2008–2012 Autocar Xpeditor Recall: Seatbelt and tether intermediate connection point (ICP) located on the…

The defect

Autocar is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 Xpeditor heavy-duty class 8 vehicles, manufactured from December 17, 2007, through July 10, 2012 and equipped with a right-hand (passenger-side) Bostrom air-ride seat. The seatbelt and tether intermediate connection point (ICP) located on the seat bracket may interfere with the seatbelt retractor mechanism as the seat is pneumatically adjusted for height. Over time, the interference may cause the retractor mechanism cover to crack, allowing the retractor spring to become loose and inoperable. Thus, these vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

The risk

In the event of a crash, if the seat belt retractor malfunctions, the passenger may not be properly restrained, increasing the risk of personal injury or death.

The fix — what to do

Autocar will notify owners and provide instructions for scheduling the vehicle repair, free of charge. The recall began on November 13, 2012. Owners may contact Autocar Service Department at 1-888-218-3611.

Autocar's recall number is A-1202.Customers may contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); or go to http://www.safercar.gov.