Trailer hitchesRecall 13V-351 · 2012–2013 Kaufman Trailer
Kaufman Trailers recall 13V-351 covers 269 2012–2013 Kaufman Trailer for a trailer hitches problem, reported to NHTSA on August 7, 2013. The manufacturer's latest report (2015 Q1) shows 96% of affected vehicles repaired.
Source: NHTSA recall 13V351000 and manufacturer quarterly reports. Started by the manufacturer.
The problem
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.
The risk
If the kingpin button separates, the trailer could become detached from the towing vehicle increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
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.
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.
Recall repairs are free. Confirm whether this recall is open on your vehicle by entering its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Vehicles in this recall
Built from June 26, 2012 to August 6, 2013. Not every vehicle in these model years is included; check by VIN.