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NHTSA Recall 02V312000: Fifth wheel assembly (trailer hitches)

CARRIAGE, INC. reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 1,450 vehicles. It affects 2 models including the Carriage Carri Lite.

1,450
vehicles potentially affected
2
models affected
2003
owners notified (April 30)
NHTSA campaign02V312000
ComponentTRAILER HITCHES › FIFTH WHEEL ASSEMBLY
Report receivedNovember 19, 2002
Owner notificationApril 30, 2003
Initiated byNHTSA Office of Defects Investigation

Defect

Certain fifth wheel trailers may have an insufficient frame structure to support the pin box.

Safety risk

Over time stress cracks could begin to occur at the frame insertion points and front cross structure surrounding the pin box (hitch). This could result in the trailer becoming partially or fully detached from the tow vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash, personal injury or property damage.

Remedy

Dealers will install a reinforcement kit to the frame structure surrounding the pin box. Owner notification began april 30, 2003. Owners who do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact carriage at 1-800-895-0108.

Notes

Also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

Vehicles covered by recall 02V312000

Make and modelModel years
Carriage Carri Lite1996, 1997, 1998, 1999
Carriage Lite Series1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001

Being listed here means the campaign covers the model year, not that every car was built with the defect or is still unrepaired. Enter your VIN above to check your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are free at authorised dealers. Source: NHTSA, October 2026.