2017 Kme Predator problems

Verdict · NHTSA data

Limited data — recalls on file

NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 2017 Kme Predator — too few to judge reliability from owner reports alone — but 4 recall campaigns apply to this year, so any used example should have its VIN checked for completed recall work.

NHTSA complaints

Recalls

Investigations

Crash-involved

Fires reported

Injuries

Deaths

—

NCAP overall

How does 2017 compare to other Predator years?

Predator NHTSA complaints by model year, 2017 highlighted. Red bars are years to avoid.

See all Predator years to avoid →

Does the 2017 Kme Predator have recalls?

4 NHTSA recall campaigns on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.

21V097000SuspensionFebruary 19, 2021 · 88 units

Defect

Kovatch Mobile Equipment Corp. (KME) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Predator SS Rescue, 2017 Predator Emergency Tractor, 2014-2020 Predator Panther Pumper, 2013-2017 Predator Pumper, 2014 Predator Rescue, and 2013-2020 Predator SS Pumper vehicles. The welds that attach the suspension mounts and torque rod mounts to the rear axle may have been insufficiently welded, possibly causing the welds to break.

Consequence

Broken welds may cause the mounts to separate from the axle, resulting in loss of control of the vehicle, and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

KME will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the welds, and repair any defects found, free of charge. The recall began April 9, 2021. Owners may contact KME customer service at 1-800-235-3928.

20V341000BrakesJune 10, 2020 · 107 units

Defect

Kovatch Mobile Equipment Corp. (KME) is recalling certain 2011 and 2013-2020 Predator Severe Service, 2015 Predator Panther, 2011, 2013-2014 and 2017-2018 Predator, and 2014 KME commercial cab/chassis firetrucks equipped with optional Telma induction braking systems. The Telma axial retarder braking mechanism may separate from the vehicle while it is moving.

Consequence

A retarder that separates from the vehicle may increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

KME will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the mounting hardware on axial retarders and replace any incorrect hardware, free of charge. This recall is expected to begin July 2020. Owners may contact KME customer service at 1-800-678-1910.

20V192000Electrical SystemApril 2, 2020 · 678 units

Defect

Kovatch Mobile Equipment Corp. (KME) is recalling certain 2016-2020 Predator Custom, Predator Panther, Predator Severe Service, and 2016-2019 Commercial Cab/Chassis vehicles. An electrical short circuit can occur due to a build-up of corrosion between the positive battery jumper stud and the retaining ring for the stud.

Consequence

An electrical short circuit may drain the battery, preventing the emergency vehicle from being able to operate, thereby increasing the risk of injury in the event of an emergency.

Remedy

KME will notify owners, and dealers will clean the jumper studs, connection surfaces, and connections. Additionally, the connection surfaces and wire terminals will then be sealed with a silicone electrical sealant. All services will be performed free of charge. The recall began May 18, 2020. Owners may contact KME customer service at 1-800-235-3928.

18V433000OtherJune 26, 2018 · 13 units

Defect

Kovatch Mobile Equipment Corp. (KME) is recalling certain 2017 KME Predator TDA, 2016-2018 KME Predator SS TDA, and 2018 KME Predator SS Aerial emergency vehicles equipped with an aerial ladder and optional tip mounted lifting device. The lifting devices do not meet the specified load rating or safety factor.

Consequence

Using the device to lift the rated load may cause the device to deform, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy

KME has notified owners, and dealers will replace the tip lifting device, free of charge. The recall began July 26, 2018. Owners may contact KME customer service at 1-800-235-3928.

2017 Kme Predator — common questions

Is the 2017 Kme Predator reliable?

The record is thin — 0 NHTSA complaints — so owner-report data can't strongly confirm reliability either way, though 4 recalls should be verified as completed.

Does the 2017 Kme Predator have recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 4 recall campaigns affecting the 2017 Kme Predator. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers; check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm the work was done.

Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.

Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.

How does 2017 compare to other Predator years?

Does the 2017 Kme Predator have recalls?

2017 Kme Predator — common questions

Is the 2017 Kme Predator reliable?

Does the 2017 Kme Predator have recalls?

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