2013 E-ONE Cyclone II, 2013 E-ONE Quest, 2013 E-ONE Typhoon Recall: When the button is pressed to release the seat belt, the latch plate can…

The defect

E-One Incorporated (E-One) is recalling certain model year 2013 model Typhoon and Cyclone II fire fighting vehicles equipped with IMMI-brand L9 seat belt buckles. When the button is pressed to release the seat belt, the latch plate can become partially engaged with the buckle, making the seat belt difficult to unlatch. Thus, these vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 209, "Seat Belt Assemblies."

The risk

If the latch plate remains partially engaged after the button is pressed, egress from the vehicle could be hindered which would increase the risk of injury in the event of an emergency.

The fix — what to do

E-One will notify owners and dealers will inspect the seat belt buckle, and if necessary, replace the seat belt buckles, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on, or about, January 17, 2014. Customers may contact E-One at 1-800-627-5050.

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.