2008 BLUE BIRD VISION — Problems, Recalls & Safety Data
N/A
Safety Rating
1
Owner Complaint
30
Recalls
8
Service Bulletins
2
Investigations
Overview of the 2008 BLUE BIRD VISION
The 2008 BLUE BIRD VISION has received a total of 1 safety complaint filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). There have been 36 recall campaigns affecting this vehicle, covering issues with PARKING BRAKE, SEATS:BARRIERS. 8 technical service bulletins have been issued by Blue Bird Body Company for this model year. The most commonly reported problem area is the Service Brakes Air (1 complaint).
Recalls for the 2008 BLUE BIRD VISION
NHTSA has recorded 36 recalls for the 2008 BLUE BIRD VISION, potentially affecting up to 183,778 vehicles.
Recall 20V234000 — PARKING BRAKE
| 2,264 vehicles affected
Defect: 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 such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle...
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...
View full details →Recall 20V234000 — PARKING BRAKE
| 2,264 vehicles affected
Defect: 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 such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle...
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...
View full details →Recall 20V125000 — SEATS:BARRIERS
| 2,790 vehicles affected
Defect: Blue Bird Body Company (Blue Bird) is recalling certain 2008-2021 Vision and All American school buses. The seat barrier behind the driver seat with an integrated 3-point seat belt may have been installed incorrectly and may be missing the reinforcing bracket. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 222,...
Consequence: In the event of a crash, the seat barrier may not adequately protect the occupant seated behind the seat barrier separating them from the driver seat with integrated 3-point seat belt, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Blue Bird will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and properly install the seat barrier including adding reinforcing bracket, as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 23, 2020. Owners may contact Blue Bird customer service...
View full details →Recall 20V125000 — SEATS:BARRIERS
| 2,790 vehicles affected
Defect: Blue Bird Body Company (Blue Bird) is recalling certain 2008-2021 Vision and All American school buses. The seat barrier behind the driver seat with an integrated 3-point seat belt may have been installed incorrectly and may be missing the reinforcing bracket. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 222,...
Consequence: In the event of a crash, the seat barrier may not adequately protect the occupant seated behind the seat barrier separating them from the driver seat with integrated 3-point seat belt, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Blue Bird will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and properly install the seat barrier including adding reinforcing bracket, as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 23, 2020. Owners may contact Blue Bird customer service...
View full details →Recall 16V100000 — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
| 733 vehicles affected
Defect: Blue Bird Body Company (Blue Bird) is recalling certain model year 2008-2009 Vision school buses manufactured from May 10, 2007, through March 5, 2008 and equipped with Caterpillar C707 engines. In the affected buses, the positive starter cable may be incorrectly attached to the same Power Distribution Unit (PDU) stud as the battery cable, exposing the smaller battery cable to...
Consequence: Exposure to high current draw may cause the battery cable to overheat, melt the wire insulation and increase the risk of a short circuit and a fire.
Remedy: Blue Bird will notify owners, and dealers will relocate the starter cable to the chassis power stud. Any damaged battery cables will be replaced. These repairs will be made free of charge. The recall began on March 10, 2016. Owners...
View full details →Recall 16V100000 — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY
| 733 vehicles affected
Defect: Blue Bird Body Company (Blue Bird) is recalling certain model year 2008-2009 Vision school buses manufactured from May 10, 2007, through March 5, 2008 and equipped with Caterpillar C707 engines. In the affected buses, the positive starter cable may be incorrectly attached to the same Power Distribution Unit (PDU) stud as the battery cable, exposing the smaller battery cable to...
Consequence: Exposure to high current draw may cause the battery cable to overheat, melt the wire insulation and increase the risk of a short circuit and a fire.
Remedy: Blue Bird will notify owners, and dealers will relocate the starter cable to the chassis power stud. Any damaged battery cables will be replaced. These repairs will be made free of charge. The recall began on March 10, 2016. Owners...
View full details →Recall 16V100000 — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY:CABLES
| 733 vehicles affected
Defect: Blue Bird Body Company (Blue Bird) is recalling certain model year 2008-2009 Vision school buses manufactured from May 10, 2007, through March 5, 2008 and equipped with Caterpillar C707 engines. In the affected buses, the positive starter cable may be incorrectly attached to the same Power Distribution Unit (PDU) stud as the battery cable, exposing the smaller battery cable to...
Consequence: Exposure to high current draw may cause the battery cable to overheat, melt the wire insulation and increase the risk of a short circuit and a fire.
Remedy: Blue Bird will notify owners, and dealers will relocate the starter cable to the chassis power stud. Any damaged battery cables will be replaced. These repairs will be made free of charge. The recall began on March 10, 2016. Owners...
View full details →Recall 15V730000 — EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
| 5,114 vehicles affected
Defect: 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 by the Ricon Corporation. The affected lifts are equipped with folding link arms that may have...
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...
View full details →Recall 15V731000 — EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
| 90 vehicles affected
Defect: 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 Corporation. The affected lifts are equipped with folding link arms that may have pivot...
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...
View full details →Recall 14V510000 — EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
| 5,114 vehicles affected
Defect: 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 platform side plate of the affected wheelchair lifts may crack.
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...
View full details →Recall 14V511000 — EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
| 90 vehicles affected
Defect: 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 of the affected wheelchair lifts may crack.
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...
View full details →Recall 13V332000 — STRUCTURE
| 172 vehicles affected
Defect: 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 joints. Without the adhesive, these vehicles fail to conform to the standards of Federal...
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.
View full details →Recall 11V499000 — SEATS:BARRIERS
| 54 vehicles affected
Defect: 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 MAY MAKE CONTACT WITH THE 2-PASSENGER SEAT INSTALLED FORWARD OF THE BARRIER....
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.
View full details →Recall 11V175000 — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
| 61 vehicles affected
Defect: BLUE BIRD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 THROUGH 2010 VISION NON 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 SAFETY STANDARD NO. 105, "HYDRAULIC AND ELECTRIC BRAKE SYSTEMS," AND FMVSS NO....
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....
View full details →Recall 11V174000 — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
| 13,645 vehicles affected
Defect: 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 SAFETY STANDARD NO. 105, "HYDRAULIC AND ELECTRIC BRAKE SYSTEMS," AND FMVSS NO. 121,...
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....
View full details →Recall 10V289000 — ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
| 3,686 vehicles affected
Defect: BLUE BIRD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 THROUGH 2010 ALL AMERICAN AND VISION MODEL SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 23, 2007 THROUGH MARCH 9, 2010, EQUIPPED WITH CATERPILLAR C7 ENGINES. THE #5 AND #6 FUEL LINES MAY CRACK AT THE FASTENING POINT TO THE COMMON FUEL RAIL AND CAUSE A FUEL LEAK.
Consequence: A FUEL LEAK, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE.
Remedy: BLUE BIRD IS WORKING WITH CATERPILLER TO NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED BY AUTHORIZED CATERPILLAR DEALERS FREE OF CHARGE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CATERPILLAR TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-447-4986 OR BLUE BIRD AT 1-478-822-2242.
View full details →Recall 10V290000 — ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
| 103 vehicles affected
Defect: BLUE BIRD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 THROUGH 2010 ALL AMERICAN, VISION, AND EXCEL 102 MODEL NON SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 17, 2007 THROUGH NOVEMBER 13, 2008, EQUIPPED WITH CATERPILLAR C7 ENGINES. THE #5 AND #6 FUEL LINES MAY CRACK AT THE FASTENING POINT TO THE COMMON FUEL RAIL AND CAUSE A FUEL LEAK.
Consequence: A FUEL LEAK, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE.
Remedy: BLUE BIRD IS WORKING WITH CATERPILLAR TO NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED BY AUTHORIZED CATERPILLAR DEALERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 9, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CATERPILLAR TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-447-4986 OR BLUE BIRD AT...
View full details →Recall 10V170000 — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
| 195 vehicles affected
Defect: 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. WHEN THIS CONDITION EXISTS, VIBRATION MAY WEAR THE INSULATION PERMITTING DIRECT CONTACT...
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.
View full details →Recall 10V169000 — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
| 18,821 vehicles affected
Defect: 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. WHEN THIS CONDITION EXISTS, VIBRATION MAY WEAR THE INSULATION PERMITTING DIRECT CONTACT...
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.
View full details →Recall 09V335000 — OTHER:SCHOOL BUS STOP ARM ASSEMBLY
| 3,736 vehicles affected
Defect: BLUE BIRD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 AND 2009 ALL AMERICAN, VISION, AND MICRO BIRD SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN APRIL 18, 2008 AND FEBRUARY 11, 2009, EQUIPPED WITH SPECIALTY MANUFACTURING, INC. (SMI) 000290 LED LIGHT KITS. A CHANGE TO THE WIRE USED IN THE LED LIGHT KITS MAY REDUCE THE EFFECTIVE LIFE OF THE LIGHTS USED ON THE STOP...
Consequence: SHOULD THE LED LIGHTS STOP FUNCTIONING, VISIBILITY OF A STOPPED BUS WOULD BE DECREASED, POSSIBLY ENDANGERING A CHILD OR PEDESTRIAN TO INJURY BY PASSING VEHICLES.
Remedy: BLUE BIRD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND THE BUSES WILL BE REPAIRED FREE OF CHARGE. REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED BY SMI. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 24, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SMI WARRANTY SERVICE AT 1-800-951-7867 OR BLUE BIRD AT...
View full details →Recall 09V328000 — SEATS
| 37,095 vehicles affected
Defect: 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 FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO....
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.
View full details →Recall 09V251000 — SEATS
| 69 vehicles affected
Defect: BLUE BIRD IS RECALLING 69 MODEL YEAR 2008 THROUGH 2010 MICRO BIRD AND VISION SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 29, 2007 THROUGH MAY 2, 2009, EQUIPPED WITH OPTIONAL 34 INCH OFFSET BARRIER. THE OFFSET LEG OF THE BARRIER FRAME MAY HAVE BEEN LOCATED INCORRECTLY AND INCORRECT PADDING MAY HAVE BEEN INSTALLED ON THE 34 INCH OFFSET BARRIERS WHICH FAILS TO...
Consequence: VEHICLE OCCUPANTS MAY SUFFER INJURIES IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy: BLUE BIRD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE BARRIER PADS WITH A NEW DESIGNED PAD FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 12, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BLUE BIRD AT 1-478-822-2242.
View full details →Recall 09V284000 — STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
| 7,772 vehicles affected
Defect: BLUE BIRD IS RECALLING 7,772 MODEL YEAR 2008 THROUGH 2010 VISION SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM MARCH 27, 2007 THROUGH JUNE 10, 2009. THE LID GASKET ON THE POWER STEERING RESERVOIR MAY DETERIORATE AND CONTAMINATE THE POWER STEERING FLUID WHICH COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSIST.
Consequence: LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSIST COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy: BLUE BIRD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPAIR THE BUSES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGN BEGAN ON AUGUST 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BLUE BIRD AT 1-478-822-2242.
View full details →Recall 09V075000 — ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:FAN
| 3,419 vehicles affected
Defect: BLUE BIRD IS RECALLING 3,419 MY 2008 AND 2009 VISION CONVENTIONAL SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM JANUARY 18, 2007 THROUGH OCTOBER 29, 2008, EQUIPPED WITH CATERPILLAR C7 AND C7 07 ENGINES. INCORRECT BOLTS AND/OR SPACERS MAY HAVE BEEN INSTALLED TO ATTACH THE FAN BLADE TO THE FAN CLUTCH.
Consequence: AS A RESULT, THE FAN BLADE MAY SEPARATE FROM THE CLUTCH AND POTENTIALLY CAUSE PROPERTY DAMAGE OR PERSONAL INJURY TO PERSONS IN OR NEAR THE FRONT OF THE BUS. THE VEHICLE SHOULD NOT BE SERVICED WITH THE HOOD OPEN AND THE ENGINE RUNNING UNTIL THE BOLTS/SPACERS HAVE BEEN INSPECTED AND, IF NEEDED, REPLACED.
Remedy: BLUE BIRD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE BUSES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 7, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BLUE BIRD AT 1-478-822-2242.
View full details →Recall 09V055000 — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY:CABLES
| 4,591 vehicles affected
Defect: 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.
View full details →Recall 08V229000 — STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
| 23,464 vehicles affected
Defect: 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, 2006. THE RIVET PATTERN MAY BE INCORRECT IN SECTIONS OF THE...
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.
View full details →Recall 08V229000 — STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
| 23,464 vehicles affected
Defect: 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, 2006. THE RIVET PATTERN MAY BE INCORRECT IN SECTIONS OF THE...
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.
View full details →Recall 08V312000 — SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
| 5,422 vehicles affected
Defect: 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.
View full details →Recall 08V312000 — SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
| 5,422 vehicles affected
Defect: 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.
View full details →Recall 07V275000 — PARKING BRAKE
| 4,530 vehicles affected
Defect: 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 TO PARK THE VEHICLE AFTER THE OPERATOR PULLS THE DASH...
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.
View full details →Recall 07V407000 — ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
| 1,339 vehicles affected
Defect: CERTAIN 2008 BLUE BIRD VISION SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 6 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 4, 2007. THE OIL FILL CAP MAY SEPARATE FROM THE OIL FILL TUBE ALLOWING ENGINE OIL TO BE EMITTED FROM THE TUBE. OIL COULD WET THE LEFT FRONT BRAKE SHOES/PADS RESULTING IN REDUCED BRAKING CAPACITY.
Consequence: A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR.
Remedy: BLUE BIRD IS ADVISING THE OWNERS TO REMOVE THEIR BUSES FROM SERVICE UNTIL THEY HAVE THE BUSES REPAIRED AND TO CONTACT A CATERPILLAR DEALER FOR AN INTERIM REPAIR. THE INTERIM REPAIR CONSISTS OF INSTALLING TWO SCREWS THROUGH THE OIL FILL...
View full details →Recall 07V021000 — VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:SWITCH/WIRING
| 882 vehicles affected
Defect: 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 GROUND WHICH COULD CAUSE THE CIRCUIT BREAKER TO OVERHEAT AND FAIL RESULTING...
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.
View full details →Recall 07V035000 — EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
| 632 vehicles affected
Defect: 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 OCCUPIED WHICH DOES NOT CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE...
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 LOWERED. A STANDEE COULD LOOSE HIS OR HER BALANCE IF THEY WERE POSITIONED FULLY OR PARTLY ON THE INNER BARRIER WHEN THE PLATFORM IS LOWERED. EITHER CONDITION COULD CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY.
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.
View full details →Recall 06V464000 — STEERING:COLUMN
| 227 vehicles affected
Defect: CERTAIN 2008 BLUE BIRD VISION SCHOOL BUSES BUILT FROM OCTOBER 23 THROUGH NOVEMBER 21, 2006. A TEMPORARY BOLT WAS USED TO SECURE THE STEERING WHEEL DURING THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS. THE TEMPORARY BOLT WAS TO BE REMOVED AND REPLACED WITH A PERMANENT BOLT WITH A LOCK COATING DURING THE FINAL ASSEMBLY STAGE. THE TEMPORARY BOLT WAS NOT REMOVED AND REPLACED ON...
Consequence: REUSE OF THE ATTACHING SCREW COULD ALLOW THE STEERING WHEEL TO LOOSEN DURING OPERATION WHICH COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH CAUSING INJURY OR DEATH TO OCCUPANTS.
Remedy: BLUE BIRD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPAIR THE BUSES BY REPLACING THE SCREW WITH A NEW ATTACHING SCREW FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 11, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BLUE BIRD AT 478-822-2242.
View full details →Recall 07V338000 — ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL
| 438 vehicles affected
Defect: CERTAIN BLUE BIRD MY 2008 ALL AMERICAN AND VISION SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JUNE 6 AND JULY 27, 2007. A FUEL PUMP FAILURE WILL DILUTE THE ENGINE OIL WITH FUEL AND CAUSE LOSS OF THROTTLE CONTROL AND EXCESSIVE SMOKE.
Consequence: EITHER CONDITION COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy: BLUE BIRD IS WORKING IN CONJUNCTION WITH CATERPILLAR TO NOTIFY OWNERS TO CONTACT THEIR LOCAL CATERPILLAR DEALER FOR A FREE REMEDY. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING AUGUST 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT CATERPILLAR AT 1-800-447-4986 OR BLUE BIRD AT...
View full details →Recall 08V309000 — ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL
| 1,824 vehicles affected
Defect: A PLUG ON THE OUTLET SIDE OF THE FUEL PUMP CAN CRACK ON CERTAIN 2008 AND 2009 MY BLUE BIRD ALL AMERICAN AND VISION SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 23, 2007 THROUGH JULY 4, 2008, EQUIPPED WITH CATERPILLAR C7 ENGINES.
Consequence: A CRACK IN THIS PLUG CAN RESULT IN A HIGH PRESSURE FUEL SPRAY OR LEAK WHICH, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
Remedy: BLUE BIRD IS WORKING IN CONJUNCTION WITH CATERPILLAR TO NOTIFY OWNERS TO CONTACT THEIR LOCAL CATERPILLAR DEALER FOR A FREE REMEDY. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JULY 2008. OWNERS CAN CONTACT CATERPILLAR AT 1-800-447-4986 OR BLUE BIRD AT...
View full details →Owner Complaints for the 2008 BLUE BIRD VISION
1 complaint has been filed with NHTSA for the 2008 BLUE BIRD VISION. Below is a breakdown by vehicle component.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Injuries | Deaths |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Service Brakes Air | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Most Recent Complaints
TL*THE SCHOOL OWNS A 2008 BLUE BIRD VISION SCHOOL BUS. THE SCHOOL BUS WAS INSPECTED BY THE DEALER BECAUSE IT WAS VIBRATING. WHILE DRIVING GREATER THAN 60 MPH, ONE OF THE FRONT WHEELS WOULD RUB AGAINST AND RUPTURE THE BRAKE LINE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 3,422.
Safety Rating for the 2008 BLUE BIRD VISION
NHTSA has not yet tested the 2008 BLUE BIRD VISION in its New Car Assessment Program.
Technical Service Bulletins for the 2008 BLUE BIRD VISION
Blue Bird Body Company has issued 8 technical service bulletins (TSBs) for the 2008 BLUE BIRD VISION. TSBs are notices sent by manufacturers to their dealers describing a known issue and the recommended repair procedure.
SB-S-10-RD — ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
BLUE BIRD BUS: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. THE ENGINE COOLANT AND/OR TRANSMISSION MAY BECOME CONTAMINATED DUE TO HIGH PRESSURE CYCLING OF INTERNAL TRANSMISSION OIL COOLER OF RADIATOR ASSEMBLY BECOMING FATIGUE. *PE
S0801 — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
BLUE BIRD BUS: ELECTRONIC COMPONENT PROGRAMMING. SERVICE STONERIDGE INSTRUMENT PANELS AND I/O CONTROLS MULTIPLEX BOXES. *PE
SB-S-08-NR — ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:FAN
BLUE BIRD: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. ON CERTAIN MODEL YEAR BUSES, THE FAN BLADE WAS INSTALLED TO THE FAN CLUTCH WITH INCORRECT LENGTH BOLTS AND/OR SPACERS, WHICH MAY SEPARATE FROM CLUTCH AND CAUSE DAMAGE TO BLADE. *PE
SB-S08 — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY:CABLES
BLUE BIRD BUS SERVICE CAMPAIGN: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. THE POSITIVE JUMPER CABLE IS ROUTED INCORRECTLY. AS A RESULT, THE ENGINE MAY EXPERIENCE SHUTDOWN AFTER INITIAL START UP. TO CORRECT THIS CONDITION THE JUMPER CABLE SHOULD BE MOVED FROM THE ELECTRICAL POWER STUD TO THE CHASSIS POWER...
SB-S-07-MU — STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:POWER STEERING FLUID
BLUE BIRD: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. ON SOME MODEL YEAR BUSES, POWER STEERING RESERVOIR CAP WOULD BE LEAKING STEERING FLUID. TO CORRECT CONDITION, NEW CAP WAS DEVELOPED. *PE
SB-S-07-MH — ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS
BLUE BIRD: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. SOME MODEL BUSES MAY HAVE ALTERNATOR DRIVE BELT THAT IS TOO LONG AND INSUFFICIENT TENSION ON FAN PULLEY TO PREVENT ENGINE FROM OVERHEATING SHOULD BE REPLACED. *PE
SB-S-07-MH — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
BLUE BIRD: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. SOME MODEL BUSES MAY HAVE ALTERNATOR DRIVE BELT THAT IS TOO LONG AND INSUFFICIENT TENSION ON FAN PULLEY TO PREVENT ENGINE FROM OVERHEATING SHOULD BE REPLACED. *PE
SB-S-07-LT — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
BLUE BIRD: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. ON SOME MODEL BUSES, AN ISSUE WITH THE INSTRUMENT PANEL, WARNING LIGHT, WAIT TO START, FAILS TO FUNCTION PROPERLY AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. *PE
NHTSA Investigations for the 2008 BLUE BIRD VISION
NHTSA has opened 2 investigations into potential safety defects in the 2008 BLUE BIRD VISION.
Investigation PE10018 — FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM Closed
Opened:
Engine Compartment Fires
Investigation PE09029 — STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM Closed
Opened:
SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER ASSIST STEERING
Other Model Years of the BLUE BIRD VISION
- 2003 BLUE BIRD VISION — 0 complaints
- 2004 BLUE BIRD VISION — 0 complaints
- 2005 BLUE BIRD VISION — 1 complaint
- 2006 BLUE BIRD VISION — 0 complaints
- 2007 BLUE BIRD VISION — 3 complaints
- 2008 BLUE BIRD VISION (current)
- 2009 BLUE BIRD VISION — 6 complaints
- 2010 BLUE BIRD VISION — 2 complaints
- 2011 BLUE BIRD VISION — 0 complaints
- 2012 BLUE BIRD VISION — 1 complaint
- 2013 BLUE BIRD VISION — 2 complaints
Other BLUE BIRD Models
- BLUE BIRD ALL AMERICAN — 222 total complaints
- BLUE BIRD SCHOOL BUS — 50 total complaints
- BLUE BIRD TC2000 — 38 total complaints
- BLUE BIRD BLUE BIRD — 27 total complaints
- BLUE BIRD CONVENTIONAL — 20 total complaints
- BLUE BIRD WANDERLODGE M450 LXI — 17 total complaints
- BLUE BIRD SBCV — 12 total complaints
- BLUE BIRD ALL AMERICAN SCHOOL BUS — 9 total complaints