2005 Braun Entervan problems

Filed Apr 11, 2014 · Body, Wheels · 61,000 miles · CA

I experienced a flat tire on the right front tire. I looked at the braun consumer operators manual (ver30117 dated march 2004 which came with the handicap conversion which came with the vehicle) to determine how to change the tire. The instruction manual states "jacking and tire changing procedures have not been affected by the conversion". Detailed tire changing instructions are provided in the chrysler supplied owners manual" I referenced the chrysler owners manual which came with the vehicle to determine the jacking and tire changing procedure. The conversion however prevents access to the factory installed jacking points as there are skirts on each side of the vehicle. With the tire deflated it is impossible to place the jack under the vehicle on the jacking points. I called the braun customer service number provided in the manual where I was informed that the vehicle could not be jacked using the supplied jack. I was stuck with my disabled in his power wheel chair and needed to be toileted. I did not have time to wait for a tow truck. The customer service agent then spoke with the engineering department who suggested that to gain clearance to the jacking point with the supplied jack that I drive the flat tire up onto a rock. I drove up onto a curb and when I jacked the van up using the then accessible jacking point the jack collapsed. I wrote an email to the ceo of braun asking for resolution and received no response. Based on the conversation I had with the customer service agent I am convinced that this is a known issue at braun. This issue needs to be made public for all of the owners of these handicap vans. It should be the responsibility of the manufacturer and its dealers of these vehicles to insure that tire changes can be done by its users. Braun should be liable for suggesting life threatening work arounds to this known engineering issue.