Curbtender Recalls 2018 Ford Trucks With Curbtenders And Whelen Brake Lights

Laguna Hills, CA – May 8, 2019 – Curbtender, Inc. is recalling certain 2018 Ford F-650 and QT06 vehicles equipped with Curbtenders that include Whelen brake lights. Due to a possible wiring problem, these lights may incorrectly illuminate when the brake pedal has not been pressed. If this happens, it can confuse other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash. As many as six vehicles may be affected.  

The Defect

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration report on the issue, the affected Ford F-650 and QT06 vehicles featuring Curbtenders and Whelen brake lights could have a wiring defect. The brake lights may unexpectedly illuminate when the brake has not been depressed, depending on the specific wiring of the vehicle. This would give an indication that the vehicle was stopping, when it actually wasn’t. Were this to happen, the faulty brake lights could confuse other drivers, potentially leading to a crash. 

Background of Issue

This action is similar to another current recall by Excellance, Inc. involving 2018 ambulances and emergency vehicles built on Ford E-350, E-450, F-650, F-550 4×4, Chevrolet G4500, G4500 Diesel, C3500, G3500, Freightliner M2, International 4300 and Dodge 4500 chassis and equipped with Whelen brake lights. As with this Curbtender recall, the brake lights may illuminate when the pedal hasn’t been pressed; if the brake lights improperly illuminate, it can increase the risk of a crash. Because of this issue, the affected vehicles would fail to comply with federal regulations covering lamps, reflective devices and associated equipment.

The Solution

There is no notification schedule yet for the start of the recall. The remedy is still under development by the manufacturer.

Owners may contact Curbtender customer service at 1-319-266-1721. Owners may also contact the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov. The NHTSA Campaign Number for this recall is 19V237000.

Sean ReyesCurbtender Recalls 2018 Ford Trucks With Curbtenders And Whelen Brake Lights