Recall 14V455000: 2013–2014 KME Panther, 2013–2014 KME Predator

Updated from NHTSA data · How we count

Report date
Jul 25, 2014
Vehicles affected
10
Models
2
Initiated by
ODI

The problem

Kovatch Mobile Equipment Corp. (Kovatch) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Predator and 2014 Panther fire fighting vehicles manufactured October 2013 to March 2014, and equipped with IMMI-brand L9 seat belt buckles. When the button is pressed to release the seat belt, the latch plate can become partially engaged with the buckle, making the seat belt difficult to unlatch. Thus, these vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 209, "Seat Belt Assemblies."

The risk

If the latch plate remains partially engaged after the button is pressed, egress from the vehicle could be hindered which would increase the risk of injury in the event of an emergency.

The fix

Kovatch will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the seat belt buckle, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on August 24, 2015. Owners may contact Kovatch at 1-800-235-3926. Kovatch's number for this campaign is 2014-SR01.

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.

Affected vehicles

Details

NHTSA campaign
14V455000
Manufacturer campaign
2014-SR01
Manufacturer
Kovatch Mobile Equipment Corp.
Owner letters
Aug 24, 2015
Components
Seat belts (Seats & Seat Belts)

Recall repairs are free at authorized dealers. To see if your vehicle is included, enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov or call the manufacturer.

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation public data. Complaints are submitted by owners and are not verified by NHTSA or by us; a complaint does not prove a defect exists. Methodology