NHTSA Recall 19V490000: Trailer hitches
Charles Machine Works Inc reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 290 vehicles. It affects 2018–2019 Charles Machine Ditch Witch.
| NHTSA campaign | 19V490000 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer campaign | ID0568989 |
| Component | TRAILER HITCHES |
| Report received | June 25, 2019 |
| Owner notification | June 28, 2019 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Defect
Charles Machine Works Inc (Charles Machine) is recalling certain 2018 Ditch Witch VT17, 2018-2019 VT20 and VT24 trailers. The lock nuts that attach the hitch to the trailer may be insufficient to clamp the load after the hitch height has been adjusted.
Safety risk
Without a sufficient clamp load, the hitch may unexpectedly detach from the trailer, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Charles Machine has notified owners, and will provide new hardware, free of charge. The recall began June 28, 2019. Owners may contact Charles Machine customer service at 1-800-654-6481. Charles Machine's number for this recall is ID0568989.
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 19V490000
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.