2012–2017 KME Firestix Recall: Swing drives may not contain lubricating oil, which can cause the internal…
NHTSA campaign 20V006000 · Equipment · filed Jan 8, 2020 · verified Jul 30, 2026
The defect
Kovatch Mobile Equipment Corp. (KME) is recalling one 2017 and certain 2012-2015 Emergency Response KME 55 FT Firestix Aerial Devices. The swing drives may not contain lubricating oil, which can cause the internal gears to become damaged and cause seizing.
The risk
If the swing drive's internal gears become damaged or start seizing, uncontrolled movement of the ladder can occur, increasing the risk of an injury.
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 inspect the swing drives and rebuild them if they do not contain the lubricating oil, free of charge. The recall began February 25, 2020. Owners may contact KME customer service at 1-800-235-3928.
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 KME vehicles
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- 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 20V006000. Data last verified Jul 30, 2026.