Nova Bus Recalls Buses Due to Brake Chamber Defect

Nova Bus (US) Inc. is recalling specific 2016-2019 LFS and LFS Artic buses due to an air leak in the brake chamber on the rear axle, which could cause the brakes to engage unexpectedly. This issue poses a risk of overheating, fire, and potential crashes.

Key Highlights:

NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V558000
Affected Units: 534 buses
Issue: Air leak in the rear axle brake chamber
Models: 2016-2019 LFS and LFS Artic
Remedy: Inspection and replacement of brake chambers at no cost
Notification Date: Owner notification letters expected by September 22, 2024

Description of Defect:

The defective brake chamber seal can cause an air leak, leading to unwanted brake engagement. This can result in brake component overheating, smoke, and potentially a wheel-end fire. Additionally, unexpected braking increases the risk of a crash.

No Warning Signs:

There are no warning signs before the occurrence of the defect.

Remedy Program:

Nova Bus will inspect and replace the brake chambers free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on September 22, 2024. For more information, owners can contact Nova Bus customer service at 1-800-350-6682. The Nova Bus recall number for this issue is CR5619.

Owners can also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or visit www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer Information:

Name: Nova Bus (US) Inc.
Address: 260 Banker Road, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Phone: 450-472-6410

Chronology of Events:

October 31, 2019: Customers reported potential dragging brakes.
November 4, 2019: Nova Bus initiated an internal investigation.
September 25, 2020: The Product Safety Evaluation Committee closed the issue due to low severity consequences.
February 19, 2021: Supplier provided the root cause determination.
November 18, 2021: Nova Bus released a Technical Service Bulletin.
March 20, 2024: Nova Bus conducted additional testing based on new information and NHTSA discussions.
June 14, 2024: Nova Bus reopened the investigation.
July 11, 2024: The Product Safety Committee evaluated the defect.
July 25, 2024: Nova Bus filed a report with NHTSA, announcing a voluntary recall.

Remedy Details:

Remedy Components: Brake chambers K038830N00 will be replaced by K234368N00.
Production Correction: Vehicles manufactured after February 6, 2019, are free of the defect.

Recall Schedule: