2009–2013 Champion Bus Defender, 2009 Champion American Crusader, 2006–2013 Champion Challenger and 1 other model Recall: Buses are equipped with a Ricon manufactured wheelchair lift which has an…
NHTSA campaign 12V593000 · Equipment · filed Dec 18, 2012 · verified Jul 30, 2026
The defect
Champion Bus is recalling certain model year 2006, and certain model year 2008-2013 buses, models: American Crusader, Challenger, Crusader, and Defender; manufactured September 30, 2006, through November 16, 2012. The buses are equipped with a Ricon manufactured wheelchair lift which has an optional armored pendant cable. The cable may have been installed such that it doesn't clear the wheelchair lift and without a protective cover, or a misinstalled protective cover.
The risk
The cable may contact the power lug at the base of the wheel chair lift causing a short circuit that could result in a fire.
Check whether your specific vehicle is affected
Recall campaigns often cover only certain VIN ranges. Enter your VIN on the official NHTSA site to confirm whether your vehicle is included and whether the repair is still open.
Check VIN on NHTSA →The fix — what to do
Champion Bus is working with Ricon to notify owners. Ricon will provide a supplemental cover kit with instructions, free of charge. Owners may contact Champion Bus at 1-819-724-6474 or Ricon at 1-818-267-3000.
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.
Affected vehicles
Related recalls
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All Champion Bus Defender recalls → · All Champion Bus recalls →
Source: NHTSA recall database, campaign 12V593000. Data last verified Jul 30, 2026.