus emergency exits and window retention and release."
Consequence:
The vehicles can be started and driven even when an owner may think they cannot.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and repair the buses free of charge. the safety recall began on june 25, 2009. owner may contact blue bird at 1-478-422-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign no. r09pe.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
09V213000 on 06/10/2009
Component:
Steering
Manufactured:
07/21/2008 - 11/21/2008
Affected:
442
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling 442 model year 2008 and 2009 all american school buses manufactured from july 22 to november 22, 2008. the bolts that mount the steering gear to the frame may not have been properly torqued.
Consequence:
Improperly torqued bolts may cause the steering gear to separate from the chassis frame resulting in a loss of steering control, possibly resulting in a crash.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and repair the buses free of charge. the safety recall began on june 30, 2009. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-422-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign no. r09pf.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
09V285000 on 07/22/2009
Component:
Service brakes, air:supply:hoses, lines/piping, and fittings
Manufactured:
02/26/2007 - 07/01/2009
Affected:
1,709
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling 1,709 model year 2009 and 2010 all american front engine school buses manufactured from february 27, 2007 through july 2, 2009, equipped with "07" engines, air brakes and spring suspensions. when the bus is loaded with passengers, the springs compress which could allow the air brake hose to contact the drive line.
Consequence:
Repeated contact of the air brake hose on the drive line may cause the air brake hose to rupture reducing the braking capacity which could result in a vehicle crash.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and repair the buses free of charge. the safety recall began on september 23, 2009. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-422-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign no. r09pr.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
09V328000 on 08/12/2009
Component:
Seats
Manufactured:
01/29/2003 - 05/06/2009
Affected:
37,095
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2004 through 2010 all american, vision, micro bird, and conventional school buses manufactured between january 30, 2003 and may 7, 2009. incorrect offset leg barrier pads or 2/3 seat back pads may have been installed. buses with incorrect pads installed fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 222, "school bus passenger seating and crash protection."
Consequence:
In the event of a crash, there is an increased risk of injury to the seat occupant(s).
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and the buses will be repaired free of charge. the safety recall began on september 18, 2009. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r09pm.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
09V335000 on 08/24/2009
Component:
Other:school bus stop arm assembly
Manufactured:
04/17/2008 - 02/10/2009
Affected:
3,736
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2008 and 2009 all american, vision, and micro bird school buses manufactured between april 18, 2008 and february 11, 2009, equipped with specialty manufacturing, inc. (smi) 000290 led light kits. a change to the wire used in the led light kits may reduce the effective life of the lights used on the stop arms. the lights may stop functioning without warning.
Consequence:
Should the led lights stop functioning, visibility of a stopped bus would be decreased, possibly endangering a child or pedestrian to injury by passing vehicles.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and the buses will be repaired free of charge. repairs will be performed by smi. the safety recall began on september 24, 2009. owners may contact smi warranty service at 1-800-951-7867 or blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number r09ps.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
10V133000 on 04/05/2010
Component:
Equipment adaptive
Manufactured:
12/12/2007 - 01/17/2010
Affected:
1,622
Defect:
Blue bird has notified nhtsa about a defect in certain model year 2008 through 2011 all american, conventional, and micro bird school buses manufactured from december 13, 2007 through january 18, 2010 equipped with ricon model s or k series public use wheelchair lifts. the restraint belt on these lifts was designed to prevent the lift from moving, unless the tongue of the belt is fully engaged and latched in the buckle. ricon has discovered, however, that it is possible for the operator to insert the belt tongue into the buckle without fully engaging the latching mechanism. in this case, the restraint belt would appear to be latched, and the operator could run the lift. if the restraint belt tongue is not fully engaged into the restraint belt buckle, and latched, the lift may operate with an occupant on the platform.
Consequence:
The user of the lift could be injured should the lift move without the restraint belt properly buckled.
Correction:
Blue bird is working with ricon and ricon will be handling the remedy for this campaign. please see ricon's defect report 09e-060. ricon will provide customers with a warning decal and a dvd-based training aid. the safety recall began on april 27, 2010. owners may contact ricon at 1-818-267-3000 or blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10rt.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
10V134000 on 04/05/2010
Component:
Equipment adaptive
Manufactured:
12/15/2007 - 12/20/2009
Affected:
23
Defect:
Blue bird has notified nhtsa about a defect in certain model year 2008 through 2010 all american, conventional, and micro bird transi buses manufactured from december 16, 2007 through december 21, 2009 equipped with ricon model s or k series public use wheelchair lifts. the restraint belt on these lifts was designed to prevent the lift from moving, unless the tongue of the belt is fully engaged and latched in the buckle. ricon has discovered, however, that it is possible for the operator to insert the belt tongue into the buckle without fully engaging the latching mechanism. in this case, the restraint belt would appear to be latched, and the operator could run the lift. if the restraint belt tongue is not fully engaged into the restraint belt buckle, and latched, the lift may operate with an occupant on the platform.
Consequence:
The user of the lift could be injured should the lift move without the restraint belt properly buckled.
Correction:
Blue bird is working with ricon and ricon will be handling the remedy for this campaign. please see ricon's defect report 09e-060. ricon will provide customers with a warning decal and a dvd-based training aid. the safety recall began on april 27, 2010. owners may contact ricon at 1-818-267-3000 or blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10rt.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
10V289000 on 06/27/2010
Component:
Engine and engine cooling
Manufactured:
05/22/2007 - 03/08/2010
Affected:
3,686
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2010 all american and vision model school buses manufactured from may 23, 2007 through march 9, 2010, equipped with caterpillar c7 engines. the #5 and #6 fuel lines may crack at the fastening point to the common fuel rail and cause a fuel leak.
Consequence:
A fuel leak, in the presence of an ignition source, can result in a vehicle fire.
Correction:
Blue bird is working with caterpiller to notify owners and repairs will be performed by authorized caterpillar dealers free of charge. owners may contact caterpillar toll-free at 1-800-447-4986 or blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10rz.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
10V290000 on 06/27/2010
Component:
Engine and engine cooling
Manufactured:
05/16/2007 - 11/12/2008
Affected:
103
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2010 all american, vision, and excel 102 model non school buses manufactured from may 17, 2007 through november 13, 2008, equipped with caterpillar c7 engines. the #5 and #6 fuel lines may crack at the fastening point to the common fuel rail and cause a fuel leak.
Consequence:
A fuel leak, in the presence of an ignition source, can result in a vehicle fire.
Correction:
Blue bird is working with caterpillar to notify owners and repairs will be performed by authorized caterpillar dealers free of charge. the safety recall began on september 9, 2010. owners may contact caterpillar toll-free at 1-800-447-4986 or blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10rz.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
10V380000 on 08/19/2010
Component:
Engine and engine cooling
Manufactured:
07/15/2006 - 08/02/2010
Affected:
466
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2007 through 2010 all american non school buses manufactured from july 16, 2006 through august 3, 2010 equipped with cummins isb-02, isb-07, and isb-10 engines. an incorrect combination of flat washer and serrated nut was installed on the bolt that secures the starter cable retaining clamp to its attaching bracket at the front of the engine above the engine cooling fan. the flat washer prevents the serrated nut from locking against the attaching bracket. over time, the serrated nut may back off allowing the starter cable to fall and contact the fan hub while in operation.
Consequence:
If the starter cable contacts the fan hub while the fan hub is in operation, the cable covering may abrade which could result in a direct short. a short could potentially result in a vehicle fire.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and repair the buses free of charge. the safety recall began on september 24, 2010. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10sl.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
10V379000 on 08/19/2010
Component:
Engine and engine cooling
Manufactured:
05/28/2006 - 08/06/2010
Affected:
3,992
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2007 through 2010 all american school buses manufactured from may 29, 2006 through august 7, 2010 equipped with cummins isb-02, isb-07, and isb-10 engines. an incorrect combination of flat washer and serrated nut was installed on the bolt that secures the starter cable retaining clamp to its attaching bracket at the front of the engine above the engine cooling fan. the flat washer prevents the serrated nut from locking against the attaching bracket. over time, the serrated nut may back off allowing the starter cable to fall and contact the fan hub while in operation.
Consequence:
If the starter cable contacts the fan hub while the fan hub is in operation, the cable covering may abrade which could result in a direct short. a short could potentially result in a vehicle fire.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and repair the buses free of charge. the safety recall began on september 24, 2010. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10sl.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
11V351000 on 07/10/2011
Component:
Parking brake
Manufactured:
09/21/2006 - 08/06/2010
Affected:
121
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2007 through 2011 all american school buses manufactured from september 22, 2006, through august 7, 2010, and equipped with optional park brake valve interlock feature. the optional park brake interlock valve may have been plumbed incorrectly which could result in inadvertent park brake application without prior warning.
Consequence:
Inadvertent application of the park brake valve could cause a vehicle crash which could result in property damage, personal injury, or death.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and dealers will repair the buses free of charge. all of the buses have been inspected and, if needed, repaired. therefore, an owner notification letter will not be issued for this campaign. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r11tf.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
11V499000 on 10/13/2011
Component:
Seats:barriers
Manufactured:
11/14/2005 - 05/02/2011
Affected:
54
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2006 through 2012 all american, 2006 through 2011 vision, and 2006 conventional school buses manufactured between september 19, 2005, and may 3, 2011, equipped with 2-passenger seats installed forward of the 39" barrier. in the event of a crash, the barrier may make contact with the 2-passenger seat installed forward of the barrier. accordingly, these buses fail to conform with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 222, "school bus passenger seating and crash protection."
Consequence:
The seat occupants may be seriously injured in the event of a crash.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will repair the buses free of charge. the safety recall began on january 18, 2012. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r11tq.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
11V569000 on 12/01/2011
Component:
Fuel system, diesel
Manufactured:
04/11/2006 - 06/26/2011
Affected:
250
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2007 through 2012 all american rear engine school buses manufactured from april 12, 2006, through june 27, 2011, and equipped with a 60 gallon fuel tank. the tank return line can develop a leak that exceeds the amount of fuel spillage allowed. accordingly, these buses fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 301, "fuel system integrity."
Consequence:
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can result in a fire.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will repair the buses free of charge. the safety recall began on march 9, 2012. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r11tr.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
12V153000 on 04/08/2012
Component:
Equipment adaptive
Manufactured:
01/16/2008 - 10/20/2010
Affected:
125
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2009 through 2011 all american, vision, and micro bird school buses equipped with braun vista-2 wheelchair lifts. over time and with frequent use, the roll stop latches on the outer barrier may become bent or misaligned.
Consequence:
A wheelchair occupant may defeat or ride over the insufficiently latched roll stop. if this occurs when the lift platform is in an elevated position, the wheelchair's occupant could fall and sustain injury.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and the repairs will be performed by authorized braun dealers free of charge. the safety recall began on april 26, 2012. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r12tu.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
13V125000 on 04/08/2013
Component:
Electrical system
Manufactured:
08/08/2007 - 06/08/2010
Affected:
276
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2011 all american rear engine school buses manufactured from august 9, 2007, through june 9, 2010, powered by cummins isb07 engines. in the affected vehicles, the grid heater power cable may be improperly routed, which could result in contact with the chassis frame rail.
Consequence:
If the cable contacts the chassis frame rail it could potentially chafe against the frame thereby creating a direct short which could result in a fire.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the buses for proper positioning of the grid heater power cable. any cables found contacting the chassis frame rail will have the grid heater cable repositioned to prevent further contact. any damaged cables found will be replaced. the repairs will be made free of charge. the recall began on may 3, 2013. on august 15, 2014, blue bird sent out renoticiation letters to owners regarding the recall. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242. blue bird's recall campaign number is r13wd.
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.
Campaign:
13V125000 on 04/08/2013
Component:
Electrical system:wiring
Manufactured:
08/08/2007 - 06/08/2010
Affected:
276
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2011 all american rear engine school buses manufactured from august 9, 2007, through june 9, 2010, powered by cummins isb07 engines. in the affected vehicles, the grid heater power cable may be improperly routed, which could result in contact with the chassis frame rail.
Consequence:
If the cable contacts the chassis frame rail it could potentially chafe against the frame thereby creating a direct short which could result in a fire.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the buses for proper positioning of the grid heater power cable. any cables found contacting the chassis frame rail will have the grid heater cable repositioned to prevent further contact. any damaged cables found will be replaced. the repairs will be made free of charge. the recall began on may 3, 2013. on august 15, 2014, blue bird sent out renoticiation letters to owners regarding the recall. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242. blue bird's recall campaign number is r13wd.
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.
Campaign:
13V126000 on 04/08/2013
Component:
Electrical system
Manufactured:
12/07/2007 - 03/02/2010
Affected:
17
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2011 all american rear engine, non-school, transit buses manufactured from august 9, 2007, through june 9, 2010, and powered by cummins isb07 engines. in the affected vehicles, the grid heater power cable may be improperly routed, which could result in contact with the chassis frame rail.
Consequence:
If the cable contacts the chassis frame rail it could potentially chafe against the frame thereby creating a direct short which could result in a fire.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the buses for proper positioning of the grid heater power cable. any cables found contacting the chassis frame rail will have the grid heater cable repositioned to prevent further contact. any damaged cables found will be replaced. the repairs will be made free of charge. notification to owners began on may 3, 2013. on august 15, 2014, blue bird sent out renoticiation letters to owners regarding the recall. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242. blue bird's recall campaign number is r13wd.
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.
Campaign:
13V126000 on 04/08/2013
Component:
Electrical system:wiring
Manufactured:
12/07/2007 - 03/02/2010
Affected:
17
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2011 all american rear engine, non-school, transit buses manufactured from august 9, 2007, through june 9, 2010, and powered by cummins isb07 engines. in the affected vehicles, the grid heater power cable may be improperly routed, which could result in contact with the chassis frame rail.
Consequence:
If the cable contacts the chassis frame rail it could potentially chafe against the frame thereby creating a direct short which could result in a fire.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the buses for proper positioning of the grid heater power cable. any cables found contacting the chassis frame rail will have the grid heater cable repositioned to prevent further contact. any damaged cables found will be replaced. the repairs will be made free of charge. notification to owners began on may 3, 2013. on august 15, 2014, blue bird sent out renoticiation letters to owners regarding the recall. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242. blue bird's recall campaign number is r13wd.
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.
Campaign:
13V332000 on 08/05/2013
Component:
Structure
Manufactured:
03/09/2006 - 06/17/2013
Affected:
172
Defect:
Blue bird body company is recalling certain model year 2007-2014 all american and vision school buses manufactured march 10, 2006, through june 18, 2013; and equipped with optional transit sliding windows. joint adhesive may not have been applied at the interior and exterior body window panel joints. without the adhesive, these vehicles fail to conform to the standards of federal motor vehicle safety standard (fmvss) no. 221, "school bus body joint strength."
Consequence:
In the event of a vehicle crash, there is an increased risk that the window panels may separate and fall onto occupants causing injury.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will install additional rivets at the window panel joints, free of charge. the recall began on august 28, 2013. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-825-2021. blue bird's recall number is r13wm.
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.
Campaign:
14V083000 on 03/03/2014
Component:
Engine and engine cooling:engine
Manufactured:
12/07/2008 - 11/14/2013
Affected:
695
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2009-2015 all american rear engine school buses manufactured from december 8, 2008, through november 15, 2013, and equipped with certain cummins westport model isl g engines. condensation in the intake manifold may freeze during cold weather conditions and interfere with the proper operation of the intake manifold pressure sensor.
Consequence:
The improper operation of the sensor could induce elevated exhaust temperatures or flames from the exhaust pipe, increasing the risk of a vehicle fire or burn injury to a person near the exhaust pipe.
Correction:
Cummins and cummins westport will notify owners, and authorized cummins service facilities will upload a new ecm calibration, free of charge. the recall began on april 12, 2014. customers may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242 or cummins inc. at 1-800-343-7357. blue bird's number for this recall is r14xb.
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.
Campaign:
14V215000 on 04/24/2014
Component:
Engine and engine cooling:engine
Manufactured:
06/22/2010 - 05/23/2012
Affected:
20
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2009-2015 all american rear engine non-school buses manufactured from june 23, 2010, through may 24, 2012, and equipped with certain cummins westport model isl g compressed natural gas engines. condensation in the intake manifold may freeze during cold weather conditions and interfere with the proper operation of the intake manifold pressure sensor.
Consequence:
The improper operation of the sensor could induce elevated exhaust temperatures or flames from the exhaust pipe, increasing the risk of a vehicle fire or burn injury to a person near the exhaust pipe.
Correction:
Cummins and cummins westport has notified owners, and authorized cummins service facilities will upload a new ecm calibration, free of charge. the recall began on april 12, 2014. customers may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242 or cummins inc. at 1-800-343-7357. blue bird's number for this recall is r14xb.
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.
Campaign:
14V314000 on 06/11/2014
Component:
Engine and engine cooling:cooling system:hose
Manufactured:
05/08/2007 - 11/11/2012
Affected:
587
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2008-2013 all american rear engine non-school buses manufactured may 9, 2007, to november 12, 2012. due to the design of the thermostat, a heater hose may rupture which could result in hot coolant entering the passenger compartment.
Consequence:
Hot coolant leaking into the passenger compartment increases the risk of injury to the passengers.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will replace the thermostat and change the passenger compartment heater supply hose, free of charge. the recall began on july 15, 2014. owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242. blue bird's number for this recall is r14xf.
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.
Campaign:
14V313000 on 06/11/2014
Component:
Engine and engine cooling:cooling system
Manufactured:
04/02/2007 - 12/14/2012
Affected:
1,935
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2008-2013 all american rear engine school buses manufactured april 3, 2007, to december 15, 2012. due to the design of the thermostat, a heater hose may rupture which could result in hot coolant entering the passenger compartment.
Consequence:
Hot coolant leaking into the passenger compartment increases the risk of injury to the passengers.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will replace the thermostat and change the passenger compartment heater supply hose, free of charge. the recall began on july 15, 2014. owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242. blue bird's number for this recall is r14xf.
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.
Campaign:
14V510000 on 08/18/2014
Component:
Equipment adaptive
Affected:
5,114
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2007-2015 all american and vision, 2007-2011 micro bird, and 2007-2008 conventional school buses equipped with certain model s2005, s2010, s5005, s5010, s5505, and s5510 wheelchair lifts manufactured by ricon corporation. the platform side plate of the affected wheelchair lifts may crack.
Consequence:
If the platform side plates crack, the lift platform can separate from the lift and come to rest against the vehicle's lift door. when the doors are opened, the platform may fall out, increasing the risk of injury to the lift operator.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners to take buses to a ricon dealer or service center who will install supplemental platform support bumpers. any platform that has already started cracking will be replaced, free of charge. the recall began on october 1, 2014. owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242 or ricon customer service at 1-800-322-2884. blue bird's number for this recall is r14xn.
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.
Campaign:
14V511000 on 08/18/2014
Component:
Equipment adaptive
Affected:
90
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2007-2015 all american, 2007-2010 micro bird, and 2007-2014 vision non-school buses equipped with certain model s2005, s2010, s5005, s5010, s5505, and s5510 wheelchair lifts manufactured by ricon corporation. the platform side plate of the affected wheelchair lifts may crack.
Consequence:
If the platform side plates crack, the lift platform can separate from the lift and come to rest against the vehicle's lift door. when the doors are opened, the platform may fall out, increasing the risk of injury to the lift operator.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners to take buses to a ricon dealer or service center who will install supplemental platform support bumpers. any platform that has already started cracking will be replaced, free of charge. the recall began on october 1, 2014. owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242 or ricon customer service at 1-800-322-2884. blue bird's number for this recall is r14xn.
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.
Campaign:
15V294000 on 05/18/2015
Component:
Engine and engine cooling:engine
Manufactured:
12/06/2008 - 05/10/2015
Affected:
34
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2009-2016 all american rear engine non school buses manufactured december 7, 2008, to may 11, 2015, and equipped with certain cummins westport isl g engines. excessive engine crankcase pressures may cause the 90-degree elbow of the vent tube assembly to detach from the crankcase ventilation breather, possibly allowing engine oil to come into contact with hot surfaces.
Consequence:
If engine oil comes into contact with a hot surface, there is an increased risk of a fire.
Correction:
Cummins will notify owners on behalf of blue bird, and cummins service centers will administer the repairs which include securing the ends of the 90-degree elbow and reprogramming the electronic control module (ecm) with software that can adjust the engine output under misfire conditions to limit crankcase pressures. these repairs will be performed free of charge. the recall began on june 12, 2015. owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242 or cummins inc. at 1-800-343-7357. blue bird's number for this recall is r15ye-nsb.
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.
Campaign:
15V293000 on 05/18/2015
Component:
Engine and engine cooling:engine
Manufactured:
12/06/2008 - 05/10/2015
Affected:
840
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2009-2016 all american rear engine school buses manufactured december 7, 2008, to may 11, 2015, and equipped with certain cummins westport isl g engines. excessive engine crankcase pressures may cause the 90-degree elbow of the vent tube assembly to detach from the crankcase ventilation breather, possibly allowing engine oil to come into contact with hot surfaces.
Consequence:
If engine oil comes into contact with a hot surface, there is an increased risk of a fire.
Correction:
Cummins will notify owners on behalf of blue bird, and cummins service centers will administer the repairs which include securing the ends of the 90-degree elbow and reprogramming the electronic control module (ecm) with software that can adjust the engine output under misfire conditions to limit crankcase pressures. these repairs will be performed free of charge. the recall began on june 12, 2015. owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242 or cummins inc. at 1-800-343-7357. blue bird's number for this recall is r15ye-sb.
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.
Campaign:
15V731000 on 11/03/2015
Component:
Equipment adaptive
Manufactured:
10/08/2006 - 04/09/2014
Affected:
90
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2007-2015 all american and vision and 2007-2011 micro bird transit buses equipped with certain model s2005, s2010, s5005, s5010, s5505, and s5510 wheelchair lifts manufactured january 1, 2006, to august 25, 2014 by the ricon corporation. the affected lifts are equipped with folding link arms that may have pivot holes that are too big, allowing the bearings to move out of position.
Consequence:
If the bearings move out of position, the stowed platform may have excessive movement resulting in failure of the platform mounting. this failure could cause the wheel chair lift platform to fall out of the vehicle when the doors are opened, increasing the risk of injury for the lift operator.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and ricon dealers will inspect the link arms for damage or for displaced bearings. the platform will be inspected for cracks. any damaged parts will be replaced, free of charge. the recall began on december 1, 2015. owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242, or ricon customer service at 1-800-322-2884.
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.
Campaign:
15V730000 on 11/03/2015
Component:
Equipment adaptive
Manufactured:
02/21/2006 - 07/25/2014
Affected:
5,114
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2007-2015 all american, vision, 2007-2011 micro bird, and 2007-2008 conventional school buses, equipped with certain model s2005, s2010, s5005, s5010, s5505, and s5510 wheelchair lifts manufactured january 1, 2006, to august 25, 2014 by the ricon corporation. the affected lifts are equipped with folding link arms that may have pivot holes that are too big, allowing the bearings to move out of position.
Consequence:
If the bearings move out of position, the stowed platform may have excessive movement resulting in failure of the platform mounting. this failure could cause the wheel chair lift platform to fall out of the vehicle when the doors are opened, increasing the risk of injury for the lift operator.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and ricon dealers will inspect the link arms for damage or for displaced bearings. the platform will be inspected for cracks. any damaged parts will be replaced, free of charge. the recall began on december 1, 2015. owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242, or ricon customer service at 1-800-322-2884.
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.
Campaign:
18V801000 on 11/15/2018
Component:
Equipment
Manufactured:
09/18/2006 - 09/07/2018
Affected:
86
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain 2007-2019 blue bird all american ambulance buses. the clamps that secure the stacked stretchers may fail from repeated use or from high loads.
Consequence:
If the clamps fail with patients in the stretchers, it can increase the risk of injury.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will install redesigned clamps, free of charge. the recall is expected to begin december 13, 2018. owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242. blue bird's number for this recall is r18zq-nsb.
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.

2009 BLUE BIRD ALL AMERICAN TSBs (13)

Bulletin:
SB-S0701
Component:
061200 engine and engine cooling:engine:diesel
Summary:
Blue bird bus: re-issue service update engine coolants. the cooling system on the buses be properly maintained and monitored to insure proper operation of your cooling system. *pe
Bulletin:
SU-S-0706
Component:
220000 seats
Summary:
Blue bird: information is being provided regarding maintenance for vehicles equipped with aluminum seat floor tracks. *pe
Bulletin:
SB-S-70-LJ
Component:
062100 engine and engine cooling:cooling system:radiator assembly
Summary:
Blue bird: see document search button for owner letter. information on excessive cycling of engine cooling fan and shutter and how to install thermo switches for cooling system and charge air system. *pe
Bulletin:
SB-S-08-NT
Component:
021600 suspension:front:wheel bearing
Summary:
Blue bird: see document search button for owner letter. some model year buses may have an issue with installed petroleum wheelbearing lubricant instead of synthetic lubricant for front steer and/or rear drive axle wheelbearing.
Bulletin:
SU-S-0802
Component:
061000 engine and engine cooling:engine
Summary:
Blue bird: update information on some model year buses regarding the electronic control modules (ecm) recalibration of isb and isc engines. *pe
Bulletin:
SB-S-10-SA
Component:
061000 engine and engine cooling:engine
Summary:
Blue bird bus: see document search button for owner letter. on certain model year buses, engine coolant may leak, due to low coolant sensor, from surge tank to engine harness connector and wick, through to engine ecm and other component
Bulletin:
SB-S-10-SE
Component:
220000 seats
Summary:
Blue bird bus: see document search button for owner letter. on some rear engine buses, the center leg of c. e. white student safety seat, missing the required mounting bolt. *pe
Bulletin:
SB-S-10-SB
Component:
030000 service brakes, hydraulic
Summary:
Blue bird bus: see document search button for owner letter. on certain model year buses, the wabco hydraulic brake modulator motor may corrode due to motor cover filling up with water. *pe
Bulletin:
SB-S-10-SJ
Component:
353600 equipment:air conditioner
Summary:
Blue bird bus: see document search button for owner letter. on some model year buses, an incorrect compressor oil type information may have been stamped on bitzer a/c compressor air conditioner data plate. *pe
Bulletin:
SU-1503
Component:
356000 equipment adaptive
Summary:
Blue bird: correct information provided for the front hub torque specification, not found in manuals for certain buses for hub and rotor assembly and front installation. model 2005-14 vision, all-american and activity. *pe
Bulletin:
SU1702
Component:
117000 digital instrument panel
Summary:
The intent of su1702 is to provide service part replacement instructions for our new ametek instrument cluster. the new cluster will be in full production beginning june 5, 2017. during the time between now and june 5, 2017 blue bird will b
Bulletin:
SM1601
Component:
355200 equipment:other:owners/service/other manual
Summary:
Blue bird troubleshooting guides: blue bird announcement of the addition of troubleshooting guides for assisting in the service of the blue bird products. these troubleshooting guides are available on the vantage website.
Bulletin:
SM1608
Component:
355200 equipment:other:owners/service/other manual
Summary:
New blue bird support center - technical bus support: dealer memo to announce the new on-line blue bird support center for technical bus support requests.

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