Trailer hitchesRecall 19V-490 · 2018–2019 Charles Machine Ditch Witch
Charles Machine Works Inc recall 19V-490 covers 290 2018–2019 Charles Machine Ditch Witch for a trailer hitches problem, reported to NHTSA on June 25, 2019. The manufacturer's latest report (2022 Q3) shows 56% of affected vehicles repaired.
Source: NHTSA recall 19V490000 and manufacturer quarterly reports. Started by the manufacturer.
The problem
Charles Machine Works Inc (Charles Machine) is recalling certain 2018 Ditch Witch VT17, 2018-2019 VT20 and VT24 trailers. The lock nuts that attach the hitch to the trailer may be insufficient to clamp the load after the hitch height has been adjusted.
The risk
Without a sufficient clamp load, the hitch may unexpectedly detach from the trailer, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Charles Machine has notified owners, and will provide new hardware, free of charge. The recall began June 28, 2019. Owners may contact Charles Machine customer service at 1-800-654-6481. Charles Machine's number for this recall is ID0568989.
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.
How fast cars are being fixed
56%repaired
Share of affected vehicles repaired in each quarterly report the manufacturer filed with NHTSA.