NHTSA Recall 13V480000: Electrical system
Blue Bird Body Company reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 393 vehicles. It affects 4 models including the Blue Bird Express 4000.
| NHTSA campaign | 13V480000 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer campaign | R13WN |
| Component | ELECTRICAL SYSTEM |
| Report received | October 17, 2013 |
| Owner notification | December 17, 2013 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Defect
Blue Bird Body Company (Blue Bird) is recalling certain model year 2004 Ultra LMB, 2003-2006 Ultra LF and 2004-2007 Express commercial buses equipped with Sure Power-brand battery equalizers containing a particular epoxy sealing, aka 'potting', compound. The specific potting compound used in the subject products for insulation was found to be capable of conducting electricity after being exposed to heat.
Safety risk
Once electrically conductive, the material is capable of melting and burning, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Blue Bird will notify owners, and dealers will replace the equalizers, free of charge. The recall began on December 17, 2013. Owners may contact Blue Bird at 1-478-825-2021. Blue Bird's recall number is R13WN.
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.
Vehicles covered by recall 13V480000
| Make and model | Model years |
|---|---|
| Blue Bird Express 4000 | 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 |
| Blue Bird Express 4500 | 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 |
| Blue Bird Ultra LF | 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 |
| Blue Bird Ultra Lmb | 2004 |
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.