2015 Proterra Catalyst problems

Verdict · NHTSA data

Limited data — recalls on file

NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 2015 Proterra Catalyst — 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 2015 compare to other Catalyst years?

Catalyst NHTSA complaints by model year, 2015 highlighted. Red bars are years to avoid.

See all Catalyst years to avoid →

Does the 2015 Proterra Catalyst have recalls?

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

22V114000SteeringFebruary 28, 2022 · 724 units

Defect

Proterra, Inc. (Proterra) is recalling certain 2017-2019 35 foot Catalyst E2, 2017-2019 40 foot E2, 2020-2021 35 foot RR, 2019-2020 40 foot RR, 2019-2022 40 foot ZX5, and 2020-2022 35 foot ZX5 buses. The plexus adhesive between the torque limiter plate and the bus body may be insufficient, causing the bolts that secure the steering gearbox to loosen.

Consequence

A loose steering gearbox can cause a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will install a mechanical fastener and new bolts on the steering gearbox, and install a new torque plate, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 7, 2022. Owners may contact Proterra's customer service at 1-864-438-0000.

19V283000BrakesApril 9, 2019 · 39 units

Defect

Proterra, Inc. (Proterra) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Catalyst 40 buses equipped with an optional tow fitting and airline that allows a tow truck to operate the rear brakes on the vehicle. The mesh cap covering the airline for the tow fitting can be clogged with road debris in inclement weather, possibly resulting in a build up of air pressure in the rear brake system.

Consequence

A build up of air pressure can cause the brakes to drag and possibly overheat, increasing the risk of fire.

Remedy

Proterra will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional shield to the tow fitting that protects the mesh cap, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2019. Owners may contact Proterra customer service at 1-864-438-0000.

19V062000Tires & WheelsJanuary 30, 2019 · 310 units

Defect

Proterra Inc., (Proterra) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Catalyst 40 and 35 transit buses. The affected vehicles are equipped with a four point height control system that may cause a load imbalance, overloading the front tires.

Consequence

An overloaded front tire may fail unexpectedly, increasing the risk of crash.

Remedy

Proterra will notify owners, and dealers will convert the current four point ride height system into a three point system to prevent the front tires from being overloaded, free of charge. The recall began March 26, 2019. Owners may contact Proterra customer service at 1-864-438-0000.

19V034000OtherJanuary 16, 2019 · 184 units

Defect

Proterra, Inc is recalling certain 2015-2018 Catalyst 40, and Catalyst 35 buses. The certification label may list an incorrect gross front axle weight rating and/or incorrect tire pressures. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of 49 CFR Part 567, "Certification."

Consequence

If the tire pressure is understated, an underinflated tire may result in an increased risk of tire failure, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Proterra will notify owners, and dealers will replace the certification labels with correct information for all affected customers, free of charge. The recall began March 12, 2019. Owners may contact Proterra customer service at 1-864-438-0000.

2015 Proterra Catalyst — common questions

Is the 2015 Proterra Catalyst 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 2015 Proterra Catalyst have recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 4 recall campaigns affecting the 2015 Proterra Catalyst. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers; check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm the work was done.

Which Proterra Catalyst years should you avoid?

Based on complaint rates and open investigations, the Catalyst years to avoid are 2019, 2017, 2018. The cleanest record among Catalyst years belongs to 2022.

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 2015 compare to other Catalyst years?

Does the 2015 Proterra Catalyst have recalls?

2015 Proterra Catalyst — common questions

Is the 2015 Proterra Catalyst reliable?

Does the 2015 Proterra Catalyst have recalls?

Which Proterra Catalyst years should you avoid?

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