2012–2013 KME Panther, 2011 KME Panther II, 2012–2013 KME Predator and 1 other model Recall: These vehicles are equipped with Meritor axle assemblies that were built…
NHTSA campaign 13V137000 · Parking Brake · filed Apr 11, 2013 · verified Jul 30, 2026
The defect
Kovatch Mobile Equipment Corp. (Kovatch) is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Predator, Predator SS, Panther, and model year 2011 Panther II emergency vehicles manufactured February 1, 2011, through February 28, 2013. These vehicles are equipped with Meritor axle assemblies that were built with disc brakes using MGM J24 series air brake chambers. In the affected axles, the brake chambers may leak pressure allowing the parking brake to drag when it is supposed to be released. Brake dragging could lead to overheated brake components.
The risk
Overheated brake components 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
Kovatch will notify owners and will replace the actuators as needed, free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin in May 2013. Owners may contact Kovatch at 1-570-669-5132.
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
More KME Panther recalls
- 2023–2026 KME Panther and 6 other models — Actuator lever arm in the cab door latch may bind or become…
- 2025 KME Panther and 3 other models — A missing mechanical stop may allow the cab tilt cylinder…
- 2023–2025 KME Panther and 2 other models — Lower control arm retention bolts could become brittle and…
- 2021 KME Panther and 4 other models — A defect in the inversion valve may delay park brake…
- 2021 KME Panther and 4 other models — Tie rod clamps may have been improperly heat-treated…
Other campaigns involving KME vehicles
Source: NHTSA recall database, campaign 13V137000. Data last verified Jul 30, 2026.