2007 BLUE BIRD VISION

21 recalls, 3 complaints - 29 TSBs

PARKING BRAKE

Defect Description

Blue Bird Body Company (Blue Bird) is recalling certain 2006-2021 Vision and 2007-2013 All American school buses. The floor-mounted parking brake may fail to hold the vehicle stationary on an incline when the vehicle is loaded to its maximum weight, due to an insufficient application force. As suc... Read more

Consequence

A parking brake system that is set to an insufficient application force may result in an increased possibility of unintended vehicle movement, which increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Blue Bird will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the floor mounted park brake application force hand lever assembly and correct the application force, as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin June 24, 2020. Owners may contact Blue Bird customer service at 478-822-2242. ... Read more

2,264 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Blue Bird Body Company

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Defect Description

Blue Bird Body Company (Blue Bird) is recalling certain model year 2007-2015 All American and Vision and 2007-2011 Micro Bird transit buses equipped with certain model S2005, S2010, S5005, S5010, S5505, and S5510 wheelchair lifts manufactured January 1, 2006, to August 25, 2014 by the Ricon Corporat... Read more

Consequence

If the bearings move out of position, the stowed platform may have excessive movement resulting in failure of the platform mounting. This failure could cause the wheel chair lift platform to fall out of the vehicle when the doors are opened, increasing the risk of injury for the lift operator.

Remedy

Blue Bird will notify owners, and Ricon dealers will inspect the link arms for damage or for displaced bearings. The platform will be inspected for cracks. Any damaged parts will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began on December 1, 2015. Owners may contact Blue Bird customer service at 1-47... Read more

90 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Blue Bird Body Company

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Defect Description

Blue Bird Body Company (Blue Bird) is recalling certain model year 2007-2015 All American, Vision, 2007-2011 Micro Bird, and 2007-2008 Conventional school buses, equipped with certain model S2005, S2010, S5005, S5010, S5505, and S5510 wheelchair lifts manufactured January 1, 2006, to August 25, 2014... Read more

Consequence

Remedy

5,114 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Blue Bird Body Company

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Defect Description

Blue Bird Body Company (Blue Bird) is recalling certain model year 2007-2015 All American, 2007-2010 Micro Bird, and 2007-2014 Vision non-school buses equipped with certain model S2005, S2010, S5005, S5010, S5505, and S5510 wheelchair lifts manufactured by Ricon Corporation. The platform side plate... Read more

Consequence

If the platform side plates crack, the lift platform can separate from the lift and come to rest against the vehicle's lift door. When the doors are opened, the platform may fall out, increasing the risk of injury to the lift operator.

Remedy

Blue Bird will notify owners to take buses to a Ricon dealer or service center who will install supplemental platform support bumpers. Any platform that has already started cracking will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began on October 1, 2014. Owners may contact Blue Bird customer servic... Read more

90 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Blue Bird Body Company

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Defect Description

Blue Bird Body Company (Blue Bird) is recalling certain model year 2007-2015 All American and Vision, 2007-2011 Micro Bird, and 2007-2008 Conventional school buses equipped with certain model S2005, S2010, S5005, S5010, S5505, and S5510 wheelchair lifts manufactured by Ricon Corporation. The platfo... Read more

Consequence

Remedy

5,114 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Blue Bird Body Company

STRUCTURE

Defect Description

Blue Bird Body Company is recalling certain model year 2007-2014 All American and Vision school buses manufactured March 10, 2006, through June 18, 2013; and equipped with optional transit sliding windows. Joint adhesive may not have been applied at the interior and exterior body window panel joint... Read more

Consequence

In the event of a vehicle crash, there is an increased risk that the window panels may separate and fall onto occupants causing injury.

Remedy

Blue Bird will notify owners, and dealers will install additional rivets at the window panel joints, free of charge. The recall began on August 28, 2013. Owners may contact Blue Bird at 1-478-825-2021. Blue Bird's recall number is R13WM.

172 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Blue Bird Body Company

SEATS:BARRIERS

Defect Description

BLUE BIRD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006 THROUGH 2012 ALL AMERICAN, 2006 THROUGH 2011 VISION, AND 2006 CONVENTIONAL SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN SEPTEMBER 19, 2005, AND MAY 3, 2011, EQUIPPED WITH 2-PASSENGER SEATS INSTALLED FORWARD OF THE 39" BARRIER. IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE BARRIER... Read more

Consequence

THE SEAT OCCUPANTS MAY BE SERIOUSLY INJURED IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.

Remedy

BLUE BIRD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE BUSES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 18, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BLUE BIRD AT 1-478-822-2242.

54 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL

Defect Description

BLUE BIRD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2007 THROUGH 2011 VISION SCHOOL BUSES. THE DASH INSTRUMENT PANEL ABS INDICATOR LIGHT DOES NOT ILLUMINATE WHEN THE ABS CIRCUIT IS DISCONNECTED AT THE MAIN ABS MODULE. ACCORDINGLY, THESE BUSES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFE... Read more

Consequence

IN THE EVENT THE ABS CIRCUIT DISCONNECTS FROM THE MAIN ABS MODULE, THE BUS OPERATOR WOULD BE UNAWARE OF THE FAILURE OF THE ABS SYSTEM AND THE ASSOCIATED REDUCED BRAKING FUNCTION, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy

BLUE BIRD IS CURRENTLY WORKING WITH STONERIDGE TO PRODUCE SOFTWARE THAT DEALERS CAN USE TO REPROGRAM THE DASH INSTRUMENT PANEL. BLUE BIRD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS ONCE THE SOFTWARE UPDATE BECOMES AVAILABLE. THE AFFECTED BUSES WILL BE REPAIRED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 23, 2011. O... Read more

13,645 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Defect Description

BLUE BIRD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004 THROUGH 2009 VISION SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM JANUARY 30, 2003 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 24, 2008. THE POWER CABLES RUNNING TO THE POWER DISTRIBUTION UNIT STUD AND DRIVER'S CONTROL MODULE STUD MAY HAVE BEEN INSTALLED WITH THE LUG (EYELET) FLAT SIDE UP. W... Read more

Consequence

THIS CONDITION COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.

Remedy

BLUE BIRD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPAIR THE BUSES AS NECESSARY FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN MAY 26, 2020. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BLUE BIRD AT 1-478-822-2242.

18,821 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Defect Description

BLUE BIRD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004 THROUGH 2009 VISION NON-SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 19, 2003 THROUGH JULY 2, 2008. THE POWER CABLES RUNNING TO THE POWER DISTRIBUTION UNIT STUD AND DRIVER'S CONTROL MODULE STUD MAY HAVE BEEN INSTALLED WITH THE LUG (EYELET) FLAT SIDE UP. W... Read more

Consequence

THIS CONDITION COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.

Remedy

BLUE BIRD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPAIR THE BUSES AS NECESSARY FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 26, 2020. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BLUE BIRD AT 1-478-822-2242.

195 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY

SEATS

Defect Description

BLUE BIRD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004 THROUGH 2010 ALL AMERICAN, VISION, MICRO BIRD, AND CONVENTIONAL SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JANUARY 30, 2003 AND MAY 7, 2009. INCORRECT OFFSET LEG BARRIER PADS OR 2/3 SEAT BACK PADS MAY HAVE BEEN INSTALLED. BUSES WITH INCORRECT PADS INSTALLED FA... Read more

Consequence

IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THERE IS AN INCREASED RISK OF INJURY TO THE SEAT OCCUPANT(S).

Remedy

BLUE BIRD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND THE BUSES WILL BE REPAIRED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 18, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BLUE BIRD AT 1-478-822-2242.

37,095 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY:CABLES

Defect Description

BLUE BIRD IS RECALLING 4,591 MY 2007 AND 2008 VISION CONVENTIONAL SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM MARCH 29, 2006 THROUGH DECEMBER 3, 2007, EQUIPPED WITH CATERPILLAR C7 ENGINES. THE MAIN BATTERY POWER CABLE MAY CHAFE AGAINST THE ENGINE COMPONENTS AT THE REAR OF THE ENGINE.

Consequence

CHAFING OF THE CABLE CAN RESULT IN A DIRECT SHORT WITH POTENTIAL FOR FIRE.

Remedy

BLUE BIRD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND INSPECT AND CORRECT THE BUSES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 2, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BLUE BIRD AT 1-478-822-2242.

4,591 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

Defect Description

THE HYDRAULIC BRAKE HOSES FROM THE MASTER CYLINDER TO THE CHASSIS FRAME MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY ROUTED OR RETAINED ON CERTAIN 2004 THROUGH 2009 MY BLUE BIRD VISION CONVENTIONAL SCHOOL AND TRANSIT BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM JANUARY 11, 2004 THROUGH APRIL 22, 2008.

Consequence

IMPROPER ROUTING OR RETENTION OF THE HYDRAULIC BRAKE HOSES MAY RESULT IN BRAKE HOSES CHAFFING AGAINST THE BUS BODY AND/OR CHASSIS COMPONENTS WHICH COULD CAUSE A LEAK IN THE HYDRAULIC BRAKE SYSTEM RESULTING IN REDUCED BRAKING CAPACITY WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.

Remedy

BLUE BIRD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND INSPECT AND REPAIR THE BUSES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 8, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BLUE BIRD AT 1-478-822-2242.

5,422 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY

STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS

Defect Description

BLUE BIRD IS RECALLING 23,464 MY 2005 THROUGH 2009 ALL AMERICAN AND VISION SCHOOL AND TRANSIT MODEL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM JANUARY 22, 2004, AND MARCH 28, 2008, AND MY 2004 THROUGH 2007 ALL AMERICAN SCHOOL BUSES AND CONVENTIONAL MODEL SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM MARCH 6, 2003, THROUGH JUNE 16, 2... Read more

Consequence

IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THESE PANELS MAY SEPARATE EXPOSING THE OCCUPANTS TO INCREASED RISK OF INJURY.

Remedy

BLUE BIRD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND INSPECT AND REPAIR THE BUSES BY ADDING ADDITIONAL RIVETS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 18, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BLUE BIRD AT 478-822-2242.

23,464 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY

PARKING BRAKE

Defect Description

CERTAIN MY 2007 AND 2008 BLUE BIRD VISION AND ALL AMERICAN SCHOOL AND TRANSIT BUSES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN DECEMBER 1, 2005, AND MAY 24, 2007, AND EQUIPPED WITH BENDIX SR-7 SPRING BRAKE MODULATING VALVES. THE INTERNAL RUBBER CHECK VALVE MAY LEAK CAUSING A DELAY IN THE APPLICATION OF THE SPRING BRAKES... Read more

Consequence

THE DELAYED PARKING BRAKE APPLICATION CAN OCCUR WITHOUT WARNING, LEADING TO UNINTENDED VEHICLE ROLLAWAY.

Remedy

BLUE BIRD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND PROVIDE A FREE REMEDY. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 30, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT BLUE BIRD AT 478-822-2242.

4,530 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY

SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:SUPPLY:CHECK VALVE

Defect Description

CERTAIN BLUE BIRD MY 2004 THROUGH 2007 VISION SCHOOL AND TRANSIT BUSES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN OCTOBER 9, 2003, AND SEPTEMBER 21, 2006, EQUIPPED WITH PARKER SINGLE CHECK VAVLES (SCV) PROVIDED BY BENDIX. THE DEFECT EXISTS IN THE PARKER SCV THAT CONNECTS WITH THE SUPPLY PORT OF THE SR-7 SPRING BRAKE MOD... Read more

Consequence

THIS CONDITION CAN CAUSE A DELAY IN THE APPLICATION OF THE SPRING BRAKES TO PARK THE VEHICLE AFTER THE OPERATOR PULLS THE DASH VALVE BUTTON. THESE CONDITIONS CAN OCCUR WITHOUT WARNING, LEADING TO UNINTENDED VEHICLE ROLLAWAY, BRAKE DRAG, OR IN THE CASE OF LOSS OF PRIMARY CIRCUIT, INABILITY TO MODULA... Read more

Remedy

BLUE BIRD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND PROVIDE A FREE REMEDY. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 30, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT BLUE BIRD AT 478-822-2242.

5,977 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Defect Description

CERTAIN BLUE BIRD 2007 AND 2008 VISION SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN FEBRUARY 9 AND OCTOBER 27, 2006. THE LIFT INNER BARRIER INTERLOCK SWITCH SYSTEM MAY NOT DETECT THE PRESENCE OF A PASSENGER ON THE INNER BARRIER AND ALLOW THE PLATFORM TO MOVE DOWN MORE THAN ONE INCH BELOW FLOOR LEVEL WHILE OCC... Read more

Consequence

IN THE EVENT THIS CONDITION OCCURS DURING PASSENGER OPERATIONS IT MAY BE POSSIBLE FOR THE WHEELCHAIR LIFT TO TIP BACKWARDS ONTO THE PLATFORM IF THE USER IS BACKING ONTO THE LIFT FROM INSIDE THE VEHICLE AND HAS THE SMALL FRONT WHEELS FULLY OR PARTIALLY ON THE INNER BARRIER WHEN THE PLATFORM WAS LOWER... Read more

Remedy

BLUE BIRD IS WORKING WITH RICON TO REPAIR THE BUSES FREE OF CHARGE (PLEASE SEE 06E101). THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT FEBRUARY 26, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT BLUE BIRD AT 478-822-2242.

632 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY

VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:SWITCH/WIRING

Defect Description

CERTAIN 2007 AND 2008 MY BLUE BIRD VISION SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN OCTOBER 16, 2006, AND JANUARY 18, 2007. CONTINUOUS RESETTING OF THE CIRCUIT BREAKER WHEN THE WIPER/WASHER IS OPERATING IN THE WASH/WIPE MODE MAY CAUSE FAILURE IN THE WIRING CIRCUIT RESULTING IN POWER BEING APPLIED TO THE GR... Read more

Consequence

FAILURE OF THE WIPER IN INCLEMENT WEATHER CONDITIONS MAY CAUSE A VEHICLE CRASH, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN PROPERTY DAMAGE, PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.

Remedy

BLUE BIRD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPAIR THE BUSES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON FEBRUARY 28, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT BLUE BIRD AT 478-822-2242.

882 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY

SERVICE BRAKES, AIR

Defect Description

CERTAIN MY 2007 BLUE BIRD VISION SCHOOL BUSES EQUIPPED WITH AIR BRAKES MANUFACTURED FROM AUGUST 17 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 5, 2006. AN INCORRECT FITTING WAS DESIGNED INTO THE SUBASSEMBLY FOR THE REAR AXLE BRAKE VALVE MODULE. A STANDARD 90 DEGREE ELBOW WAS USED WHERE A 90 DEGREE CHECK VALVE SHOULD HAVE B... Read more

Consequence

IN THE EVENT OF A CATASTROPHIC LINE FAILURE, THE EMERGENCY BRAKES WILL APPLY WITHOUT WARNING, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy

BLUE BIRD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPAIR THE BUSES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 29, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BLUE BIRD AT 478-822-2242.

56 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY:CABLES

Defect Description

CERTAIN 2004-2007 MY VISION SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN AUGUST 5, 2003, AND JUNE 13, 2006, EQUIPPED WITH OPTION 40280-02 AMMETER SHUNT. THE POWER CABLE ORIGINALLY INSTALLED BETWEEN THE TOE BOARD AND THE SHUNT MAY BE TOO SHORT AND MAY BREAK DUE TO ENGINE VIBRATION.

Consequence

SHOULD THE POWER CABLE BREAK WHILE THE BUS IS IN USE, THE BUS COULD BECOME STRANDED IN AN ACTIVE LANE WHICH COULD POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy

BLUE BIRD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE SHORT POWER CABLE WITH A LONGER ONE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 31, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BLUE BIRD AT 478-822-2242.

7,980 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY

PARKING BRAKE:CONVENTIONAL:AIR

Defect Description

CERTAIN 2007 VISION SCHOOL BUSES EQUIPPED WITH BENDIX AIR BRAKES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN APRIL 7 AND MAY 26, 2006. THE CHECK VALVE INSIDE THE VALVE CAVITY MAY NOT PROPERLY SEAT, CAUSING INTERNAL AIR LEAKAGE. THIS CAN CAUSE A DELAY IN THE APPLICATION OF THE SPRING BRAKE TO PARK THE VEHICLE AFTER THE... Read more

Consequence

THE DELAYED PARKING BRAKE APPLICATION CAN OCCUR WITHOUT WARNING, LEADING TO UNINTENDED VEHICLE ROLLAWAY, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH, PERSONAL INJURY, OR DEATH.

Remedy

BLUE BIRD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE BRAKE VALVE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 31, 2006. OWNERS CAN CONTACT BLUE BIRD AT 478-822-2242.

272 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY

Complaint Statistics

3 total complaints

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
EQUIPMENT	1
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS	1
STRUCTURE:BODY	1

Incident date: Jan 2, 2014

BODY STRUCTURE BROKEN OR CRACKED AT A-PILLAR AND SEVERAL OTHER LOCATIONS ON LEFT SIDE. ROOF BOW CRACKED AT SIDE EMERGENCY EXIT AT LEFT SIDE. REAR ROOF CAP CRACKED AND PULLING AWAY FROM BODY AT RIVETS. BODY SEEMS TO FLEX AND TWIST CAUSING BREAKAGE ALONG THE BOTTOM OF WINDOWS ALONG LEFT SIDE. WE HAVE ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 1, 1901

2007 AND NEW BLUEBIRD BUSES WITH BAD BRAKE HOSE. CONSUMER STATES THAT THIS HOSE COULD BE CRUSHED OR CUT BY THE SHARP EDGE OF THE BUS BODY. HE STATES THAT THIS WOULD CAUSE THE BUS TO BE UNSAFE TO USE. *KB THE CONSUMER STATED THE BUS WAS MANUFACTURED WITH THE BRAKE HOSE TOE-WRAPPED TO THE TRANSMISSI... Read more

Incident date: Feb 29, 2008

I AM A ALASKA STATE SCHOOL BUS INSPECTOR. I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF YOU HAVE HAD ANY REPORTS ON THE RICON LIFTS MODELS SS5510 UPRIGHT ARMS BENDING AND OR CRACKING. DURING OUR INSPECTIONS IN THE FALL OF 07 AND NOW OUR INSPECTIONS SO FAR IN 08 , WE ARE FINDING A OVER WHELMING AMOUNT OF THESE ARMS BENT A... Read more

Technical Service Bulletins, 2007 BLUE BIRD VISION

29 manufacturer communications from 22 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE	3
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER	3
062000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM	2
220000 SEATS	2
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	2
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL	2
017500 STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY	2
162310 STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS	2

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

SM1905: Blue Bird Vantage Dash Fault Codes Website Blue Bird Vantage "Dash Fault Codes" website page has been updated to include additional new fault codes for all applicable system types (brake, engine, and transmission). Also, "Powertr

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

New Blue Bird Support Center - Technical Bus Support: Dealer memo to announce the new on-line Blue Bird Support Center for technical bus support requests.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Blue Bird Troubleshooting Guides: Blue Bird announcement of the addition of troubleshooting guides for assisting in the service of the Blue Bird products. These troubleshooting guides are available on the Vantage website.

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

BLUE BIRD: CORRECT INFORMATION PROVIDED FOR THE FRONT HUB TORQUE SPECIFICATION, NOT FOUND IN MANUALS FOR CERTAIN BUSES FOR HUB AND ROTOR ASSEMBLY AND FRONT INSTALLATION. MODEL 2005-14 VISION, ALL-AMERICAN AND ACTIVITY. *PE

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

BLUE BIRD: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. ON SOME BUSES A SAFETY ISSUE EXIST REGARDING THE INSTALLATION AND REPLACING OF POWER CABLE AND SHUNT BASE DUE TO BREAKAGE. *PE

355100 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

BLUE BIRD BUS: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. ON CERTAIN MODEL YEAR BUSES, WITH TRACK MOUNTED MODULAR SEATS, A DECAL MAY HAVE BEEN INSTALLED WITH INCORRECT TRACK SEATING INSTRUCTIONS. *PE

220000 SEATS

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

BLUE BIRD BUS: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. ON CERTAIN MODEL YEAR BUSES, ENGINE COOLANT MAY LEAK, DUE TO LOW COOLANT SENSOR, FROM SURGE TANK TO ENGINE HARNESS CONNECTOR AND WICK, THROUGH TO ENGINE ECM AND OTHER COMPONENT

062000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM

111100 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY:CABLES

BLUE BIRD: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. ON CERTAIN MODEL YEAR BUSES, THE WRONG DISCONNECT STUD(S) SWITCH MAY BE CONNECTED TO BATTERY DISCONNECT JUMPER CABLE SWITCH. *PE

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

BLUE BIRD: UPDATE INFORMATION ON SOME MODEL YEAR BUSES REGARDING THE ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES (ECM) RECALIBRATION OF ISB AND ISC ENGINES. *PE

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

BLUE BIRD: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. SOME MODEL YEAR VEHICLE EXPERIENCE SHUTTING DOWN AFTER STARTING UP DUE TO POSITIVE JUMPER CABLE BEING INCORRECTLY ROUTED TO ELECTRICAL POWER STUD INSTEAD OF CHASSIS POWER STUD.

017500 STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY

BLUE BIRD: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. TIE RODS ARE INTERCHANGEABLE. MUST BE INSPECTED FOR CORRECT PART NUMBER AND THREAD ENGAGEMENT IN CROSS TUBE IF REPLACED. *PE

220100 SEATS:BARRIERS

BLUE BIRD: INFORMATION IS BEING PROVIDED REGARDING MAINTENANCE FOR VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ALUMINUM SEAT FLOOR TRACKS. *PE

220000 SEATS

BLUE BIRD: INFORMATION IS BEING PROVIDED REGARDING MAINTENANCE FOR VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ALUMINUM SEAT FLOOR TRACKS. *PE

061200 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL

BLUE BIRD BUS: RE-ISSUE SERVICE UPDATE ENGINE COOLANTS. THE COOLING SYSTEM ON THE BUSES BE PROPERLY MAINTAINED AND MONITORED TO INSURE PROPER OPERATION OF YOUR COOLING SYSTEM. *PE

062000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM

BLUE BIRD BUS: RE-ISSUE SERVICE UPDATE ENGINE COOLANTS. THE COOLING SYSTEM ON THE BUSES BE PROPERLY MAINTAINED AND MONITORED TO INSURE PROPER OPERATION OF YOUR COOLING SYSTEM. *PE

113000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY

BLUE BIRD: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. ON SOME BUSES, STARTER CABLE IS LOCATED ON POWER JUNCTION BLOCK, CAUSING SLOW STARTER CRANKING AND MISDIAGNOSES. STARTER CABLE SHOULD BE LOCATED ON AMMETER JUNCTION BLOCK INSTEAD.

017500 STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY

BLUE BIRD: FOR SOME MODEL YEAR BUSES, FRONT AXLES UNDERGONE SEVERAL CHANGES REGARDING TIE RODS NOT BEING INTERCHANGEABLE WHEN REPLACEMENT SERVICE IS REQUIRED. *PE

136000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER

BLUE BIRD: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. ON MODEL YEAR BUSES, THE BICYCLE CRANK ARM, IN WIPER ASSEMBLY, MUST BE REPLACED DUE TO DESIGN BEING OUT OF SPECIFICATION. *PE

062200 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:FAN

BLUE BIRD: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. INFORMATION ON EXCESSIVE CYCLING OF ENGINE COOLING FAN AND SHUTTER AND HOW TO INSTALL THERMO SWITCHES FOR COOLING SYSTEM AND CHARGE AIR SYSTEM. *PE

062100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:RADIATOR ASSEMBLY

142000 AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW

BLUE BIRD: WINDOWS MAY RATTLE, HAVE WIND NOISE, WATER AND DUST CAN ENTER, NOT CLOSE OR LOCK PROPERLY. TOP RAIL SAGGING DOWNWARD AT CENTER OF SPECTAL PASSENGER WINDOWS. *PE

162310 STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS

BLUE BIRD: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. ON SOME MODEL BUSES, DOOR BRAKE INTERLOCK SYSTEM BECOMES UNRESPONSIVE DUE TO LOW PRESSURE SWITCH AND NOT RELEASING PRESSURE. *PE

162300 STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR

BLUE BIRD: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. ON SOME MODEL BUSES, DOOR BRAKE INTERLOCK SYSTEM BECOMES UNRESPONSIVE DUE TO LOW PRESSURE SWITCH AND NOT RELEASING PRESSURE. *PE

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

BLUE BIRD: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. ON SOME MODEL BUSES, DOOR BRAKE INTERLOCK SYSTEM BECOMES UNRESPONSIVE DUE TO LOW PRESSURE SWITCH AND NOT RELEASING PRESSURE. *PE

162310 STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS

BLUE BIRD: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. ON SOME BUSES, A GUARD WAS DESIGNED TO PREVENT THE SNAGGING OF BAG STRAPS AND JACKET POCKETS ON AIR POWER ENTRANCE DOORS' EMERGENCY RELEASE LEVER. *PE

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

There are no Manufacturer Communications in accordance with 49 CFR 579.5 to report for October 2022 for Blue Bird Body Company.

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

There are no Manufacturer Communications in accordance with 49 CFR 579.5 to report for December 2023 for Blue Bird Body Company.

NHTSA Safety Investigations, BLUE BIRD VISION

Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2016

Blue Bird Draglink Failures

On March 17, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE23-004 to investigate instances of drag link separation in model year (MY) 2016-2020 Vision school buses manufactured by Blue Bird Body Company (Blue Bird). Since drag links are serviceable items that can wear out, ODI opened this... investigation to understand why two drag links separated at the steering arm end shortly after having passed a routine inspection by multiple qualified entities.Two buses used in the same rural school district, owned and maintained by different bus contractors, had both undergone similar annual and semi-annual inspections prior to the start of the school year.Both failed within a week of each other, approximately a month into the school year. ODI interviewed the bus contractors and surveyed the industry to learn what inspection methods were being used and which ones were best at detecting wear in the components.ODI learned that the failed buses had not been inspected using the most thorough methods. ODI collected the drag links from each of the failed buses. Assisted by the Pennsylvania State Police Motor Carrier Enforcement Division and using best practice inspection methods, ODI identified and collected a pre-separation drag link from a neighboring school district. The drag links underwent a teardown inspection at the Vehicle Research and Test Center (VRTC) jointly with Blue Bird and THK-Rhythm Automotive, the drag link manufacturer.In all cases, the visual analysis of each drag link end revealed that the grease at the steering arm end was dirty, discolored, and dry in texture, while the pitman arm end was still clean looking and fluid. ODI reviewed the information request data submitted by Blue Bird.No other separations had been reported.ODI contacted additional fleets to determine whether any other separations had occurred that had not been included in the submitted warranty and claim data.None were found. The grease fitting on the steering arm end is obscured by the steering arm itself.Therefore it is believed that inadequate maintenance resulted in the failures that had not been detected during the less-thorough prior inspections.Blue Bird has agreed to issue a notification to all owners to clearly identify all lubrication points and ensure all owners understand the proper lubrication and inspection methods.Blue Bird will also update their service manuals to convey the industry best practices of having someone turn the steering wheel while someone else inspects the drag links while the wheels are on the ground. Since the drag link failures appear to be caused by maintenance and inspection deficiencies and not due to a design, material or manufacturing issue, this investigation is closed.The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist. The Agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances.Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2008

Engine Compartment Fires

This investigation was opened after ODI became aware of four engine compartment fires allegedly related to fuel leakage from the engine's fuel injector system.ODI conducted field examinations and communicated the identified concerns to Blue Bird.ODI also had discussions with Caterpillar, the engine ... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2007

SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER ASSIST STEERING

THIS INVESTIGATION WAS OPENED AFTER ODI RECEIVED SIX FLEET COMPLAINTS (19 BUSES TOTAL) ALLEGING REPEATED ISSUES OF THE POWER STEERING RESERVOIR GASKET FAILING.IT WAS ALLEGED THAT THE DEGRADED GASKET FELL INTO THE POWER STEERING PUMP, RESULTING IN AN INCREASEDSTEERING EFFORT.ODI IS AWARE OF TWO BUSES... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2008

COOLING FAN SEPARATION

A BLUE BIRD CORPORATION SERVICE BULLETIN DATED DECEMBER 18, 2008, WARNS OWNERS THAT THE RADIATOR COOLING FAN ASSEMBLY MAY HAVE BEEN INSTALLED USINGINCORRECTLY SIZED BOLTS AND SPACERS ONMODEL YEARS 2008 AND 2009 VISION SCHOOL BUSES. THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THE FAN BLADE MAY SEPARATE FROM THE CLUT... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2006

ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE

THIS INVESTIGATION WAS OPENED AFTER ODI LEARNED ABOUT A FIREALLEGED TO HAVE STARTED FROM THE MAIN BATTERY CABLE CHAFING AT THE REAR OF THE ENGINE.THE SUBJECT BUS WAS A NEW 2008 MODEL AND THE BATTERY CABLE RUNS FROM THE ELECTRICAL JUNCTION BLOCK TO THE BATTERY.THE PROBLEM ONLY AFFECTS BUSES EQUIPPED ... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2004

HYDRAULIC BRAKE HOSE CHAFING/LEAKING

IN APRIL, 2008, ODI RECEIVED A LETTER FROM THE MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL ALLEGING THAT THEIR FIELD INSPECTORSWEREFINDING HYDRAULIC BRAKE HOSES THAT WEREBEING CUT OR CRUSHED BY THE SHARP EDGES OF THE BUS BODY AT THE FIREWALL.THEY ALSO SUPPLIED INFORMATION ON ONE BUS THAT EXPERIENCED TOTAL BRAKE L... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2004

OVER STRESSED BATTERY CABLES

THIS INVESTIGATION WAS OPENED AFTER ODI WAS NOTIFIED BY THE GSA AUTOMOTIVE ENGINEERING DIVISION THAT THEY HAVE HAD THREE INCIDENTS WHERE ABATTERY CABLE TERMINAL END FAILED. GSA REPORTED THE POSITIVE BATTERY CABLE AS BEING TOO SHORT AND BEING STRESSED DURING NORMAL OPERATION RESULTING IN A COMPLETE S... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2005

BRAKE AIR PRESSURE BUZZER INOPERATIVE

SEE CLOSING REPORT.

BLUE BIRD VISION - All Years Overview

Complete safety history for the BLUE BIRD VISION across all model years (2004, 2019).

399 Total Recalls

24 Total Complaints

8 Investigations

0 Reported Crashes

2 Reported Fires

0 Reported Deaths

BLUE BIRD VISION - Year by Year

Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.

Year	Recalls	Complaints
2019	41	0	View
2018	35	0	View
2017	28	2	View
2016	27	2	View
2015	27	4	View
2014	22	0	View
2013	25	2	View
2012	19	1	View
2011	22	0	View
2010	25	2	View
2009	28	6	View
2008	30	1	View
2007 (current)	21	3
2006	17	0	View
2005	15	1	View
2004	17	0	View

Other BLUE BIRD Models

Model	Recalls	Complaints
ALL AMERICAN	720	222	View
TC2000	214	39	View
VISION SCHOOL BUS	196	4	View
ALL AMERICAN SCHOOL BUS	148	9	View
CONVENTIONAL	125	20	View
MICRO BIRD	120	0	View
WANDERLODGE	76	7	View
VISION TRANSIT BUS	73	0	View

Vehicle Safety

Consumer Safety

Infrastructure

Public Health

2007 BLUE BIRD VISION

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

Technical Service Bulletins, 2007 BLUE BIRD VISION

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, BLUE BIRD VISION

BLUE BIRD VISION - All Years Overview

BLUE BIRD VISION - Year by Year

Other BLUE BIRD Models