2014 Champion Bus Defender Recalls

Recalls on record Updated July 2026

The 2014 Champion Bus Defender has 2 NHTSA recall campaigns affecting an estimated 27 vehicles. Recall repairs are always free at any authorized dealer. Last updated July 5, 2026.

Recall campaigns

POWER TRAIN 14V303000 2014-05-28 2 affected
Defect

Champion Bus, Inc. (Champion) is recalling certain model year 2014 Defender shuttle buses built on Freightliner M2 chassis, equipped with Eaton-brand hybrid automated transmissions. The software controlling the affected transmissions may improperly raise the vehicle's engine speed during downshifts without the…

Consequence

The increase in engine speed may result in unintended acceleration, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA), manufacturer of the Freightliner chassis, has notified owners, and Eaton authorized service facilities has updated the Hybrid Control Module Software version, free of charge. The recall began in May 2014. Owners may contact Champion Bus at 1-810-724-6474. Customers may also…

SEAT BELTS 14V302000 2014-05-28 25 affected
Defect

Champion Bus, Inc. (Champion) is recalling certain model year 2014 Defender shuttle buses built on Freightliner M2 chassis equipped with IMMI-brand L9 seat belt buckles. When the button is pressed to release the seat belt, the latch plate can become partially engaged with the buckle, making the seat belt difficult…

Consequence

If the latch plate remains partially engaged after the button is pressed, egress from the vehicle could be hindered which would increase the risk of injury in the event of an emergency.

Remedy

Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA), manufacturer of the Freightliner chassis, has notified owners, and DTNA dealers will inspect and replace the seat belt buckle, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on May 27, 2014. Owners may contact Champion Bus at 1-810-724-6474 or DTNA at 1-800-385-4357.

Sources & methodology

Recall, complaint, and investigation records from official NHTSA datasets (FLAT_RCL, FLAT_CMPL, FLAT_INV), synced weekly. Counts reflect NHTSA records for the 2014 Champion Bus Defender as of July 5, 2026. Complaint narratives are consumer-submitted and unverified. This page contains ads and affiliate links. Full methodology.