Airstream Inc. has announced a recall of certain model year 2008-2012 Airstream Interstate Touring Coaches built between September 18th, 2008 and June 24th, 2011. 281 RVs in total are being recalled.
The recall was announced because the driver’s side seatbelt buckle wire could become damaged or cut when adjusting the posture of the seat. The wire is of significant importance because it allows electrical signals to communicate between the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) and the Vehicle Control Module (VCM). The two systems work together to sense and signal whether or not the driver’s seat is occupied and if the belt is buckled or not.
If the belt buckle wire is damaged or severed completely, the belt tensioner will not work properly, leaving the driver unsecured, not allowing the SRS to work correctly. In a crash, this could lead to serious injury or death!
Airstream Inc. has sent out notification letters to anyone who has purchased the affected vehicles from a dealership. They are also instructing dealers to fix the problem for free.