2021 KME Panther, 2022–2023 KME Redundant Panther, 2021–2023 Spartan Fire FC-94 and 2 other models Recall: Tie rod clamps may have been improperly heat-treated, causing them to fail…
NHTSA campaign 22V778000 · Steering · filed Oct 17, 2022 · verified Jul 30, 2026
The defect
Spartan Fire, LLC (Spartan Fire) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Gladiator, MetroStar, FC-94, and KME Panther emergency vehicles. The tie rod clamps may have been improperly heat-treated, causing them to fail and allowing the tie rods to separate.
The risk
Tie rod separation can result in a sudden loss of steering, 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
Dealers will replace the tie rod clamps, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on December 2, 2022. Owners may contact Spartan Fire's customer service at 1-517-543-6400. Spartan Fire's number for this recall is 22007.
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.nhtsa.gov.
Affected vehicles
Related recalls
More KME Panther recalls
- 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…
- 2021 KME Panther and 4 other models — A defect in the inversion valve may delay park brake…
- 2021 KME Panther and 4 other models — Tie rod clamps may have been improperly heat-treated…
Other campaigns involving KME vehicles
Source: NHTSA recall database, campaign 22V778000 (manufacturer number 22007). Data last verified Jul 30, 2026.