2014 KME Commercialcab/ Chassis, 2011–2018 KME Predator, 2015 KME Predator Panther and 1 other model Recall: Telma axial retarder braking mechanism may separate from the vehicle while…
NHTSA campaign 20V341000 · Service Brakes · filed Jun 10, 2020 · verified Jul 30, 2026
The defect
Kovatch Mobile Equipment Corp. (KME) is recalling certain 2011 and 2013-2020 Predator Severe Service, 2015 Predator Panther, 2011, 2013-2014 and 2017-2018 Predator, and 2014 KME commercial cab/chassis firetrucks equipped with optional Telma induction braking systems. The Telma axial retarder braking mechanism may separate from the vehicle while it is moving.
The risk
A retarder that separates from the vehicle may increase 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
KME will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the mounting hardware on axial retarders and replace any incorrect hardware, free of charge. This recall is expected to begin July 2020. Owners may contact KME customer service at 1-800-678-1910.
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 Commercialcab/ Chassis 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…
All KME Commercialcab/ Chassis recalls → · All KME recalls →
Source: NHTSA recall database, campaign 20V341000. Data last verified Jul 30, 2026.