ACX-2005 – Stall/Hesitation When Driving from Right Side – 2019 Autocar Xpeditor

August 21, 2020 NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V496000

Stall/Hesitation When Driving from Right Side

A stall or hesitation can cause the vehicle to drift backwards, increasing the risk of a crash, personal injury or property damage.

 

NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V496

Manufacturer Autocar, LLC

Components EQUIPMENT

Potential Number of Units Affected 78

 

Summary

Autocar, LLC is recalling certain 2019 Xpeditor vehicles up-fitted with an aftermarket power take off (PTO). These vehicles may stall or hesitate when operated from the right side stand up position with the PTO system engaged.

 

Remedy

Autocar will notify owners of the recall on October 19, 2020. Dealers will install a hill start aid system, free of charge. Autocar issued owners an interim notification on October 20, 2020. Owners may contact Autocar customer service at 1-888-218-3611 or 1-877-973-3488. Autocar’s number for this recall is ACX-2005.

 

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.

 

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IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL

This notice applies to your vehicle(s) with the VIN(s) indicated on the enclosed owner response cards.

 

AUTOCAR, LLC SAFETY RECALL ACX-2005

NHTSA RECALL NO. 20V496

October 2020

 

Dear Autocar Truck Owner:

 

This notice is being sent to you in accordance with the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act.

 

Autocar, LLC has determined that a defect which relates to motor vehicle safety exists in 78, 2019 model year Xpeditor chassis. These chassis were manufactured between August 20, 2018 and March 13, 2019 with non-sequential serial numbers in the range of 228812 through 230040. Our records indicate that your vehicle was manufactured within this time period and may contain the defect described herein.

 

MODELS AFFECTED:

Autocar Xpeditor MY 2019

 

COMPONENTS AFFECTED:

A potential stall/hesitation during launch when operated from the right-side stand-up position with the hydraulic system engaged.

 

SAFETY DEFECTS AND POTENTIAL RISKS:

When operated from the right-side stand-up position with the hydraulic system engaged, the vehicle could experience a stall/hesitation during launch. If this occurs while operating on an incline, the vehicle could move rearward, increasing the risk of a crash, personal injury or property damage.

 

REPAIR REQUIRED:

Autocar is actively developing options to resolve the concern, the subsequent repair has not been determined at this time.

 

 TIME REQUIRED FOR THE REPAIR:

The estimated labor time to repair your vehicle is 2 hours.

 

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO:

This is the first of two notices you will receive regarding this subject. This letter is to inform you of an upcoming recall to correct the issue noted above. The parts and processes required for the repair are being developed and we expect to have components available within the next 60 to 90 days. You may continue to operate your vehicle. The second notice will inform you when the final remedy is available. When you receive the second notice, please contact your local authorized Autocar service site or email  warranty@autocartruck.com. If you have questions or concerns regarding this notification, please contact Autocar technical support at 888-218-3611.

 

PRIOR REPAIRS:

If you have previously paid for repairs relating to this recall you may be entitled to recover the amount you paid for those repairs. Submit a copy of all documentation supporting your claim to Autocar at the address set forth below in the “Assistance” section.

 

NOTICE REGARDING LEASED VEHICLES:

If you are a Lessor (as defined below) of a vehicle that is affected by this notice, you are obligated under federal law to provide a copy of this Notice to the lessee of such vehicle  within 10 days of your receipt of this Notice. Further, you must maintain a record, which identifies the lessee(s) to whom you send a copy of this Notice, the date you send the Notice and the VIN of the vehicle that you have leased to the lessee(s).

 

For purposes of this Notice, the term “Lessor” means a person or entity that is the owner, as reflected on the vehicle’s title, of any five or more leased vehicles, as of the date of this Notice.

 

 OWNER RECALL RESPONSE CARD:

The enclosed Owner Recall Response Card identifies your vehicle.   Please complete this postage-paid card and return it to Autocar.  If you do not own, have sold or have traded the vehicle identified on the card, please indicate that on the postage-paid card and return it to Autocar.

 

ASSISTANCE:

If you need assistance with this recall, call our toll-free numbers below or write to Autocar at:

Autocar, LLC
Service & Warranty Departments
551 S. Washington St.
Hagerstown, Indiana 47346
888-218-3611 (Toll Free)
877-973-3486 (Toll Free)

You may also submit a complaint to:

Administrator
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE
Washington, DC 20590

 or call the toll-free Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 800-424-9153); or go to https://www.safercar.gov.

 

We regret any inconvenience this recall may cause, but we hope you recognize Autocar’s concern for your safety and satisfaction with your vehicle.

 

Sincerely,

 

AUTOCAR, LLC

 

ACF 00002 Rev. 000

 

551 South Washington Street, Hagerstown, IN  47346 Office: 765.489.5499 Fax: 765.489.5230

 

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SAFETY RECALL BULLETIN

NHTSA RECALL 20V496

AUTOCAR, LLC SAFETY RECALL ACX-2005

April 2021

 

ATTENTION:

Service Managers / Parts Managers.

 

SUBJECT:

Autocar, LLC has determined that a defect regarding a potential stall/hesitation may exist on certain Xpeditor® vehicles during launch, when operated from the right-side stand-up position with the hydraulic system engaged.

 

SAFETY RECALL INFORMATION:

This document provides work instructions to install a Hill Start Aid system.

 

VEHICLES AFFECTED:

There are 78, 2019 model year Xpeditor® chassis manufactured between August 20, 2018 and March 13, 2019 with non-sequential serial numbers in the range of 228812 through 230040.

To determine if a vehicle is affected by this Recall, log in to the Autocar Warranty Management

System at www.autocartruck.com. From the main menu, select “View Recalls/Service Programs” and look for the Autocar Recall number above. An excel file will be accessible with the VIN list of affected vehicles. Alternatively, to determine if a single vehicle is affected, select “VIN Profile” from the main menu in the Autocar Warranty Management System. In the “Chassis Number” field, enter the last 6 of the VIN. Once the VIN profile is displayed, scroll down to the “Recall/Service Program Information” section to determine if the Recall is open.

 

SERVICE RESPONSIBILITY:

Service sites must perform this Recall on affected vehicles at no charge to the owner regardless of vehicle mileage, age, or ownership. If a vehicle affected by this Recall is taken into or is currently in your vehicle inventory, or at your center for service, you must perform this Recall before the vehicle is sold or released to the owner.

 

REQUIRED PARTS:

(1) S7442003K002 Service kit

(1) 3083117 Bulkhead coupler
(1) 8096211 PRV
(1) A7441052-001 AT-3 solenoid
(1) 80” GZ170005-138 3/8 Green air line
(2) 10” GZ170005-338 3/8 Red air line
(3) GZ200041-064 3/8” X 1/4” 90 degree fitting
(1) GZ200041-062 3/8” X 1/8” 90 degree fitting
(1) GZ200042-064 3/8” X 1/4” 45 degree fitting
(1) GZ200095-066 Y union fitting
(1) S7440003-001 Bracket
(1) S7440004K001 Hardware kit

(14) 980464 Cable tie
(4) FE286225BW01 1/4” locknut
(2) FE286250BW01 1/2” locknut
(4) FE410125AW22 1/4” bolt
(2) FE410150AW14 1/2” bolt

(1) S7470002-002 Harness hill start aid (HSA)

Paste or liquid pipe thread sealant, obtained locally.

 

CLAIM CODING INFORMATION:

Repair Number (Op Code)	Time Allowance (SRT)	Description
59301-0-18	3.0 HR	Hill Start Aid

 

SAFETY NOTICES:

Allow the vehicle’s engine and cooling system to cool to ambient temperature before performing the repair procedure.  A hot engine or cooling assembly may cause burns or other personal injury.

Never rely on the hydraulic pressure to hold the cab in an open position.  Always use the safety pin in the cab tilt lock tube to prevent serious personal injury or death.

To prevent eye injury, always wear eye protection when performing vehicle maintenance, service, or inspection.

Before working on a vehicle, set the parking brake, place the transmission in neutral and block the wheels.  Failure to do so can result in unexpected vehicle movement and can cause serious personal injury or death.

 

Working on CNG/LNG Trucks

If you store or dispense Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) or Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), or if you work on CNG or LNG trucks, your location must be fully compliant with applicable codes, regulations and standards, including National Fire Protection Associate (NFPA) codes, Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) standards, American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Natural Gas Vehicle (NGV) standards, the United States Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) and your state and local fire and other applicable codes (including, for example, the California Code of Regulations and the Texas Administrative Code).

Contact your local fire department for guidance and additional compliance information.

Technicians working on Autocar trucks with CNG or LNG engines must be trained in the proper repair of CNG and LNG trucks and engines and the safe storage and dispensing of CNG and LNG.

 

Working on CNG Fuel Systems

CNG fuel systems include a high pressure (3600 psi) system for fuel storage and a low pressure system (125 psi) for consumption by the engine.  Understanding the characteristics of CNG and how the fuel system works will prevent injury and damage to persons and property.

Attempting to operate or maintain any CNG fuel system without proper training is dangerous.  Complete training and consult instructional bulletins from the CNG system suppliers, such as Agility Fuel Systems’ Field Service Bulletin, Safely Working on CNG Fuel Systems.

 

Welding and Hot Work Near CNG and LNG Trucks

Welding, grinding, and other “hot work” can be safely performed on or near a CNG or LNG vehicle, but certain precautions must be followed.  Understand and perform the necessary precautions provided by the CNG system suppliers, such as Agility Fuel Systems’ Field Service Bulletin, Welding and Hot Work Precautions Near CNG and LNG Vehicles.

 

CNG Cylinders

CNG fuel containers must meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 304 (Compressed Natural Gas Fuel Container Integrity) and/or ANSI/CSA NGV2 (Basic Requirements for Compressed Natural Gas Vehicle Fuel Containers).  Both standards specify a detailed visual examination every three years.

Truck owners are required to complete all necessary inspections, in accordance with the applicable standards and other resources, such as the Clean Vehicle Education Foundation and NGVAmerica’s Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Container Visual Inspection Advisory.

FMVSS 304 also requires that cylinders not be used after the end of life (EOL) date provided on the tank label.  The EOL date is also displayed in the engine compartment and at the fueling connection of each truck.  If there are any question as to proper decommissioning of a cylinder, contact the manufacturer, whose name and address is also required to be on the label.

 

CNG Fuel Container Pressure Relief Devices (PRDs)

PRDs must be properly maintained and positioned for safe operation of a CNG fuel system.  Missing vent caps can allow moisture into PRDs and vent lines, which can freeze and damage these safety components.  Debris which clogs the PRDs and/or vent lines can prevent proper function.

PRDs must be positioned to vent upward, not outward, from a vehicle.

Ensure that every truck owner completes periodic inspections of the PRDs and vent lines and systems, in accordance with guidance provided by the system component suppliers.

 

Alert First Responders to CNG and LNG

In the event of a fire or other emergency, alert first responders to the presence and location of CNG fuel systems, tanks, and dispensers.  Ensure that emergency personnel are aware of proper precautions, such as those provided in Agility’s First Responder Guide: CNG and LNG Vehicle Fuel Systems.

 

LOCKOUT/TAGOUT PROCEDURES:

Before entering the vehicle or vehicle body, read and follow OSHA regulations concerning entry and working in “CONFINED SPACE” OSHA 1910.146 and “LOCKOUT/TAGOUT” OSHA 1910.147. Follow OSHA regulations while performing any work on the vehicle. The vehicle must be disabled by the following steps before performing any work on the vehicle:

 

1. Place the transmission in NEUTRAL.

 

2. Set the parking brake.

 

3. Shut the engine OFF.

 

4. Lock cab doors and keep the key in your pocket. Block the wheels before entering the body or performing any work on the vehicle.

 

5. Turn the battery disconnect switch OFF, if equipped.

 

6. Completely drain the air from the primary/A system and secondary/B system by opening the drain valves on the air tanks themselves or by using the drain manifold if supplied. When draining the air tanks, do not look into the area where air is draining. Dirt or sludge particles may be expelled in the air stream and can cause eye injury.

 

7. Place magnetic “DANGER” signs on both cab doors before entering the body or performing any work on the vehicle.

 

8. Take proper precautions before working under the vehicle. Use ramps approved for the weight of your vehicle, or use floor jacks and stands. Never work under a vehicle supported by jacks alone. Always use jack stands to support the vehicle.

 

Hill Start Aid (HSA) Installation Instructions.

1. Follow all lockout/tagout procedures and verify the battery disconnect switch is in the “OFF” position. If the unit is not equipped with a battery disconnect switch, disconnect the battery cables beginning with the negative cables, followed by the positive cables.

 

2. Locate the first cross member forward of the drive axle (see Figure 1 Detail “B”).

 

Detail “A” ABS Module

 

Detail “B” HSA Bracket

 

Detail “C” SBR

 

3. Install the S7440003-001 bracket to the right side of the cross member using (2) FE286250BW01 1/2” locknut’s and (2) FE410150AW14 1/2” bolts and tighten to 90 lbs. ft. of torque (see Figures 2, 3 and 4).

4. Install (3) GZ200041-064 3/8” X 1/4” 90 degree fittings, (1) GZ200041-062 3/8” X 1/8” 90 degree fitting and (1) GZ200042-064 3/8” X 1/4” 45 degree fitting. Apply paste or liquid pipe thread sealant to the exposed threads (obtained locally). Locate the 3083117 Bulkhead fitting, remove and discard the nut and lock washer. Apply paste or liquid pipe thread sealant to the exposed threads (obtained locally), install the 3083117 Bulkhead fitting and tighten to 15 lbs. ft. of torque (see Figure 5).

 

5. Using (4) FE286225BW01 1/4” locknut’s and (4) FE410125AW22 1/4” bolts, install the valve assembly to the S7440003-001 bracket (see Figure 5).

 

Note: Verify orientation as indicated in Figure 5.

6. Locate the Double Check Valve (DCV) behind the Service Brake Relay (SBR) on the right rearward side of the suspension cross member. Disconnect the service brake signal 3/8” green air line, at the Double Check Valve (DCV).

 

Note: Verify the service brake signal line originates at the chassis manifold, port 1. The optional LWB signal line passes directly through the cab, bypassing the chassis manifold (see Figures 6, 7 and Detail “C”).

 

Note: The Lever Work Brake (LWB) is optional. If the unit is not equipped with LWB, the DCV will not be present.  For units without this option, use the line plumbed into the control port of SBR for step 6.

 

Note: To verify the correct air line is selected at the DCV, disconnect the SBR signal from port 1 of the cab manifold and apply shop air.

 

7. Connect the service brake signal 3/8” green air line to the control port of the Hill Start Aid (HSA) solenoid (see Figure 8).

 

8. Install the GZ170005-138 3/8” green air line, connect the delivery port of the HSA solenoid to the DCV (disconnected in Step 6) (see Figure 8).

 

9. Locate the 3/8” red park brake signal line at the Park Brake Relay (PBR). Cut the 3/8” red park brake signal line near the PBR and install the GZ200095-066 Y Union. Install the GZ170005-338 3/8” red air line into the open port of the Y union and connect to the supply port of the Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) (see Figure 8).

 

10. Install the GZ170005-338 3/8” red air line into the delivery port of the PRV. Install the GZ170005-338 3/8” red air line into to the supply port of the HSA solenoid (see Figure 8).

 

1. Primary (A Tank)

2. Secondary (B Tank)

3. Foot Valve

4. Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV)

5. Hill Start Aid Solenoid (HSA)

6. Service Brake Relay (SBR)

7. Park Brake Relay (PBR)

8. Rear Brake Chambers

 

 

11. Locate the ABS module and disconnect the X3 connector (see Figure 9).

 

12. Remove and discard two plugs from the X3 connector, cavity 8 and 14. Install the S7470002-002 Harness HSA, wire number 783 into cavity 8 and wire number 784 into cavity 14 of the X3 connector and reinstall the X3 connector into the ABS module (see Figure 10).

 

13. Install the S7470002-002 Harness HSA into the right frame rail following proper routing and clipping techniques and connect to the HSA Solenoid (see Figure 3)

 

14. Secure any harnesses that were displaced during the repair process and confirm that no chafing or rubbing can occur. Re-connect any air lines, other plumbing or electrical items that were disconnected.  Turn on the battery disconnect switch or re-connect all battery terminals beginning with the positive connections, followed by the negative connections.

 

15. Start the truck and fully charge the air system. Shut off the engine and using soapy water, check for any air leaks at new plumbing connections.

 

 

This Section Contains Instructions for Testing the Parking Brake System.

 

Note: Steps 16 through 20 are verifying the “A” system and Steps 24 through 27 are verifying the “B” system.

 

16. Start the engine to charge the air system fully to governor cut-out and shut the engine off.

 

17. Push the yellow Parking Brake button to confirm that it will not remain depressed or release the parking brake (see Figure 11).

 

Note: The yellow Parking Brake button should return to the out or parking brake applied position.

 

18. While firmly pressing the service brake pedal, push the yellow Parking Brake button.

 

Note:  The yellow Parking Brake button should remain depressed or in the parking brake released position.

 

19. Drain the “A” (primary) system.

 

Note: The yellow Parking Brake button should remain depressed or in the parking brake released position.

 

20. Drain the “B” (secondary) system.

 

Note: The yellow Parking Brake button should pop out, applying the parking brake automatically at 40psi +/- 3psi.

 

21. Start the engine to charge the air system fully to governor cut-out and shut the engine off.

 

22. While firmly pressing the service brake pedal, push the yellow Parking Brake button.

 

Note: The yellow Parking Brake button should remain depressed or in the parking brake released position.

 

23. Drain the “B” (secondary) system.

 

Note: The yellow Parking Brake button should remain depressed or in the parking brake released position.

 

24. Drain the “A” (primary) system.

 

Note: The yellow Parking Brake button should pop out, applying the parking brake automatically at 40psi +/-3psi.

 

Note: If any portion of the functional test fails, please contact Autocar technical support at 888-218-3611.

 

25. The parking brake test is complete.

 

 

This Section Contains Instructions for Testing the Lever Work Brake System.

 

26. Start the engine to charge the air system fully to governor cut-out.

 

27. With the brake pedal applied, put the transmission in gear. With the brake pedal still applied, engage the Lever Work Brake (LWB).  Once engaged the transmission will go into neutral.

 

28. Step on the brake pedal and release the LWB. The transmission will go back into gear automatically.  If you fail to step on the brake pedal first, the transmission will remain in neutral.

 

29. The Lever Work Brake test is complete.

 

Note: If any portion of the Lever Work Brake test fails, please contact Autocar technical  support at 888-218-3611.

 

30. Log in to the Autocar Warranty Management System at www.autocartruck.com. From the main menu, select “View Recalls/Service Programs” and look for the Autocar Recall number above. A PAR file will be accessible. Alternatively, to determine if a single vehicle is affected, select “VIN Profile” from the main menu in the Autocar Warranty Management System. In the “Chassis Number” field, enter the last 6 of the VIN. Once the VIN profile is displayed, scroll down to the “Recall/Service Program Information” section and a PAR file will be accessible, download the PAR file to your computer.

 

31. Connect your computer to the diagnostic port located under the dash and using Bendix® VEPS software, upload the PAR file to the vehicle. Using Bendix® ACom® diagnostics, verify the functionality of the HSA solenoid by performing the component test.

 

32. Contact your local Allison Service Center, provide the Vehicle Identification Number and and request to have the hill hold interface enabled.

 

33. Road test the vehicle and verify function of the Hill Start Aid system.

 

Notes: During the road test, it may take up to 1 hour for the Hill Start Aid system to calibrate.

 

If any portion of the functional tests fail or if you have questions regarding this Recall, please contact Autocar Technical Support at 888-218-3611.

 

33. Once all functional tests have passed, the Hill Start Aid installation is complete.

 

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IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL

This notice applies to your vehicle(s) with the VIN(s) indicated on the enclosed owner response cards.

 

AUTOCAR, LLC SAFETY RECALL ACX-2005

NHTSA RECALL NO. 20V496

April 2021

 

Dear Autocar Truck Owner:

 

This notice is being sent to you in accordance with the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act.

 

Autocar, LLC has determined that a defect which relates to motor vehicle safety exists in 78, 2019 model year Xpeditor chassis. These chassis were manufactured between August 20, 2018 and March 13, 2019 with non-sequential serial numbers in the range of 228812 through 230040. Our records indicate that your vehicle was manufactured within this time period and may contain the defect described herein.

 

MODELS AFFECTED:

Autocar Xpeditor MY 2019

 

COMPONENTS AFFECTED:

A potential stall/hesitation during launch when operated from the right-side stand-up position with the hydraulic system engaged.

 

 SAFETY DEFECTS AND POTENTIAL RISKS:

When operated from the right-side stand-up position with the hydraulic system engaged, the vehicle could experience a stall/hesitation during launch. If this occurs while operating on an incline, the vehicle could move rearward, increasing the risk of a crash, personal injury or property damage.

REPAIR REQUIRED:

A hill start aid system will be installed at no charge.

 

TIME REQUIRED FOR THE REPAIR:

The estimated labor time to repair your vehicle is 3 hours.

 

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO:

To have your vehicle repaired, contact your local authorized Autocar service site or email warranty@autocartruck.com.

 

PRIOR REPAIRS:

If you have previously paid for repairs relating to this recall you may be entitled to recover the amount you paid for those repairs. Submit a copy of all documentation supporting your claim to Autocar at the address set forth below in the “Assistance” section.

 

NOTICE REGARDING LEASED VEHICLES:

If you are a Lessor (as defined below) of a vehicle that is affected by this notice, you are obligated under federal law to provide a copy of this Notice to the lessee of such vehicle within 10 days of your receipt of this Notice. Further, you must maintain a record, which identifies the lessee(s) to whom you send a copy of this Notice, the date you send the Notice and the VIN of the vehicle that you have leased to the lessee(s).

For purposes of this Notice, the term “Lessor” means a person or entity that is the owner, as reflected on the vehicle’s title, of any five or more leased vehicles, as of the date of this Notice.

 

OWNER RECALL RESPONSE CARD:

The enclosed Owner Recall Response Card identifies your vehicle.   Please complete this postage-paid card and return it to Autocar.  If you do not own, have sold or have traded the vehicle identified on the card, please indicate that on the postage-paid card and return it to Autocar.

 

ASSISTANCE:

If you need assistance with this recall, call our toll-free numbers below or write to Autocar at:

Autocar, LLC
Service & Warranty Departments
551 S. Washington St.
Hagerstown, Indiana 47346
888-218-3611 (Toll Free)
877-973-3486 (Toll Free)

You may also submit a complaint to:

Administrator
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE
Washington, DC 20590

or call the toll-free Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 800-424-9153); or go to https://www.safercar.gov.

 

We regret any inconvenience this recall may cause, but we hope you recognize Autocar’s concern for your safety and satisfaction with your vehicle.

 

Sincerely,

 

AUTOCAR, LLC

 

ACF 00002 Rev. 000

 

551 South Washington Street, Hagerstown, IN  47346 Office: 765.489.5499 Fax: 765.489.5230

 

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August 20, 2020

 

Complete Chronology

ACX-2005

 

On or about February 5, 2020, Autocar received information regarding two CNG units and one diesel unit for certain vehicles that were custom built for one customer.  The information provided indicated potential concerns in connection with a lack of acceleration. An internal corrective action was initiated to analyze the alleged condition.

 

On or about February 6, 2020, additional information was added to the corrective action to additionally evaluate the sales order group of 48 units to the one customer, and Autocar’s field service team proceeded with its investigation.

On or about February 12, 2020, the Autocar field service team preliminarily identified that the “Vehicle Accelerator Management” parameter was unexpectedly enabled on the diesel unit, and Autocar tentatively identified that the parameter had not been enabled by Autocar prior to first sale to the customer.  When this feature was disabled, the reported concern was eliminated, and the customer returned the vehicle to service.  Further analysis in or about mid-March 2020 confirmed Autocar’s February 2020 preliminary view that the accelerator management parameter was not enabled by Autocar.  As a result, Autocar reasonably determined that this was an isolated incident.  Autocar subsequently moved the diesel unit matter to a separate corrective action, and closed it as resolved.

 

Between late March 2020 and June 2020, the COVID-19 global pandemic restricted Autocar’s reasonable ability to conduct its normal investigative process, including travel restrictions, mandatory shelter in place orders, and related government ordered restrictions. Despite these government ordered restrictions, Autocar was in full communication with the customer, and in good faith, Autocar did not reasonably assess the reported condition as an unreasonable risk to safety.

 

On or about June 25, 2020, Autocar was contacted by NHTSA requesting a discussion regarding certain customer complaints reported to the agency.  On July 1, 2020, Autocar held a telephone discussion with NHTSA regarding customer complaints and Autocar’s analysis of the matter to date.  Following a good faith discussion with the agency, and upon further analysis, Autocar increased the total suspect population to 78.  Autocar actively communicated and cooperated with NHTSA in July and August 2020, during which time Autocar continued to reasonably assess the reported condition for its potential safety risk.  With COVID-19 government ordered restrictions somewhat relaxed, in July 2020, Autocar field service team participated in ride along monitoring with the customer, and  obtained data from the engine ECM while the reported concern was active.  In late July and early August 2020, Autocar analyzed the collected customer data whilst NHTSA and Autocar continued to have cooperation and communication about the subject issues. On August 17, 2020, Autocar decided to perform a voluntary safety recall.

 

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General Recall Reimbursement Plan

 

I. Introduction

Pursuant to 49 U.S.C. 30120(d), 49 C.F.R. Parts 573 and 577, and other applicable requirements, Autocar, LLC and Autocar Industries, LLC (collectively “Autocar”) hereby provides the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (“NHTSA”) its general reimbursement plan for the cost of remedies paid for by vehicle owners before they are notified of a related safety recall.

As set forth at 49 C.F.R. 573.6(c)(8)(i) and 49 C.F.R 573.13, the following information sets forth Autocar’s general plan to reimburse owners and purchasers for costs incurred for remedies in advance of notification of potential safety-related defects or noncompliance.

 

II. Reimbursement Notification

 Autocar’s notice to a vehicle owner in accordance with 49 C.F.R. Part 577 will indicate whether Autocar is offering a refund. A vehicle owner will be eligible for reimbursement if the owner paid to have service to remedy the defect or noncompliance prior to a specified ending date.

As set forth at 49 C.F.R 573.13(c)(2), the ending date shall be 10 calendar days after the date on which Autocar mailed the last of its Part 577 notifications to owners in the United States, unless a specific reimbursement plan is made available for a particular recall.

Autocar’s notice will instruct owners to seek eligible reimbursement through Autocar’s Service & Warranties Department, at the following address or otherwise applicable business address:

Autocar LLC
Service & Warranties Department
551 S. Washington Street
Hagerstown, Indiana 47346

 

Owners will also be instructed that they may contact Autocar by telephone (toll free) at 888-218-3611 or 877-973-3486

NHTSA’s regulations (see 49 C.F.R. 573.13(c)) permit Autocar to identify a beginning date for reimbursement eligibility. Accordingly, an owner who paid to remedy the defect or noncompliance prior to the identified beginning date would not be eligible for reimbursement. Autocar puts its owners and customers first, and therefore, the company has generally has not firmly established such a beginning date for reimbursement eligibility, and as of the date of this policy, does not presently anticipate changing this general policy.

Should Autocar determine (as NHTSA permits) that a beginning date is appropriate, Autocar will indicate that date in the specific reimbursement plan for that particular recall. As permitted by 49 C.F.R. 577.11(e), Autocar may not include a reimbursement notification when all vehicles are well within the warranty period, subject to approval by NHTSA.

 

III. Costs to be Reimbursed

 For vehicles, reimbursement will not be less than the lesser of:

• The amount paid by the owner for the remedy that specifically addressed and was reasonably necessary to correct the defect or noncompliance that is the subject of the recall; or,

• The costs of the part(s) for the remedy (to be no more than the manufacturer’s list retail price for authorized part(s)), plus associated labor at local labor rates, miscellaneous fees (such as disposal of waste), and taxes.

For replacement equipment, reimbursement will be the amount paid by the owner for each replacement item (limited to the amount of the retail list price of each defective or noncompliant item that was replaced, plus taxes, where the brand or model purchased by the owner was different than the brand or model that was subject to the recall). If the item of motor vehicle equipment was repaired, the reimbursement provisions identified above for vehicles will apply.

As set forth at 49 C.F.R. 573.13(d)(1), costs incurred by the owner within the period during which Autocar’s original or extended warranty would have provided for a free repair of the defect or noncompliance will not be eligible for reimbursement.

 

IV. Entity Authorized to Provide Reimbursement

 

Autocar will directly reimburse owners, unless a specific reimbursement plan is made available for a particular recall, and will encourage owners to pursue requests for reimbursement directly through its Service & Warranties Department to expedite reimbursement, as set forth above in Section II. In whatever manner the request for reimbursement is made, under this Plan or a specific reimbursement plan, the owner will be directed to submit the required documentation, upon which reimbursement eligibility will be determined.

 

V. Required Documentation

The reimbursement determination will depend upon the information provided by the owner.

As set forth at 49 C.F.R. Part 573.13(d)(4), the owner must submit all of the following information:

• Claimant’s name and mailing address;

• For motor vehicles, the vehicle identification number (or “VIN”), vehicle make, model, and model year;

• For replacement equipment, a description of such equipment or, for tires, the model and size;

• Identification of the applicable recall (either Autocar’s recall number, or NHTSA’s applicable recall campaign number);

• Identification of the owner of the recalled vehicle at the time that the pre-notification remedy was obtained;

• An original receipt for the pre-notification remedy that includes a breakdown of the amount for parts, labor, other costs and taxes, including costs for the replacement item. Where the receipt covers work other than to address the recall or noncompliance, Autocar may require the claimant to separately identify costs that are eligible for reimbursement.

• If the remedy was obtained during the warranty period, documentation indicating that the warranty was not honored or that the warranty repair did not correct the problem related to the recall.

Failure to submit all of the above information may result in denial of the reimbursement request.

 

VI. Additional Information

The Part 577 required owner notice will provide a toll-free telephone number through which specific information about the reimbursement plan can be requested from Autocar.

As set forth at 49 C.F.R. 573.6, this general reimbursement plan will be incorporated into notifications by reference. Information specific to a particular recall also may be incorporated into the Part 573.6 notification.

 

VII. Response to Requests for Reimbursement

Autocar will act upon requests for reimbursement as follows:

• Autocar will act upon a claim for reimbursement within 60 days of its receipt. If Autocar denies the claim, Autocar will send a notice to the claimant within 60 days of receipt of the claim that includes a clear, concise statement of the reasons for the denial.

• If a claim for reimbursement is incomplete when originally submitted, Autocar will advise the claimant within 60 days of receipt of the claim of the documentation that is needed and offer an opportunity to resubmit the claim with complete documentation.

Reimbursement shall be in the form of a check from Autocar.

 

VIII. Miscellaneous

Autocar will make a copy of this plan available to the public, upon request.

As permitted by 49 C.F.R. 573.13(m), Autocar will not reimburse owners for recalls based solely on noncompliant or defective labels.

As set forth at 49 C.F.R. 573.13(n), reimbursement for a pre-notification remedy will not be provided to an owner if, in the case of a motor vehicle or replacement equipment other than a tire, it was bought by the first purchaser more than 15 calendar years before notice is given under 49 U.S.C. 30118(c) or an order is issued under section 49 U.S.C. 30118(b). In the case of a tire, this period shall be 5 calendar years.

 

Dated: June 1, 2020

 

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1 Affected Product

Vehicle

MAKE	MODEL	YEAR
AUTOCAR	XPEDITOR	2019

 

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12 Associated Documents

Recall Quarterly Report #1, 2021-2

RCLQRT-20V496-0801.PDF 211.132KB

 

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Recall 573 Report- Amendment 1

RCLRPT-20V496-4440.PDF 215.92KB

 

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Defect Notice 573 Report

RCLRPT-20V496-4936.PDF 215.96KB

 

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Miscellaneous Document- Chronology

RMISC-20V496-0074.pdf 196.879KB

 

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Recall Acknowledgement

RCAK-20V496-5954.pdf 244.517KB

 

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ISSUED Owner Notification Letter(Part 577)

RCONL-20V496-2147.pdf 159.79KB

 

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ISSUED Interim Owner Notification Letter(Part 577)

RIONL-20V496-6012.pdf 163.512KB

 

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Manufacturer Notices(to Dealers,etc)

RCMN-20V496-1551.pdf 106.877KB

 

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Manufacturer Reimbursement Plan

RMRP-20V496-0159.pdf 613.304KB

 

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Remedy Instructions and TSB

RCRIT-20V496-3424.pdf 8033.044KB

 

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Safety Bulletin

RCSB-20V496-4828.pdf 8033.044KB

 

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Recall Quarterly Report #2, 2021-3

RCLQRT-20V496-5332.PDF 211.233KB

 

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Latest Recalls Documents

For the Latest and Most Recent Recalls Information Visit the link below…

https://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/acms/cs/documentList.xhtml?docId=20V496&docType=RCL

 

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Last update on 2024-04-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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