Defect. Prevost Car (US) Inc. (Prevost) is recalling certain 2018-2023 H3-45 motor coaches and H3-45 VIP motorhomes, and 2019 H3-41 motor coaches. The Automatic Fire Suppression System (AFSS) optical fire sensor positioned in the engine compartment's lower region may corrode and malfunction. In this event, the AFSS may give a false warning to the driver, command an unwarranted engine shutdown, and release a chemical fire extinguishing agent in the engine compartment.
Risk. The activation of the Automatic Fire Suppression System can cause a sudden loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, a disabled coach may require an evacuation procedure in an uncontrolled traffic situation, increasing the risk of injury to passengers.
Remedy. Prevost will inspect the vehicles, install spacers between the optical fire sensor and bracket, and replace the optical fire sensor, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 8, 2023. Owners may contact Prevost customer service at 1-866-870-2046. Prevost's number for this recall is SR23-05.