Recall 17V483 affects 35 2017 Utility VS2RA trailers because a mud flap bracket can detach. Repair is free at any franchised Utility dealer.
Utility is recalling 35 2017 VS2RA trailers because the weld securing the mud flap bracket to the suspension beam can let the bracket detach. If the mud flap separates while the trailer is in use, it becomes a road hazard and increases the risk of a crash; Utility dealers will complete the repair free of charge.
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What's wrong?
The mud flap bracket on a 2017 Utility VS2RA trailer is the metal support that holds the mud flap in place near the rear axle area. The mud flap helps control road spray and debris thrown by the tires, and the bracket depends on a solid weld to stay attached to the suspension beam.
On affected trailers, the bracket weld was not completed correctly. Utility traced the problem to an inexperienced welder trying to make a vertical weld in a position that did not allow the weld to bite deeply enough into the metal. That leaves the bracket attached with a weak joint instead of a full-strength connection. During normal trailer movement and vibration, that joint can loosen until the mud flap bracket detaches.
There is no warning sign before failure. An owner or driver is most likely to see the problem during a walkaround inspection, when the mud flap bracket looks loose, crooked, cracked at the weld, or missing.
Who's affected?
| 2017 Utility VS2RA | rear suspension |
|---|---|
| Units affected | 35 |
| Field incidents | NHTSA has logged 1 field incident to date. |
Not every 2017 Utility VS2RA trailer is on the list. Check your VIN to confirm whether your specific trailer is included.
What's the safety risk?
During trailer use, a detached mud flap can fall into traffic and become a road hazard, increasing crash risk. Use extra caution while towing and schedule the dealer inspection promptly. The dealer checks the bracket weld for cracks and re-welds it when needed. Repair is free at any franchised Utility dealer.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2017 Utility VS2RA is included in this recall.
- Contact your nearest franchised Utility dealer to schedule the free weld inspection and bracket repair that keeps the mud flap bracket attached to the suspension beam.
- Bring the recall notice if Utility mailed one. If not, reference recall number 17V483 when you call.
- Inspect the trailer before use and stop towing if the mud flap bracket is loose or detached.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, a Utility technician inspects the weld that secures the mud flap bracket to the suspension beam. If cracks are found, the bracket is re-welded as needed. The inspection and repair are free under recall 17V483. If you already paid out of pocket for this bracket or weld repair before the recall notice, Utility's general reimbursement plan covers documented expenses. Bring repair invoices or receipts to the service desk, or contact Utility customer service for the claim process.
| Reimbursement | Reimbursement available |
|---|
Timeline
| July 28, 2017 | Owner notification mailed |
|---|---|
| August 1, 2017 | NHTSA published the recall |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 17V483?
Recall 17V483 covers 35 2017 Utility VS2RA trailers with a mud flap bracket weld that can crack and let the bracket detach from the suspension beam. A detached mud flap can become a road hazard and increase crash risk. Utility dealers inspect the weld and re-weld the bracket for free.
What should I do if my 2017 Utility VS2RA is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific trailer is included in recall 17V483. If it is, contact a Utility dealer to schedule the weld inspection. The dealer will inspect the mud flap bracket weld and re-weld the bracket if cracks are found. The repair is free.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires the manufacturer to fix the defect at no cost, and Utility's recall remedy provides the dealer inspection and bracket re-weld free of charge. Give the dealer recall number 17V483 when you schedule service.
What is the safety risk?
The safety risk is a detached mud flap becoming a road hazard during trailer use. That road hazard can increase crash risk for the tow vehicle or nearby traffic. If your VIN is included, arrange the free dealer inspection and bracket repair.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/17V483000 |
|---|---|
| Utility customer service | 1-818-965-1541 |
| NHTSA recall # | 17V483 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 17V483000 |
Source documents
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Download Misc. Document (PDF) - Download Recall Investigation Document (PDF) (PDF)
- Download Recall Report (PDF)
- Download Quarterly Report (PDF)
- Download Recall Acknowledgement (PDF)
This article is generated from NHTSA's primary recall filings and reviewed against the source on May 25, 2026. RecallNotify does not paraphrase NHTSA's consequence language; that text is reproduced as written above. Editorial standards →