ARBOC Specialty Vehicles is recalling 871 Spirit of Freedom and Spirit of Mobility transit buses over incorrectly installed rear brake lines. The defect affects 2018–2026 model year buses built on Chevrolet chassis and renders the rear ABS system non-compliant with federal safety standards.
Highlights
- ARBOC is recalling 871 transit buses for rear brake lines connected incorrectly during manufacturing
- The defect disables rear ABS modulator valve function, violating FMVSS 105
- Affected models include the 2018–2026 Spirit of Freedom (480 units) and Spirit of Mobility (391 units)
- NHTSA has issued a “Do Not Drive” consumer advisory for affected vehicles
Defect Details
The recall traces to ARBOC’s chassis modification process. When Chevrolet transitioned to a four-channel hydraulic brake system, ARBOC reconnected the rear brake lines incorrectly after modifications. As a result, the rear ABS modulator valve cannot properly control the rear brakes.
Only buses built on Chevrolet chassis are affected. Other chassis manufacturers use brake modulators that cannot be misconnected. NHTSA estimates 100% of the 871 potentially involved units carry the defect.
Safety Risk
An improperly functioning rear ABS system increases crash risk during conditions where ABS activation is needed. The ABS warning lamp will illuminate as intended when the system engages. However, the rear brakes will not respond correctly to ABS input.
NHTSA has classified the recall under FMVSS 105, which governs hydraulic and electric brake systems. The agency assigned campaign number 26V137000.
Discovery Timeline
A non-U.S. dealer first reported a rear brake issue on March 2, 2026. The dealer had traced the problem to incorrectly connected brake lines at the rear ABS modulator valve.
ARBOC then inspected all buses at its Middlebury, Indiana production plant. The company found similar conditions across its inventory. It corrected the production process that same day and placed a stop-ship order on any uncorrected buses.
By March 4, ARBOC’s Safety Committee convened and determined a recall was warranted. The company began contacting dealers preemptively on March 6.
Remedy and Owner Notification
ARBOC will provide instructions for owners and dealers to reroute and reconnect the rear brake lines at no charge. The repair is estimated to take approximately one hour per bus.
Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed between April 24 and May 1, 2026. Owners may contact ARBOC customer service at 1-866-953-5555. Reimbursement for repairs already completed will be available from May 8, 2026 through May 8, 2027.
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