Vehicle recall 13V480000 · October 17, 2013
Blue Bird Express 4000, Express 4500 and 2 more models
The specific potting compound used in the subject products for insulation was found to be capable of conducting electricity after being exposed to heat.
Source: NHTSA data as of September 22, 2026. Last refreshed Sep 23, 2026, 2:43 AM UTC.
- Summary
- Blue Bird Body Company (Blue Bird) is recalling certain model year 2004 Ultra LMB, 2003-2006 Ultra LF and 2004-2007 Express commercial buses equipped with Sure Power-brand battery equalizers containing a particular epoxy sealing, aka 'potting', compound. The specific potting compound used in the subject products for insulation was found to be capable of conducting electricity after being exposed to heat.
- Consequence
- Once electrically conductive, the material is capable of melting and burning, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy
- Blue Bird will notify owners, and dealers will replace the equalizers, free of charge. The recall began on December 17, 2013. Owners may contact Blue Bird at 1-478-825-2021. Blue Bird's recall number is R13WN.
- Notes
- 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 details
- NHTSA campaign
- 13V480000
- Reported to NHTSA
- October 17, 2013
- Filed by
- Blue Bird Body Company
- Manufacturer campaign
- R13WN
- Owner notification
- December 17, 2013
- Vehicles potentially affected
- 393
- Initiated by
- the manufacturer
- Components
- Electrical system
Vehicles covered
As listed by NHTSA. A recall usually covers only some vehicles of each model and year, often a production date range.
- Blue Bird Express 4000 (2004-2007): 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004
- Blue Bird Express 4500 (2004-2007): 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004
- Blue Bird Ultra LF (2003-2006): 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003
- Blue Bird Ultra LMB (2004): 2004
Has your Blue Bird been repaired?
Recalls here come from NHTSA’s records for the model and year. Not every vehicle of a model is included in every recall, and this site can’t see whether a repair has been done. Only a VIN lookup can tell you that.
NHTSA’s VIN search doesn’t show recalls that were already repaired, recalls more than 15 years old, or some small manufacturers’ recalls. A Blue Bird dealer can also check your VIN. Recall repairs are free.