The Recall Desk
Our severity:SevereNHTSA·11E037000·Announced 2011-09-21

Masterlock Recalls Aftermarket Tri-Ball Trailer Hitches Due to Weld Failure Risk

Masterlock is recalling specific aftermarket tri-ball mounts because the hitch ball weld may fail, potentially causing the towed vehicle to separate and increasing crash risk.

What this means for you

Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 4/5 (Severe).

The hazard poses a serious risk of illness, injury, or structural failure. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a structural vehicle defect where a weld failure can cause the towed vehicle to separate, explicitly increasing the risk of a crash.

Plain-English summary

Masterlock is recalling certain aftermarket tri-ball mounts, part number 2948AT, that were shipped between May 19, 2011, and July 13, 2011. These mounts were sold for use on motor vehicles. The recall involves 2,160 units.

The defect involves the 2-5/16-inch hitch ball, which may not have been designed to comply with the 10,000 lbs. load requirement. Consequently, the weld can fail. If the weld fails, the vehicle being towed can separate from the towing vehicle, which increases the risk of a crash.

Masterlock will replace the defective tri-ball mounts free of charge. The safety recall began on October 6, 2011. Owners may contact Masterlock at 1-800-464-2088. Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or visit safercar.gov.

The recalled product

Product
TRAILER HITCHES recall
Manufacturer
MASTERLOCK CO.
Category
Vehicle — Towing Equipment
Hazard
Affected units
2,160

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

Related recalls

Same hazard · structural failure

See all →

Similar recalls