Investigation EA04032: 2003–2004 Keystone Outback

Status

CLOSED

Opened

Nov 23, 2004

Closed

Dec 30, 2005

Model years

2003–2004

Subject

Wheel separations

Component: Wheels › Hub

Summary

On june 20, 2005, keystone rv notified odi of keystone's intention to conduct safety campaign 05v-309 to address 2,668 vehicles consisting of 1,677 my 2004 montana, 550 my 2004 everest, and 441 my 2005 everest vehicles equipped with aluminum wheels.this campaign proposes to remove the wheels, inspect the wheel ends for indications of prior loosening and/or other damage, remove paint and other contaminants from the wheel mounting interface, and educate the owner about the importance of checking the torque of the wheel mounting nuts as prescribed in keystone's owner's manual.on september 20, 2005 keystone distributed wheel end servicing information in dvd format to 114,618 owners of non-campaigned vehicles manufactured between may 1, 2003 and sept 1, 2005. Although keystone has indicated that they have improved the quality and consistency of the wheel nut installation and torquing, odi is concerned that the need for frequent retorque may be indicative that other currently-unaddressed factors may be involved.odi will close this investigation but continue to closely monitor the wheel separation issue at keystone rv.

An NHTSA investigation looks into whether a safety defect exists. Opening one is not a finding. Outcomes can include a recall, closure without action, or further inquiry.