Recall 12V291 affects 14 2010-2012 Vermeer R9X12T trailers for slack-adjuster clearance that reduces braking. Repair is free at any franchised Vermeer dealer.
Vermeer is recalling 14 2010-2012 R9X12T trailers because inadequate clearance between the slack adjuster arm and trailer frame lets the axle contact and bend the arm. A bent slack adjuster arm can reduce braking capacity, which lengthens stopping distance and raises crash risk; the Vermeer dealer repair will be free once available.
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What's wrong?
On 2010-2012 Vermeer R9X12T trailers, the slack adjuster arm is part of the brake linkage. It helps keep the brake mechanism in the correct position so braking force reaches the wheel end when the trailer brakes are applied. The trailer frame around the axle has to leave enough clearance for that arm to move without contact.
On affected trailers, that clearance is not adequate. The axle can contact the slack adjuster arm and bend it. A bent arm changes the brake linkage position, so the brake at that wheel end does not apply with full force. Over time, one or more brakes can lose braking capacity because the arm no longer works in its proper range.
There is no warning sign before failure. If the trailer does not stop as expected or braking feels uneven, stop using it and have a Vermeer dealer inspect the brake linkage.
Who's affected?
Spans the 2010, 2011, and 2012 R9X12T, with the same body or structural component listed for each model year.
| 2012 Vermeer R9X12T | body or structural component |
|---|---|
| 2010 Vermeer R9X12T | body or structural component |
| 2011 Vermeer R9X12T | body or structural component |
| Units affected | 14 |
A matching year and model does not confirm inclusion. Check your VIN to confirm whether your specific vehicle is included.
What's the safety risk?
Reduced braking capacity increases stopping distance and raises crash risk. If your 2010-2012 R9X12T is included, schedule the recall repair soon and leave extra room when moving the equipment until the axle is replaced. Repair will be free at any franchised Vermeer dealer once available.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2010-2012 Vermeer R9X12T trailer is included in this recall.
- Call Vermeer customer service at 1-641-628-3141 for repair timing and dealer instructions.
- Reference recall number 12V291 when you call or schedule service.
- Schedule the free axle replacement that restores clearance between the trailer frame and brake slack adjuster arm.
- Drive cautiously until the repair is complete. Leave extra stopping distance and avoid towing loads that strain the trailer brakes.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, a Vermeer technician replaces the trailer axle. The repair addresses the inadequate clearance between the slack adjuster arm and the trailer frame, which lets the axle contact and bend the arm. That bent arm can reduce braking capacity on one or more brakes. Vermeer began this safety recall on August 6, 2012, and the axle replacement is free of charge under recall 12V291.
Timeline
| June 22, 2012 | NHTSA published the recall |
|---|---|
| August 6, 2012 | Owner notification mailed |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 12V291?
Recall 12V291 covers 14 2010-2012 Vermeer R9X12T trailers with inadequate clearance between the slack adjuster arm and the trailer frame. The axle can contact and bend the arm, reducing brake capacity. Vermeer will replace the axle for free.
What should I do if my 2010-2012 Vermeer R9X12T is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific trailer is included in recall 12V291. If it is, contact a Vermeer dealer or Vermeer at 1-641-628-3141 to arrange the free axle replacement. Reference recall 12V291 when you call.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires the manufacturer to repair the defect at no cost. For recall 12V291, Vermeer will replace the axle free of charge through its repair process.
What is the safety risk?
The risk is reduced braking capacity. If the axle bends the slack adjuster arm, one or more brakes can lose braking capacity over time, increasing stopping distance and crash risk. Confirm your VIN, then arrange the free axle replacement if your trailer is included.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/12V291000 |
|---|---|
| Vermeer customer service | 1-641-628-3141 |
| NHTSA recall # | 12V291 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 12V291000 |
Source documents
-
Download Recall Document (PDF) (PDF) - Download Recall Investigation Document (PDF) (PDF)
- Download Recall Document (PDF) (PDF)
- Download Recall Document (PDF) (PDF)
- Download Owner Notification Letter (PDF)
- Download Owner Notice (PDF)
- Download Defect / Noncompliance Notice (PDF) (PDF)
- Download Recall Acknowledgement (PDF)
This article is generated from NHTSA's primary recall filings and reviewed against the source on June 2, 2026. RecallNotify does not paraphrase NHTSA's consequence language; that text is reproduced as written above. Editorial standards →