Investigation PE12014: Vehicles

Status

CLOSED

Opened

Jun 14, 2012

Closed

Oct 11, 2012

Model years

—

Subject

Wheel-End Failures

Component: Wheels › Hub

Summary

On June 14, 2012 the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE12-014) to assess the risks associated with wheel-end failures causing wheel separation on certain Model Year (MY) 2011 Kaufman Flatbed Trailers.Following discussions with ODI concerning manufacturer records, consumer complaints, interviews, and the risk to the public resulting from a wheel separation event, Kaufman decided to submit recall notice 12V-410 on the subject trailers.This recall decision was made prior to submitting its response to ODI's information request letter, and ODI believes it has sufficient information to close its investigation.Therefore ODI relieved Kaufman of its requirement to submit a response.Kaufman's recall actions address the issues raised by this investigation and as a result this investigation is closed.

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.