1997 Fleetwood Bounder
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Fleetwood › Bounder › 1997
These records cover every 1997 Fleetwood Bounder. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
5 recalls name the 1997 Fleetwood Bounder. Newest first.
Certain motor homes and travel trailers equipped with a two-door refrigerator, manufactured by the dometic corporation, may have a defect in the boiler tube. pressurized coolant solution could be released into an area where an ignition source (gas flame) IS present.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Release of coolant under certain conditions could ignite and result in a fire.
Remedy
Fleetwood will be working with dometic in order to repair these refrigerators (please see 06e076). dometic will repair these refrigerators by installing a secondary burn housing, a thermal fuse, and a melt fuse free of charge. dometic has retained stericycle inc. To manage this campaign. stericycle will assist you in locating dealerships or service centers and will provide assistance with scheduling of appointments. owners may contact dometic/stericycle at 1-888-446-5157 or fleetwood at 1-800-322-8216.
Vehicle description: motor homes. the driver's and passenger's side windows do not meet the requirements of fmvss no. 205, "glazing materials," for an acceptable level of tint.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This condition could cause the driver reduced visibility through the side windows when backing up, when using the mirrors for lane changes, or whenever looking through the windows, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace these windows.
Vehicle description: class a motor homes. the hydraulic hoses which operate the leveling jack system IS routed too close to the engine exhaust manifold causing the hose to melt, releasing hydraulic fluid.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This hydraulic fluid can ignite in the engine compartment causing a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect, replace any damaged hoses, and relocate the affected hydraulic lines.
The e-z slide-out room can operate unexpectedly. water can cause an electrical short in the slide-out room control relay.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the slide-out room operates unexpectedly, the motor home width will increase which could lead to an accident if traveling or property damage could occur while the motor home IS parked.
Remedy
Dealers will install a replacement control relay in a waterproof location on these motor homes.
Miswiring of the low beam headlamp receptacle for the replaceable halogen lamp causes a noncompliance to fmvss no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment."
Risk and remedy
Risk
This condition causes reduced lighting levels with the low beam operation resulting in reduced visibility during dark driving conditions.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and modify the motor home wiring to provide correct circuit connections.
Owner complaints
29 complaints1 involved a crash
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Visibility/wiper
The side windows have lost the seal and are now beyond repair . Visibility IS impossible. Tried to find the windows and IS impossible to find.seems odd that this has been written up many times.owned this vehicle for ten years and this started after second year of ownership. *js
- Engine and engine cooling
Tl*the contact owns a 1997 fleetwood bounder. The contact referenced nhtsa recall campaign ID number: 97v178000, equipment:mechanical:jacks. The vehicle was purchased used in 2000 and the contact stated that the recall work was performed. While inspecting he found several cracked hoses and fluid…
Tl*the contact owns a 1997 fleetwood bounder. The contact referenced nhtsa recall campaign ID number: 97v178000, equipment:mechanical:jacks. The vehicle was purchased used in 2000 and the contact stated that the recall work was performed. While inspecting he found several cracked hoses and fluid leaking from the engine. He called the manufacturer and they would not assume liability for the repairs. The failure and current mileages were 18,500.
- Tires
In october 2004 I bought 4 big o lt235/85r16 tires for my motor home. in october 2005, after putting on about 16,000 miles, the tread came off of one of the tires while traveling about 60 mph. five months later, but only 1,000 miles more, the second tire lost it tread. one hundred miles later…
In october 2004 I bought 4 big o lt235/85r16 tires for my motor home. in october 2005, after putting on about 16,000 miles, the tread came off of one of the tires while traveling about 60 mph. five months later, but only 1,000 miles more, the second tire lost it tread. one hundred miles later the third tire lost its tread. in all three cases there was total separation of the tread from the carcass, just like the semi trucks losing the tread on a re-treaded tire. as a result of these incidents, considerable damage was done to the underside of the motor home, including rupture of a propane line, which could have resulted in a major fire. *Tr
- Visibility › Glass, side/rear
I own a 1997 fleetwood bounder. The drivers side window has became clouded at different times of the day and travel direction it IS almost impossible to see out into the rear view mirrors. There has been no accidents yet, and it IS extremely difficult to see out. *Tr
- Parking brake › Driveline › Hydraulic › Actuator
The parking brake on my 1997 bounder motor home that's built on a chevrolet P-30 chassis will fail without warning & allow the coach to roll. it has been rebuilt & works most of the time. it's that one time it won't work that worries me. I am using wheel chaulks whenever I park it. *tr. updated 01/11/08. *lj updated *jb
- Visibility › Glass, side/rear
Tl*the contact owns a 1997 fleetwood bounder. approximately three years ago,the contact began experienced visibility problems with the driver side window. he stated that the windows were dual, insulated pane, and the glass seals have failed, causing poor visibility while driving. the…
Tl*the contact owns a 1997 fleetwood bounder. approximately three years ago,the contact began experienced visibility problems with the driver side window. he stated that the windows were dual, insulated pane, and the glass seals have failed, causing poor visibility while driving. the contact's vehicle had the same failure with the passenger's side window. he stated that there was a growth between the panes that had a clear crystal look, and produced a foggy look on the window. the contact insisted that these windows should be of a better quality and not use dual panes that crack and cause poor visibility. the contact stated that a complaint was previously made for the same year, make, and model with odi # 10043211 (visibility:glass, side/rear). the current mileage IS 37,000 and failure mileage was 30,000.*ak
- Unknown or other
My complaint does not involve an accident but does involve a failure to act (by fleetwood motorhome co.) and rectify what I feel IS a major safety issue with my motorhome. I purchased my 1997 fleetwood bounder new in 1997 and have been trying to get fleetwood to recognize that the fire escape…
My complaint does not involve an accident but does involve a failure to act (by fleetwood motorhome co.) and rectify what I feel IS a major safety issue with my motorhome. I purchased my 1997 fleetwood bounder new in 1997 and have been trying to get fleetwood to recognize that the fire escape window in my motorhome IS sorely inadequate. They merely placed a decal that reads "fire exit" on a standard window and expect that to suffice. A normal fire escape window has two red handles that secure the window frame during normal operation and can also be turned to unlatch the window frame for egress in the event of a fire. I contacted fleetwood about this problem and they had me go to a local authorized fleetwood repair facility where a service manager took pictures of my window and sent them to fleetwood. Fleetwood responded to them , and they to me, that I have the correct configuration. Last week I went to a rv show where there were new and used bounders on sale. The new bounder had the correct fire escape window (red release handles). In another bounder (used) that was a year or so newer than mine there was no real fire escape window. It was un-equipped, just like mine. In the event of a fire, an older couple such as my wife and i, would have great difficulty exiting the vehicle. I fear that we would surely sustain severe burns at the very least. Since there were other motorhomes in my motorhome's era with the same problem, many people could be at risk. I would appreciate it if you could resolve this public danger. Thank you. *nm
- Steering › Column
When driving over bumps in the road the steering column became difficult to maneuver. . Please provide additional information. *jb
- Engine and engine cooling › Exhaust system
Problems with exhaust manifold and head gasket.*mr the vehicle exhaust manifold made noise while driving. several attempts at have the problem resolved has ailed. the consumer spoke with several other people who also have motorhomes with low mileage 460 ford engine's. the consumer contacted…
Problems with exhaust manifold and head gasket.*mr the vehicle exhaust manifold made noise while driving. several attempts at have the problem resolved has ailed. the consumer spoke with several other people who also have motorhomes with low mileage 460 ford engine's. the consumer contacted ford customer service who indicated that rust was the cause of the problem. the representative went on to say that he banks header system was the cure which would cost about $4000. the consumer had the header system installed and it seem to be working well. the consumer feels that the manufacturer knows of the faulty exhaust manifold but continues to manufacture them. *nm
- Engine and engine cooling › Exhaust system › Manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe
Consumer heard a disturbing noise coming from exhaust manifold system. dealership was notified, but did not resolve the problem. *Ak
- Power train › Automatic transmission
Bought bounder new in 1998. it IS a 1997 model. ford 460 motor. since we bought it, we had to have the transmission seals replaced at least three times, two new heads, one new manifold system and the radiator had problems. the leveling jack alarm wouldn't shut off. now, the transmission has…
Bought bounder new in 1998. it IS a 1997 model. ford 460 motor. since we bought it, we had to have the transmission seals replaced at least three times, two new heads, one new manifold system and the radiator had problems. the leveling jack alarm wouldn't shut off. now, the transmission has completely failed. we had an extended warranty, but the inspector says that there was another leak in the front tranny seal, and that was what caused the failure of the tranny and they won't cover the failure. the fluid drained when we got to our destination, but they are insisting that we drove it without the fluid. not so, and we have a witness. anyway, our request IS for ford to do something about this problem as we have fought with this seal problem since we bought the unit. it IS obviously a manufacture defect. help. *jb
- Power train › Manual transmission
Transmissioin failure. had to have the seals replaced almost from the day we bought the unit new. now the transmission has to be replaced. had two heads replaced and an entire manifold since we bought it. have been told by dealers that that year of motorhome engine had lots of problems. ended…
Transmissioin failure. had to have the seals replaced almost from the day we bought the unit new. now the transmission has to be replaced. had two heads replaced and an entire manifold since we bought it. have been told by dealers that that year of motorhome engine had lots of problems. ended up with a 350 dollar towing bill and out the use of the motorhome as we are "negotiating" with the extended warranty company to see if they will pay for the failure.*ak
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Foundation components › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings
Vehicle had a tendency to roll due to poor brake line design. the brake line was one half inch from manifold. the manifold melted the brake line, causing the brakes to seize. dealer was aware of the problem with the brake line.*ak
- Engine and engine cooling › Exhaust system · Equipment · Steering › Steering wheel/handle bar · Unknown or other · Visibility › Windshield wiper/washer
The vehicle had a state inspection performed from another state before the consumer took ownership. the consumer felt that some things were overlooked at the time of inspection. *la the consumer was informed the vehicle had many problems, such as defective speedometer, poor windshield…
The vehicle had a state inspection performed from another state before the consumer took ownership. the consumer felt that some things were overlooked at the time of inspection. *la the consumer was informed the vehicle had many problems, such as defective speedometer, poor windshield wiper blades, which failed to clean the windshield, an exhaust leak which was leaking at the exhaust header, a defective rear roof ladder, and a improperly misaligned steering wheel. The consumer no longer owns the recreational vehicle. *jb
- Parking brake
After putting vehicle in park it will roll. Contacted dealer. Dealer replaced shoe around driveshaft, but problem IS still occurring. *Ak consumer stated when gear shift goes into park, auto park does not engage, vehicle would not hold, the dealer found the park brake shoes glazed and out of adjustment, the park brake cable was replaced.*jb
- Suspension › Rear › Springs › Leaf spring assembly › Leaf
Right rear axle leaf spring has a broken. dealer noticed broken leaf spring during inspection. Please add further comments. *ak
- Structure › Frame and members · Suspension
The wheelbase length leaves too much overhang pass the drive wheels. nlm
- Parking brake › Conventional › Mechanical
When foot IS on "t"-handle to release emergency brake, would pull by hand, it would jump out & could break fingers. Location IS too close to foot pedal. chevrolet truck chassis for a bounder (motorhome). *ak
- Suspension › Front
Serious shimmy in chassis at 40/45 mph. Feel motorhome could lose control and cause accident. dealer and manufacture of chassis and motorhome no responsive to this since purchased. accident waiting to happen. Need it report to them. I am not the only one as others have tried to get fixed according to dealer. I reported this previously to nhtsa. *ak
- Suspension › Front
Shimming was present from date of purchase. dealer could not fix nor can chevy fix. Serviced by two local chevy dealers. Earnhardts first tried by gave up. Afraid shimmy will cause motorhome to go out of control,loose a tire or cause steering problems that many cause an accident. Numerous things…
Shimming was present from date of purchase. dealer could not fix nor can chevy fix. Serviced by two local chevy dealers. Earnhardts first tried by gave up. Afraid shimmy will cause motorhome to go out of control,loose a tire or cause steering problems that many cause an accident. Numerous things have been done to correct but all attempts have failed to date. only happens between 40/45 mph. very common speed for city driving. help. *ak
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Foundation components › Disc › Caliper · Service brakes, hydraulic › Foundation components › Drum
When applying the brakes under any circumstances, brakes stick and won't release. The problem was reported to the ford manufacturer. rear brakes and calipers were repaired at owner's expense. Please provide any furhter information. *ak
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Power assist
Leveling jack hydraulic fluid reservoir IS mounted directly in front of the front tire, and has no protection from the elements thrown from the tire which causes corrosion on the hydraulic lines. manufacturer has been notified. *ak
- Suspension › Front › Stabilizer bar
I have a 1996 fleetwood bounder motorhome model 32H on a ford f-super duty motorhome chassis with a 460 cid engine. with 12,200 miles on the odometer I was driving on an interstate highway when I came to to the transition between the highway and the bridge, there was a level change between the…
I have a 1996 fleetwood bounder motorhome model 32H on a ford f-super duty motorhome chassis with a 460 cid engine. with 12,200 miles on the odometer I was driving on an interstate highway when I came to to the transition between the highway and the bridge, there was a level change between the bridge and the highway. I felt a small jar and immediately the front end went into a violent back and forth vibration with lots of amplitude. I thought the motorhome was going to leave the frame. the back and forth motion did not stop until I came to a complete stop. about 10-20 miles further, the same conditions resulted in the same violent reaction. the motorhome now has 15,200 mile on it and I haven't had the problem, however I am aware the problem exists and am very cautious when I approach a bridge. however, I am certain it will happen again if a chuckhole IS encountered. I live in fear that I will lose control of the vehicle and will cause a terrible accident. it was all I could do to hold onto the steering wheel. if my wife was driving it's doubtful she could have handled it. I talked with a ford representative in arizona, phone 1-800-444-3311 ext 261 and he told me to have the whole front end inspected and to have the steering stabilizer replaced. this problem occured at 12,200 miles. what could wear at 12,200 miles to cause such a major problem? does this mean I should have the steering stabilizer replaced every 10,000 miles? other motorhome owners with ford chassis have had the exact experience. to listen to their stories IS scarry as it's usually so identical to what happened to me. I feel what the ford representative told me IS a smokescreen. there IS an after-market product called a davis trutrac bar that keeps the axle from swinging back and forth,thus eliminating the problem. it costs $332.10. Ford should pay for its installation or come up with a fix of their own. it IS a design flaw and should be corrected. *ak
- Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Fuel pump · Power train › Automatic transmission · Suspension
Transmission problems.
- Parking brake › Conventional
While driving at low speeds the automatic parking brake engages, causing the vehicle to completely stop. Please give any further details. *ak
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10025322Fleetwood service campaign: see document search button for owner letter. Consumer maintenance advisory, generator fuel lines. Fleetwood motor home owners. Csc was received.
- 600253Subject on domestic ice maker installation and operation.
Every Fleetwood Bounder model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.