The Recall Desk
HighNHTSA·17V504000·Announced 2017-08-14

KME Predator Aerial Vehicles Recalled for Ladder Speed Software Error

KME is recalling 2012-2017 Predator Aerial vehicles because a software error may cause the ladder to accelerate unexpectedly, increasing injury risk.

What this means for you

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a risk-of-harm product where injury has not yet been reported, fitting the High severity criteria for potential injury to users or bystanders.

Plain-English summary

Kovatch Mobile Equipment Corp. (KME) is recalling certain 2012-2014 Predator Aerial and 2014-2017 Predator SS Aerial vehicles. The recall addresses a software error that may cause the aerial ladder tip control speed to momentarily switch from 20 percent speed to 100 percent overall speed.

This unexpected acceleration of the ladder speed can increase the risk of injury to the ladder user or those nearby. The recall began on October 3, 2017.

KME will notify owners, and dealers will update the ladder speed software free of charge. Owners may contact KME customer service at 1-800-235-3926 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.

The recalled product

Product
KME PREDATOR SS AERIAL, PREDATOR AERIAL
Brand
KME
Manufacturer
Kovatch Mobile Equipment Corp.
Category
Vehicle — Aerial Ladder Fire Apparatus
Hazard
Affected units
20

Is your product affected?

Check your packaging against the codes below. If any of them match, the product is part of this recall.

Model numbers (2)

  • PREDATOR SS AERIAL
  • PREDATOR AERIAL

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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Same hazard · uncontrolled acceleration

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