2004–2007 Blue Bird Express 4000, 2004–2007 Blue Bird Express 4500, 2003–2006 Blue Bird Ultra LF and 1 other model Recall: Specific potting compound used in the subject products for insulation was…
NHTSA campaign 13V480000 · Electrical System · filed Oct 17, 2013 · verified Jul 30, 2026
The defect
Blue Bird Body Company (Blue Bird) is recalling certain model year 2004 Ultra LMB, 2003-2006 Ultra LF and 2004-2007 Express commercial buses equipped with Sure Power-brand battery equalizers containing a particular epoxy sealing, aka 'potting', compound. The specific potting compound used in the subject products for insulation was found to be capable of conducting electricity after being exposed to heat.
The risk
Once electrically conductive, the material is capable of melting and burning, increasing the risk of 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
Blue Bird will notify owners, and dealers will replace the equalizers, free of charge. The recall began on December 17, 2013. Owners may contact Blue Bird at 1-478-825-2021. Blue Bird's recall number is R13WN.
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 Blue Bird Express 4000 recalls
- 2004 Blue Bird Express 4000 and 3 other models — CERTAIN MOTOR COACHES, MOTOR HOMES, COMMUTER COACHES, AND…
- 2004 Blue Bird Express 4000 and 1 other model — CERTAIN MOTOR COACHES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS…
- 2003 Blue Bird Express 3500 and 3 other models — ON CERTAIN MOTOR HOMES AND TRANSIT COACHES, INCORRECT…
Other campaigns involving Blue Bird vehicles
All Blue Bird Express 4000 recalls → · All Blue Bird recalls →
Source: NHTSA recall database, campaign 13V480000 (manufacturer number R13WN). Data last verified Jul 30, 2026.