2012 Collins DE, 2012 Collins DH, 2012 Collins SH and 9 other models Recall: Split sash windows fail to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor…

The defect

Collins is recalling certain model year 2012 Collins, Mid-Bus, or Corbeil SL, SH, DH, and DE model school and multi-function school activity buses manufacturer from March 15, 2012, through October 30, 2012, equipped with Spectal split sash emergency egress windows. The split sash windows fail to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 217, "Bus Emergency Exits and Window Retention and Release." The windows may have an improperly installed retainer bar, insufficient strength of the egress window latch connecting rod, and/or missing or failed window fasteners.

The risk

In the event of a crash, vehicle occupants may not be able to exit the bus, increasing the risk of injury. If all the fasteners on a single retaining bar failed, the window would not remain secured to the bus, creating a risk of injury for passengers or persons outside of the bus.

The fix — what to do

Collins will notify owners, and dealers will repair the buses free of charge. The safety recall began during September 2012. Owners may contact Collins at 1-800-533-1850.

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.