2010–2011 KME Arff, 2009–2013 KME Panther, 2010–2013 KME Panther II and 2 other models Recall: Grease fitting in the steering column shaft may get caught in the column…
NHTSA campaign 13V187000 · Steering · filed May 9, 2013 · verified Jul 30, 2026
The defect
Kovatch Mobile Equipment Corp. (Kovatch) is recalling certain model year 2009-2013 Predator, Predator SS, Panther; 2010-2011 ARFF; and model year 2010-2013 Panther II emergency vehicles. The grease fitting in the steering column shaft may get caught in the column cover. The grease fitting could tear the cover which will impact the driver's ability to steer the vehicle.
The risk
A sudden loss of steering control may increase the risk of a crash.
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 dealers will remove the grease fitting, free of charge. The safety recall began on May 20, 2013. Owners may contact Kovatch at 1-570-669-5173. Kovatch's recall campaign number is 2013-E01.
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
Other campaigns involving KME vehicles
- 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…
Source: NHTSA recall database, campaign 13V187000 (manufacturer number 2013-E01). Data last verified Jul 30, 2026.