Lemon Law for California

Build Dates : September 03, 2002 - July 06, 2007

NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 07V548000

Date Owner’s Notified: 20071117
Date Received by ODI: 20071203
Date Added to Databse: 20071203

Manufacturer’s Involved: COTTRELL, INC.
Manufacturer’s Responsible for the Recall: COTTRELL, INC.
Manufacturer Campaign Number:

Component: STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 68

Summary: 

On certain car haul trailers that are equipped with roofs that raise and lower, the roofs are attached to a raising/lowering mechanism by round tubes that are welded to the roof. There are 4 tubes welded to each roof and 2 roofs per each complete piece of equipment. The base material around the welded connection may experience a fatigue failure during high mileage operation.

Consequence: 

Should failure occur on all four lift points, the roof might separate from the trailer increasing the risk of a crash to following vehicles.

Remedy: 

Cottrell or a repair facility authorized by cotrell will add an additional weld pass around the roof lift tube, install an inner and outer gusset tying the roof into the roof lift tube free of charge. The Cottrell recall began prior to November 21, 2007. All owners have been contacted.

Sometimes a manufacturer makes a design or production mistake on a motor vehicle. If dealers report a number of complaints about a certain part or vehicle, the manufacturer may allow dealers to repair the problem at no cost to you even if the warranty has expired. A service bulletin notifies the dealer of the problem and how to resolve it. Because these free repairs are not publicized, they are called “secret warranties.” The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (www.nhtsa.dot.gov) maintains a database of service bulletins filed by manufacturers.

Used cars are sold through a variety of outlets: franchise and independent dealers, rental car companies, leasing companies, and used car superstores. You can even buy a used car on the Internet. Ask friends, relatives and co-workers for recommendations. You may want to call your local consumer protection agency, state Attorney General (AG), and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to find out if any unresolved complaints are on file about a particular dealer.

Some dealers are attracting customers with “no-haggle prices,” “factory certified” used cars, and better warranties. Consider the dealer’s reputation when you evaluate these ads.

Dealers are not required by law to give used car buyers a three-day right to cancel. The right to return the car in a few days for a refund exists only if the dealer grants this privilege to buyers. Dealers may describe the right to cancel as a “cooling-off” period, a money-back guarantee, or a “no questions asked” return policy. Before you purchase from a dealer, ask about the dealer’s return policy, get it in writing and read it carefully.