2018–2019 Frontline C-25, 2018–2019 Frontline C-35X, 2018–2019 Frontline C-45X-3 and 1 other model Recall: Pierce Manufacturing (Pierce) is 2018-2019 Frontline C-35X, C-25, C-45X-3…
NHTSA campaign 19V280000 · Exterior Lighting · filed Apr 9, 2019 · verified Jul 30, 2026
The defect
Pierce Manufacturing (Pierce) is 2018-2019 Frontline C-35X, C-25, C-45X-3 and Encore Rescue vehicles equipped with Whelen brake lights. Depending on the specific wiring of the vehicle, these brake lights may illuminate when the brake pedal has not been pressed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
The risk
If the brake lights incorrectly illuminate, it can confuse other drivers, possibly increasing 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
Pierce has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and replace brake lights, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began April 23, 2019. Owners may contact Whelen customer service at 1-860-718-2331 or Pierce at 1-888-974-3723. Pierce's number for this recall is FLCWBL0419.
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 Frontline vehicles
- 2018–2020 Frontline Type I and 7 other models — Rear brake caliper flexible line may have been routed so…
- 2017–2018 Frontline Type I and 9 other models — Depending on the specific wiring of the vehicle, these…
- 2017 Frontline Type I and 4 other models — Due to an incorrect torque specification, the rear brake…
Source: NHTSA recall database, campaign 19V280000 (manufacturer number FLCWBL0419). Data last verified Jul 30, 2026.