NHTSA Recall 13V351000
Filed by Kaufman Trailers Group, LLC.. Component: Trailer Hitches. Reported 2013-08-07. An estimated 269 vehicles are affected. Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer.
Defect
Kaufman Trailers of NC, Inc. and Kaufman Trailers of NE, Inc. (Kaufman) is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 gooseneck auto transport trailers and equipment trailers manufactured June 26, through August 6, 2013. These trailers are equipped with kingpins attched to square bottom plates which may crack over time, causing the button to separate from the bottom plate.
Risk
If the kingpin button separates, the trailer could become detached from the towing vehicle increasing the risk of a crash.
What the manufacturer will do
Kaufman will notify owners instructing them to inspect their trailers for kingpins with square bottom plates. Kaufman will ship replacement kingpins to owners of affected trailers, free of charge. The recall began on August 16, 2013. Owners may contact Kaufman at 1-336-790-6800.
Notes
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.