International Motors has issued a safety recall affecting 4,393 IC Bus CESB school buses from model years 2023 through 2027. NHTSA Campaign Number 26V111 addresses a hydraulic brake line mounting defect that could lead to fluid leaks and longer stopping distances.
Highlights
- 4,393 IC Bus CESB school buses from model years 2023–2027 are affected by incorrect brake line mounting hardware
- Brake line contact with the steering shaft may cause hydraulic fluid leaks and increased stopping distances
- Five warranty claims have already reported brake line contact with the steering shaft
- Dealer notifications begin April 20, 2026, with owner letters expected by April 27, 2026
Defect Details
The recall targets IC Bus CESB school buses built between December 15, 2022, and February 2, 2026, at the Tulsa Bus Assembly Plant. These vehicles were equipped with hydraulic brakes (feature code 0004100). According to NHTSA, incorrect mounting hardware was used to secure the brake line assembly retainer.
As a result, the retainer can lose tension and deform over time. This allows the brake line to disengage and contact the steering shaft. That contact may cause a leak in the hydraulic brake system. A fluid leak can produce a soft brake pedal and increase stopping distance, especially during emergency braking.
Affected Vehicles by Model Year
- 2023 IC Bus CESB: 2 units (produced Dec 15–20, 2022)
- 2024 IC Bus CESB: 6 units (produced Sep 21–Oct 25, 2023)
- 2025 IC Bus CESB: 1,395 units (produced Feb 5–Oct 2, 2024)
- 2026 IC Bus CESB: 2,134 units (produced Oct 2, 2024–Oct 7, 2025)
- 2027 IC Bus CESB: 856 units (produced Oct 9, 2025–Feb 2, 2026)
International estimates 100% of the suspect population contains the defect. The involved components include the brake retainer clip (part number 3523101C2) and the hydraulic brake line hose (part number 4232215C1).
Timeline of Discovery
The issue first surfaced on December 2, 2025, during a vehicle inspection at the Tulsa plant. Inspectors found a brake line retainer that did not properly hold the line in place. However, no contact with other components was observed at that time.
By December 12, International identified the root cause as improper mounting hardware. The plant switched to different hardware, though no brake line contact risk had yet been confirmed.
On January 26, 2026, a dealer reported that a brake line had disengaged from its retainer and was rubbing against the steering shaft. International reviewed photographic evidence four days later. The company then implemented a delivery stop at the Tulsa plant on February 1 and repaired all affected vehicles on-site.
A warranty analysis completed on February 11 revealed five claims citing brake line contact with the steering shaft. International finalized the suspect population on February 18 and declared a safety recall the following day.
Remedy and Owner Notification
Dealers will inspect brake lines for damage, replace damaged lines, and install new brake line retainers at no cost to owners. NHTSA has issued “Do Not Drive” and “Park Outside” consumer advisories for affected vehicles.
Dealer notifications are scheduled for April 20, 2026. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed by April 27, 2026, as part of a phased recall. Vehicle identification numbers will be searchable on NHTSA.gov starting April 20, 2026. Owners may contact International’s customer service at 1-800-448-7825 and reference recall number 26502.
Subscribe Today!
Sign up for our weekly eNewsletter and get a free copy of our quarterly digital magazine.
