School buses recalled for fire risk

NEW YORK (CNNMoney) -- School bus manufacturer Blue Bird Body Co. is recalling about 3,900 large school buses for a potential fire hazard.

A starter cable may rub against a power steering hose. That could create a short circuit resulting in a fire.

The buses involved are model year 2004 through 2006 Blue Bird Vision buses manufactured from June 26, 2003, through December 9, 2004.

The problem was first discovered in December when routine inspections by customers began uncovering abrasion on some cables, according to a letter sent by Blue Bird to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Blue Bird began its own investigation in January and found that about 5% of the buses had chafing on the starter cable.

The bus maker will alert owners to inspect the buses and make sure there is enough space between the starter cable and the hose. In cases where there isn't enough space, Blue Bird will install a clamp to keep them apart and any damaged cables or hoses will be replaced free of charge. Recall notifications are expected to begin around May, 10.

Blue Bird has had other recalls in the past year involving potential fire hazards, including one in involving a possible fuel leak and another involving a different potential short circuit.

A spokesperson for Blue Bird did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

In total, there are approximately 480,000 school buses on the road today, according to the American School Bus Council, an industry group.