The 2009 Ford E-450 has 6 recalls, all involving aftermarket equipment fitted to certain vehicles, with the most serious concerns centered on wheelchair lift failures that can tip, drop, or allow a wheelchair occupant to roll off the platform.
Four of the recalls involve wheelchair lifts installed by various specialty vehicle converters. Depending on the lift model and installer, the platform's side plates can crack and cause the platform to separate and fall against the lift door, a software fault can cause the lift to overshoot floor level and tilt 15 to 20 degrees, potentially tipping a wheelchair or knocking a standing passenger off, roll stop latches on the outer barrier can bend or misalign and allow a wheelchair to roll over them, and a restraint belt interlock can fail to prevent the lift from moving before the belt is properly buckled. These issues affect vehicles equipped with Braun or Ricon lift systems installed by Creative Bus Sales, Elkhart Coach, or Farber Specialty Vehicles. There is also a separate concern on certain ambulance conversions by VCI: the backup camera monitor can display a misleading image, causing the driver to steer the wrong way while reversing.
At a glance
What can fail
The backup camera monitor may unexpectedly reset to factory settings, causing the camera image to display in reverse.
What the fix does
ASA Electronics will repair or replace the display monitor at no charge. Contact ASA Electronics at 1-800-384-4400.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
We may earn a commission for purchases made through these links.
At a glance
What can fail
The platform side plate on certain Ricon wheelchair lifts installed in Farber specialty vehicles may develop cracks.
What the fix does
Ricon dealers will install support bumpers to reinforce the platform. Cracked platforms will be replaced at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The platform side plate on certain wheelchair lifts may crack, potentially compromising lift stability and safety.
What the fix does
Ricon dealers will install supplemental support bumpers. Cracked platforms will be replaced at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The roll stop latches on the wheelchair lift outer barrier may bend or misalign over time or with frequent use, potentially affecting lift operation.
What the fix does
Dealers will repair the roll stop latches at no charge. Braun will contact owners with appointment details.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The wheelchair lift's up function software has a timing issue. If you release the up switch before the lift reaches floor level, it may continue rising for about 1 second and overshoot the stopping point.
What the fix does
Ricon is developing a software fix. Until available, you'll receive an operation bulletin and training DVD. Once ready, authorized Ricon dealers will install the software update at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The restraint belt on the public lift can be inserted into the buckle without fully latching. This allows the lift to operate even though the belt appears secured, risking movement with a passenger on the platform.
What the fix does
Ricon will provide a warning decal and training DVD to ensure operators fully engage and latch the restraint belt before operating the lift.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
