Equipment recall 81E013000 · September 1, 1981
American Motors American Motors
Due to a defect in the wiring system, dealer-installed air conditioning kits may cause the engine to continue running when the ignition key is turned to the "off" position and…
Source: NHTSA data as of September 22, 2026. Last refreshed Sep 23, 2026, 2:43 AM UTC.
This is a recall of aftermarket equipment listed for the vehicles below. It applies only if the recalled part was installed on the vehicle.
- Summary
- Due to a defect in the wiring system, dealer-installed air conditioning kits may cause the engine to continue running when the ignition key is turned to the "off" position and the air conditioner is in operation.
- Remedy
- Upon inspection, the air conditioning wiring system will be modified and a circuit breaker will be installed.
- Notes
- Vehicle category: passenger vehicles.system: equipment; air conditioning wiring.consequences of defect: if the engine does not shut off, the vehicle could moveunexpectedly and an accident could result.note: manufacturer advises that the air conditioner should not be used untilthe defect is corrected.
Recall details
- NHTSA campaign
- 81E013000
- Reported to NHTSA
- September 1, 1981
- Filed by
- AMERICAN
- Owner notification
- September 1, 1981
- Vehicles potentially affected
- 366
- Initiated by
- the manufacturer
- Components
- Equipment › Appliance › Air conditioner
Vehicles covered
As listed by NHTSA. A recall usually covers only some vehicles of each model and year, often a production date range.
- American Motors American Motors (model year not listed)
Has your American Motors 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 American Motors dealer can also check your VIN. Recall repairs are free.