2008 BLUE BIRD VISION Recalls (32)

Campaign:
06V464000 on 12/05/2006
Component:
Steering:column
Manufactured:
10/22/2006 - 11/20/2006
Affected:
227
Defect:
Certain 2008 blue bird vision school buses built from october 23 through november 21, 2006. a temporary bolt was used to secure the steering wheel during the manufacturing process. the temporary bolt was to be removed and replaced with a permanent bolt with a lock coating during the final assembly stage. the temporary bolt was not removed and replaced on the subject units, but instead the bolt was reused.
Consequence:
Reuse of the attaching screw could allow the steering wheel to loosen during operation which could result in a vehicle crash causing injury or death to occupants.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and repair the buses by replacing the screw with a new attaching screw free of charge. the recall began on december 11, 2006. owners may contact blue bird at 478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird recall no. r06ld.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:
07V021000 on 01/28/2007
Component:
Visibility:windshield wiper/washer:switch/wiring
Manufactured:
10/15/2006 - 01/17/2007
Affected:
882
Defect:
Certain 2007 and 2008 my blue bird vision school buses manufactured between october 16, 2006, and january 18, 2007. continuous resetting of the circuit breaker when the wiper/washer is operating in the wash/wipe mode may cause failure in the wiring circuit resulting in power being applied to the ground which could cause the circuit breaker to overheat and fail resulting in a stalled wiper.
Consequence:
Failure of the wiper in inclement weather conditions may cause a vehicle crash, possibly resulting in property damage, personal injury or death.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and repair the buses free of charge. the recall is expected to begin on february 28, 2007. owners can contact blue bird at 478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird recall no. r07lh.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:
07V035000 on 02/07/2007
Component:
Equipment adaptive
Manufactured:
02/08/2006 - 10/26/2006
Affected:
632
Defect:
Certain blue bird 2007 and 2008 vision school buses manufactured between february 9 and october 27, 2006. the lift inner barrier interlock switch system may not detect the presence of a passenger on the inner barrier and allow the platform to move down more than one inch below floor level while occupied which does not conform to federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 403, platform lift systems for motor vehicles.
Consequence:
In the event this condition occurs during passenger operations it may be possible for the wheelchair lift to tip backwards onto the platform if the user is backing onto the lift from inside the vehicle and has the small front wheels fully or partially on the inner barrier when the platform was lowered. a standee could loose his or her balance if they were positioned fully or partly on the inner barrier when the platform is lowered. either condition could cause personal injury.
Correction:
Blue bird is working with ricon to repair the buses free of charge (please see 06e101). the recall is expected to begin on or about february 26, 2007. owners can contact blue bird at 478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird recall no. r07lk.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:
07V275000 on 06/26/2007
Component:
Parking brake
Affected:
4,530
Defect:
Certain my 2007 and 2008 blue bird vision and all american school and transit buses manufactured between december 1, 2005, and may 24, 2007, and equipped with bendix sr-7 spring brake modulating valves. the internal rubber check valve may leak causing a delay in the application of the spring brakes to park the vehicle after the operator pulls the dash valve button.
Consequence:
The delayed parking brake application can occur without warning, leading to unintended vehicle rollaway.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and provide a free remedy. the recall began on september 30, 2007. owners can contact blue bird at 478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird recall no. r07lx.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:
07V338000 on 08/02/2007
Component:
Engine and engine cooling:engine:diesel
Manufactured:
06/05/2007 - 08/26/2007
Affected:
438
Defect:
Certain blue bird my 2008 all american and vision school buses manufactured between june 6 and july 27, 2007. a fuel pump failure will dilute the engine oil with fuel and cause loss of throttle control and excessive smoke.
Consequence:
Either condition could result in a vehicle crash.
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 august 2007. owners can contact caterpillar at 1-800-447-4986 or blue bird at 478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird recall no. r07mf.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:
07V407000 on 09/06/2007
Component:
Engine and engine cooling:engine
Manufactured:
06/05/2007 - 09/03/2007
Affected:
1,339
Defect:
Certain 2008 blue bird vision school buses manufactured from june 6 through september 4, 2007. the oil fill cap may separate from the oil fill tube allowing engine oil to be emitted from the tube. oil could wet the left front brake shoes/pads resulting in reduced braking capacity.
Consequence:
A vehicle crash could occur.
Correction:
Blue bird is advising the owners to remove their buses from service until they have the buses repaired and to contact a caterpillar dealer for an interim repair. the interim repair consists of installing two screws through the oil fill tube to retain the oil fill cap in place. caterpillar will issue a separate recall notification letter to owners on or about september 17, 2007 that will instruct owners to contact a caterpillar dealer to schedule an appointment to have a new oil fill tube installed as a permanent remedy. the recall began on september 7, 2007. owners can contact blue bird at 478-822-2242 or caterpillar at 800-447-4986.
Notes:
Blue bird recall no. r07mj.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:
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:
08V312000 on 07/10/2008
Component:
Service brakes, hydraulic
Manufactured:
01/10/2004 - 04/21/2008
Affected:
5,422
Defect:
The hydraulic brake hoses from the master cylinder to the chassis frame may have been improperly routed or retained on certain 2004 through 2009 my blue bird vision conventional school and transit buses manufactured from january 11, 2004 through april 22, 2008.
Consequence:
Improper routing or retention of the hydraulic brake hoses may result in brake hoses chaffing against the bus body and/or chassis components which could cause a leak in the hydraulic brake system resulting in reduced braking capacity which could result in a crash.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and inspect and repair the buses free of charge. the recall began on august 8, 2008. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird recall no. r08nb.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:
08V312000 on 07/10/2008
Component:
Service brakes, hydraulic
Manufactured:
01/10/2004 - 04/21/2008
Affected:
5,422
Defect:
The hydraulic brake hoses from the master cylinder to the chassis frame may have been improperly routed or retained on certain 2004 through 2009 my blue bird vision conventional school and transit buses manufactured from january 11, 2004 through april 22, 2008.
Consequence:
Improper routing or retention of the hydraulic brake hoses may result in brake hoses chaffing against the bus body and/or chassis components which could cause a leak in the hydraulic brake system resulting in reduced braking capacity which could result in a crash.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and inspect and repair the buses free of charge. the recall began on august 8, 2008. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird recall no. r08nb.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:
09V055000 on 02/16/2009
Component:
Electrical system:battery:cables
Manufactured:
03/28/2006 - 12/02/2007
Affected:
4,591
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling 4,591 my 2007 and 2008 vision conventional school buses manufactured from march 29, 2006 through december 3, 2007, equipped with caterpillar c7 engines. the main battery power cable may chafe against the engine components at the rear of the engine.
Consequence:
Chafing of the cable can result in a direct short with potential for fire.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and inspect and correct the buses free of charge. the recall began on april 2, 2009. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall no. r09pb.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:
09V075000 on 03/08/2009
Component:
Engine and engine cooling:cooling system:fan
Manufactured:
01/17/2007 - 10/28/2008
Affected:
3,419
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling 3,419 my 2008 and 2009 vision conventional school buses manufactured from january 18, 2007 through october 29, 2008, equipped with caterpillar c7 and c7 07 engines. incorrect bolts and/or spacers may have been installed to attach the fan blade to the fan clutch.
Consequence:
As a result, the fan blade may separate from the clutch and potentially cause property damage or personal injury to persons in or near the front of the bus. the vehicle should not be serviced with the hood open and the engine running until the bolts/spacers have been inspected and, if needed, replaced.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and dealers will repair the buses free of charge. the safety recall began on april 7, 2009. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall number r09pd.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:
09V251000 on 07/05/2009
Component:
Seats
Manufactured:
09/28/2007 - 05/01/2009
Affected:
69
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling 69 model year 2008 through 2010 micro bird and vision school buses manufactured from september 29, 2007 through may 2, 2009, equipped with optional 34 inch offset barrier. the offset leg of the barrier frame may have been located incorrectly and incorrect padding may have been installed on the 34 inch offset barriers which fails to comply with the leg protection zone requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 222, "school bus passenger seating and crash protection."
Consequence:
Vehicle occupants may suffer injuries in the event of a vehicle crash.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and replace the barrier pads with a new designed pad free of charge. the safety recall began on august 12, 2009. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign no. r09pj.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:
09V284000 on 07/22/2009
Component:
Steering:hydraulic power assist system
Manufactured:
03/26/2007 - 06/09/2009
Affected:
7,772
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling 7,772 model year 2008 through 2010 vision school buses manufactured from march 27, 2007 through june 10, 2009. the lid gasket on the power steering reservoir may deteriorate and contaminate the power steering fluid which could result in a loss of power steering assist.
Consequence:
Loss of power steering assist could result in a vehicle crash.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and repair the buses free of charge. the safety recall campaign began on august 11, 2009. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird recall campaign no. r09ph.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:
07/13/2003 - 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:
10V170000 on 04/22/2010
Component:
Electrical system
Manufactured:
09/18/2003 - 07/01/2008
Affected:
195
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2004 through 2009 vision non-school buses manufactured from september 19, 2003 through july 2, 2008. the power cables running to the power distribution unit stud and driver's control module stud may have been installed with the lug (eyelet) flat side up. when this condition exists, vibration may wear the insulation permitting direct contact between the bare lug and the pdu or dcm which could cause a direct short in the electrical system.
Consequence:
This condition could result in a fire.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and repair the buses as necessary free of charge. the safety recall began on may 26, 2020. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10rw. 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:
10V169000 on 04/22/2010
Component:
Electrical system
Manufactured:
01/29/2003 - 09/23/2008
Affected:
18,821
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2004 through 2009 vision school buses manufactured from january 30, 2003 through september 24, 2008. the power cables running to the power distribution unit stud and driver's control module stud may have been installed with the lug (eyelet) flat side up. when this condition exists, vibration may wear the insulation permitting direct contact between the bare lug and the pdu or dcm which could cause a direct short in the electrical system.
Consequence:
This condition could result in a fire.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and repair the buses as necessary free of charge. the safety recall began may 26, 2020. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10rw.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:
11V175000 on 03/14/2011
Component:
Electrical system: instrument panel
Affected:
61
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2010 vision non school buses. the dash instrument panel abs indicator light does not illuminate when the abs circuit is disconnected at the main abs module. accordingly, these buses fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 105, "hydraulic and electric brake systems," and fmvss no. 121, "air brake systems."
Consequence:
In the event the abs circuit disconnects from the main abs module, the bus operator would be unaware of the failure of the abs system and the associated reduced braking function, increasing the risk of a crash.
Correction:
Blue bird is currently working with stoneridge to produce software that dealers can use to reprogram the dash instrument panel. blue bird will notify owners once the software update becomes available. the affected buses will be repaired free of charge. the safety recall began on june 23, 2011. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r11sz.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:
11V174000 on 03/14/2011
Component:
Electrical system: instrument panel
Affected:
13,645
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2007 through 2011 vision school buses. the dash instrument panel abs indicator light does not illuminate when the abs circuit is disconnected at the main abs module. accordingly, these buses fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 105, "hydraulic and electric brake systems," and fmvss no. 121, "air brake systems."
Consequence:
In the event the abs circuit disconnects from the main abs module, the bus operator would be unaware of the failure of the abs system and the associated reduced braking function, increasing the risk of a crash.
Correction:
Blue bird is currently working with stoneridge to produce software that dealers can use to reprogram the dash instrument panel. blue bird will notify owners once the software update becomes available. the affected buses will be repaired free of charge. the safety recall began on june 23, 2011. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r11sz.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:
10/20/2005 - 08/25/2010
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:
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:
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:
15V731000 on 11/03/2015
Component:
Equipment adaptive
Manufactured:
09/08/2006 - 07/12/2013
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:
02/07/2006 - 08/03/2014
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:
16V100000 on 02/22/2016
Component:
Electrical system:battery:cables
Manufactured:
05/09/2007 - 03/04/2008
Affected:
733
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2008-2009 vision school buses manufactured from may 10, 2007, through march 5, 2008 and equipped with caterpillar c707 engines. in the affected buses, the positive starter cable may be incorrectly attached to the same power distribution unit (pdu) stud as the battery cable, exposing the smaller battery cable to a higher current draw during cranking.
Consequence:
Exposure to high current draw may cause the battery cable to overheat, melt the wire insulation and increase the risk of a short circuit and a fire.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will relocate the starter cable to the chassis power stud. any damaged battery cables will be replaced. these repairs will be made free of charge. the recall began on march 10, 2016. owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242. blue bird's recall number for this campaign is r16yl-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:
16V100000 on 02/22/2016
Component:
Electrical system:starter assembly
Manufactured:
05/09/2007 - 03/04/2008
Affected:
733
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2008-2009 vision school buses manufactured from may 10, 2007, through march 5, 2008 and equipped with caterpillar c707 engines. in the affected buses, the positive starter cable may be incorrectly attached to the same power distribution unit (pdu) stud as the battery cable, exposing the smaller battery cable to a higher current draw during cranking.
Consequence:
Exposure to high current draw may cause the battery cable to overheat, melt the wire insulation and increase the risk of a short circuit and a fire.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will relocate the starter cable to the chassis power stud. any damaged battery cables will be replaced. these repairs will be made free of charge. the recall began on march 10, 2016. owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242. blue bird's recall number for this campaign is r16yl-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:
16V100000 on 02/22/2016
Component:
Electrical system:wiring
Manufactured:
05/09/2007 - 03/04/2008
Affected:
733
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2008-2009 vision school buses manufactured from may 10, 2007, through march 5, 2008 and equipped with caterpillar c707 engines. in the affected buses, the positive starter cable may be incorrectly attached to the same power distribution unit (pdu) stud as the battery cable, exposing the smaller battery cable to a higher current draw during cranking.
Consequence:
Exposure to high current draw may cause the battery cable to overheat, melt the wire insulation and increase the risk of a short circuit and a fire.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will relocate the starter cable to the chassis power stud. any damaged battery cables will be replaced. these repairs will be made free of charge. the recall began on march 10, 2016. owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242. blue bird's recall number for this campaign is r16yl-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.

2008 BLUE BIRD VISION TSBs (26)

Bulletin:
S0801
Component:
117000 digital instrument panel
Summary:
Blue bird bus: electronic component programming. service stoneridge instrument panels and i/o controls multiplex boxes. *pe
Bulletin:
SB-S08
Component:
111100 electrical system:battery:cables
Summary:
Blue bird bus service campaign: see document search button for owner letter. the positive jumper cable is routed incorrectly. as a result, the engine may experience shutdown after initial start up. to correct this condition the jumper ca
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-06-KH
Component:
162310 structure:body:door:hinge and attachments
Summary:
Blue bird: see document search button for owner letter. on some buses, a guard was designed to prevent the snagging of bag straps and jacket pockets on air power entrance doors' emergency release lever. *pe
Bulletin:
SB-S-07-MH
Component:
061110 engine and engine cooling:engine:gasoline:belts and associated pulleys
Summary:
Blue bird: see document search button for owner letter. some model buses may have alternator drive belt that is too long and insufficient tension on fan pulley to prevent engine from overheating should be replaced. *pe
Bulletin:
SB-S-07-LT
Component:
117000 digital instrument panel
Summary:
Blue bird: see document search button for owner letter. on some model buses, an issue with the instrument panel, warning light, wait to start, fails to function properly and needs to be replaced. *pe
Bulletin:
SB-S-07-MC
Component:
017500 steering:linkages:tie rod assembly
Summary:
Blue bird: see document search button for owner letter. tie rods are interchangeable. must be inspected for correct part number and thread engagement in cross tube if replaced. *pe
Bulletin:
SB-S-07-MU
Component:
015300 steering:hydraulic power assist:power steering fluid
Summary:
Blue bird: see document search button for owner letter. on some model year buses, power steering reservoir cap would be leaking steering fluid. to correct condition, new cap was developed. *pe
Bulletin:
SB-S-07-LM
Component:
136000 visibility:windshield wiper/washer
Summary:
Blue bird: see document search button for owner letter. on model year buses, the bicycle crank arm, in wiper assembly, must be replaced due to design being out of specification. *pe
Bulletin:
SU-S-0705
Component:
017500 steering:linkages:tie rod assembly
Summary:
Blue bird: for some model year buses, front axles undergone several changes regarding tie rods not being interchangeable when replacement service is required. *pe
Bulletin:
SB-S-07-LS
Component:
113000 electrical system:starter assembly
Summary:
Blue bird: see document search button for owner letter. on some buses, starter cable is located on power junction block, causing slow starter cranking and misdiagnoses. starter cable should be located on ammeter junction block instead.
Bulletin:
SB-S-08-NP
Component:
061000 engine and engine cooling:engine
Summary:
Blue bird: see document search button for owner letter. some model year busses may have incorrectly routed grid heater power supply cable, that may need to be relocated to chassis power stud if on electronic power stud. *pe
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-08-MY
Component:
061000 engine and engine cooling:engine
Summary:
Blue bird: see document search button for owner letter. some model year vehicle experience shutting down after starting up due to positive jumper cable being incorrectly routed to electrical power stud instead of chassis power stud.
Bulletin:
SB-S-08-NR
Component:
062200 engine and engine cooling:cooling system:fan
Summary:
Blue bird: see document search button for owner letter. on certain model year buses, the fan blade was installed to the fan clutch with incorrect length bolts and/or spacers, which may separate from clutch and cause damage to blade.
Bulletin:
SB-S-09-PA
Component:
111100 electrical system:battery:cables
Summary:
Blue bird: see document search button for owner letter. on certain model year buses, the wrong disconnect stud(s) switch may be connected to battery disconnect jumper cable switch. *pe
Bulletin:
SB-S-09-PC
Component:
061000 engine and engine cooling:engine
Summary:
Blue bird bus: on certain model year buses, the oil cooler line insulation or oil cooler lines, may become damaged if it comes in contact with engine exhaust down pipe. *pe
Bulletin:
SB-S-10-RD
Component:
062000 engine and engine cooling:cooling system
Summary:
Blue bird bus: see document search button for owner letter. the engine coolant and/or transmission may become contaminated due to high pressure cycling of internal transmission oil cooler of radiator assembly becoming fatigue. *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-SR
Component:
220000 seats
Summary:
Blue bird bus: see document search button for owner letter. on certain model year buses, with track mounted modular seats, a decal may have been installed with incorrect track seating instructions. *pe
Bulletin:
SB-S-10-SN
Component:
114000 electrical system:wiring
Summary:
Blue bird bus: see document search button for owner letter. information regarding fuel lines and wiring harnesses be secured separately and not together above and over transmission and rear suspension. *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:
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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