The Recall Desk
Our severity:SevereNHTSA·19V283000·Announced 2019-04-09

Proterra Recalls 2015-2018 Catalyst Buses Due to Brake Fire Risk

Proterra is recalling 2015-2018 Catalyst 40 buses because a clogged tow fitting cap can cause rear brakes to overheat and catch fire.

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 (brake system) that explicitly increases the risk of fire, meeting the criteria for a Severe (4) rating.

Plain-English summary

Proterra, Inc. is recalling certain 2015-2018 Catalyst 40 buses equipped with an optional tow fitting and airline. This component allows a tow truck to operate the rear brakes on the vehicle. The recall affects 39 vehicles.

The mesh cap covering the airline for the tow fitting can become clogged with road debris in inclement weather. This clog can result in a build-up of air pressure in the rear brake system. The increased pressure can cause the brakes to drag and overheat, which increases the risk of fire.

Proterra will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional shield to the tow fitting that protects the mesh cap, free of charge. The recall began on June 4, 2019. Owners may contact Proterra customer service at 1-864-438-0000 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.

The recalled product

Product
PROTERRA CATALYST
Brand
PROTERRA
Manufacturer
Proterra Inc.
Category
Vehicle — Bus
Hazard
Affected units
39

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 (1)

  • CATALYST

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

Related recalls

Same brand · PROTERRA

Same manufacturer · Proterra Inc.

See all →

Same hazard · fire

See all →

Similar recalls