Recall 18V258 affects 12 2017-2018 Blue Bird Vision buses because throttle input is not blocked. Software update is free at any franchised Blue Bird dealer.
Blue Bird is recalling 12 2017-2018 Vision transit buses with Gen4 Ford engines and the optional brake and throttle interlock because the system applies the service brakes but does not block throttle input. That leaves the bus able to overpower the applied brake and move unexpectedly, increasing crash or injury risk; Blue Bird dealers will complete the free repair.
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What's wrong?
The brake and throttle interlock on 2017-2018 Blue Bird Vision buses is a control system tied to the service brakes, accelerator pedal, instrument cluster, and Smart Relay Module. When the interlock is activated, it is supposed to apply the service brakes and block accelerator pedal input so the bus does not respond to throttle commands.
On affected buses, the Smart Relay Module software reads data-link information from multiple places instead of relying on the instrument cluster alone. Because of timing conflicts in that software logic, the module can miss the request that tells it to turn on the accelerator interlock. The service brake side of the function is still commanded, but throttle input is not blocked as intended.
There is no warning sign before failure. A driver using the interlock will not get a separate alert that the accelerator input is still active, so the problem is found through testing or dealer software diagnosis.
Who's affected?
| 2017 Blue Bird Vision | Accelerator pedal |
|---|---|
| 2018 Blue Bird Vision | Accelerator pedal |
| Units affected | 12 |
| Field incidents | NHTSA has logged no field incidents to date. |
Not every 2017-2018 Blue Bird Vision bus is on the list. Check your VIN to confirm whether your specific bus is included.
What's the safety risk?
When throttle input remains active while the brake is applied, the bus can overpower the brake and move unexpectedly, increasing crash or injury risk. There is no warning to the driver, so schedule the software update soon and keep extra space when maneuvering. Repair is free at any franchised Blue Bird dealer.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2017-2018 Blue Bird Vision is included in this recall.
- Contact your nearest franchised Blue Bird dealer to schedule the free Smart Relay Module software update that blocks throttle input when the brake and throttle interlock is active.
- Bring the recall notice if you have it. Reference recall number 18V258 when you call.
- Keep the bus out of brake-and-throttle-interlock service until the software update is complete.
- Call Blue Bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242 with scheduling questions.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, a Blue Bird technician updates the Smart Relay Module software so the brake and throttle interlock works as intended. The recall repair is available, and parts and labor are free. If you already paid out of pocket for a related Smart Relay Module software repair before the recall notice, Blue Bird's reimbursement plan covers documented expenses. Ask Blue Bird customer service or the dealer service desk how to submit the paperwork for review.
| Reimbursement | Reimbursement available |
|---|
Timeline
| April 24, 2018 | NHTSA published the recall |
|---|---|
| May 18, 2018 | Dealer notification began |
| May 18, 2018 | Dealer notification ended |
| May 18, 2018 | VIN-searchable in NHTSA's database — Check your VIN to see whether this recall applies to your specific vehicle. |
| May 18, 2018 | Interim owner notification (was planned for this date) |
| May 24, 2018 | Owner notification mailed |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 18V258?
Recall 18V258 covers 12 2017-2018 Blue Bird Vision transit buses with Gen4 Ford engines and an optional brake and throttle interlock. The defect leaves throttle input active when the interlock is engaged, so Blue Bird dealers update the Smart Relay Module software for free.
What should I do if my 2017-2018 Blue Bird Vision is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific bus is included in recall 18V258. If it is, contact a franchised Blue Bird dealer to schedule the Smart Relay Module software update. Reference recall 18V258 when you call. The repair is free.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires manufacturers to repair the defect at no cost, and Blue Bird dealers update the Smart Relay Module software free of charge. Blue Bird listed customer service at 1-478-822-2242 for this recall.
What is the safety risk?
The safety risk is unexpected bus movement. If throttle input is still active while the brake and throttle interlock applies the service brakes, the bus can move when it is expected to stay stopped, increasing the risk of a crash or an injury.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/18V258000 |
|---|---|
| Blue Bird customer service | 1-478-822-2242 |
| NHTSA recall # | 18V258 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 18V258000 |
Source documents
-
Download Recall Document (PDF) (PDF) - Download Owner Notification Letter (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 →