Structural composites/fmvss 304/nvg fuel tanks
Defect Summary
Certain compressed natural gas fuel containers, model alt823d, p/n 1273147, equipped on certain 2003 and 2004 orion vii buses. the nvg container's pressure relief devices fail to timely and fully activate as required by federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 304, compressed natural gas fuel container integrity.
Safety Consequence
In the event of a vehicle fire with the fuel system roof enclosure removed or opened, the fuel container's pressure relief devices may not activate as they are designed to do and the fuel container could rupture and explode. such an explosion, if it were to occur, could cause serious injuries or death to occupants of the bus or to persons outside the bus.
Corrective Action
Structural composites will replace the pressure relief valve free of charge. structural composites is expected to notify the owners of affected orion vii buses in june 2004. the recall began february 2005.
Similar Recalls
Other recalls from Structural Composites Industries or involving Fuel System, Other.
FAQ: Recall 04E038000
Your rights, the repair process, and what each field on this page means.
What is recall 04E038000?
NHTSA recall 04E038000 was issued by Structural Composites Industries on May 20, 2004. It addresses: Structural composites/fmvss 304/nvg fuel tanks. The recall affects approximately 2,030 vehicles, with the defect involving the Fuel System, Other component.
How do I get this recall repaired?
Contact any authorized Structural Composites Industries dealer and reference NHTSA recall ID 04E038000 or the manufacturer campaign number NR (Not Reported). Under federal law, the repair is completely free regardless of vehicle age or owner history.
Is my vehicle included in this recall?
The only way to confirm is to look up your 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. NHTSA's tool will tell you if VIN-by-VIN this exact recall applies.
How long do I have to get a recall repair done?
There is no expiration on most federal safety recalls. Even if your vehicle is years old and you bought it used, the manufacturer is required to perform the repair at no cost.
Where does the data on this page come from?
All information on this page is sourced directly from the U.S. Department of Transportation public dataset for NHTSA recalls. Last refreshed: 2026-05-22. For the most current official notice, visit nhtsa.gov/recalls.