2012–2013 Champion 3035RE, 2012 Champion CX300, 2011 Champion CX340 and 1 other model Recall: Chassis are equipped with connectors for diode jumpers that may come…

The defect

Champion Bus is recalling certain model year 2011 through 2013 CX300, CX340, CX380, and 3035RE model transit buses manufactured from January 24, 2011, through November 7, 2012, built on Freightliner brand XB and XC custom chassis. The chassis are equipped with connectors for diode jumpers that may come loose, resulting in an open circuit. Two circuits are affected: The one that disengages the cruise control with brake pedal use, and the one that illuminates the brake lights with brake pedal use.

The risk

Failure of the cruise control to disengage when the brakes are applied may increase the risk of a vehicle crash. Without the brake lights illuminating when the brakes are applied, the driver's intent is not communicated, increasing the risk of a crash.

The fix — what to do

Daimler Trucks (DTNA) will notify owners on behalf of Champion Bus, and Freightliner dealers will inspect the diode jumpers to make sure they are fully locked in place and will correct the vehicles as needed. The recall is expected to begin January 28, 2013. Owners should contact DTNA Warranty Campaigns Department at (800) 547-0712, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Pacific Time Monday through Friday, e-mail address [email protected], or the Customer Assistance Center at (800) FTL-HELP after normal business hours.

DTNA's recall campaign number is FL-634.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.