Vehicle recall 19V487000 · June 21, 2019

2018-2019 Charles Machine Ditch Witch

The brake wire terminals may have been improperly crimped, which can result in the trailer brakes failing to apply when commanded.

Source: NHTSA data as of September 22, 2026. Last refreshed Sep 23, 2026, 2:43 AM UTC.

Summary: Charles Machine Works Inc. (Charles Machine) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Ditch Witch VT9, VT12, VT14, VT17, VT20 and VT24 trailers. The brake wire terminals may have been improperly crimped, which can result in the trailer brakes failing to apply when commanded.
Consequence: If the trailer brakes do not apply as expected, the distance required to stop the trailer may be lengthened, increasing the risk of crash.
Remedy: Charles Machine has notified owners, and dealers will replace the brake terminals with a machine terminal, free of charge. The recall began June 25, 2019. Owners may contact Charles Machine customer service at 1-800-654-6481.
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: 19V487000
Reported to NHTSA: June 21, 2019
Filed by: Charles Machine Works Inc
Owner notification: June 25, 2019
Vehicles potentially affected: 796
Initiated by: the manufacturer
Components: Service brakes, electric

Recall 19V487000 on nhtsa.gov, with the manufacturer’s documents

Vehicles covered

As listed by NHTSA. A recall usually covers only some vehicles of each model and year, often a production date range.

Charles Machine Ditch Witch (2018-2019): 2019, 2018

Has your Charles Machine 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.

Check your VIN with NHTSA

NHTSA’s VIN search doesn’t show recalls that were already repaired, recalls more than 15 years old, or some small manufacturers’ recalls. A Charles Machine dealer can also check your VIN. Recall repairs are free.