2015–2016 Gillig Low Floor Recall: These buses have gas detection electronics that may be disabled without…

The defect

Gillig LLC (Gillig) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Low Floor compressed natural gas (CNG) transit buses manufactured September 1, 2015, to December 5, 2016, equipped with Amerex SafetyNet fire suppression system panel/controller units. These buses have gas detection electronics that may be disabled without providing the operator with a warning of a system malfunction. Affected display panel/controller units were also provided as replacement parts for warranty claims, part numbers 16389, 24109, 24918, 24926 and 24927.

The risk

If not corrected, the fire suppression systems on certain CNG-powered buses may fail to indicate the presence of a natural gas (methane) leak. In such cases, the driver will not receive a fault code indicating that the Gas Detection electronics have been disabled. This may increase the risk of asphyxiation, fire, or explosion.

The fix — what to do

Gillig will notify owners, and Amerex representatives will replace the Operator Display Panel/Controllers, free of charge. The recall began January 20, 2017. Owners may contact Gillig customer service at 1-800-735-1500.

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.