2012–2014 KME Predator Aerial, 2014–2017 KME Predator SS Aerial Recall: A software error may cause the aerial ladder tip control speed to…
NHTSA campaign 17V504000 · Electrical System · filed Aug 14, 2017 · verified Jul 30, 2026
The defect
Kovatch Mobile Equipment Corp. (KME) is recalling certain 2012-2014 Predator Aerial, and 2014-2017 Predator SS Aerial vehicles. A software error may cause the aerial ladder tip control speed to momentarily switch from 20 percent speed to 100 percent overall speed.
The risk
The ladder speed accelerating without warning can increase the risk of injury to the ladder user or those nearby.
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
KME will notify owners, and dealers will update the ladder speed software, free of charge. The recall began on October 3, 2017. Owners may contact KME customer service at 1-800-235-3926.
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 Predator Aerial recalls
- 2017–2019 KME Predator Aerial and 13 other models — In the event of a hydraulic system failure while raising or…
- 2017–2019 KME Commercial Pumper and 14 other models — Depending on the specific wiring of the vehicle, these…
- 2015–2018 KME Predator Aerial and 1 other model — If the tether control gets unplugged while it is operating…
- 2015–2016 KME Predator Aerial and 2 other models — Braided cab lift hydraulic hoses, wire braided air lines…
- 2007 KME Predator Aerial and 4 other models — Inconsistent machining may result in fatigue cracks…
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 17V504000. Data last verified Jul 30, 2026.