The 2008 Freightliner Cascadia has 22 safety recalls and 8 owner complaints on file with NHTSA. The most-reported problem area is steering (7 complaints).
Problem: Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2006-2020 Freightliner Columbia, 2006-2021 Freightliner Business Class M2, 2007-2020 Freightliner Coronado, 2014-2021 Freightliner 122 SD, 2007 Sterling A 9500, 2006 Freightliner Argosy, 2006-2007 Sterling AT9500, 2008-2021 Freightliner Cascadia, 2006-2008 Freightliner Classic, 2006-2011 Freightliner Century Class, 2006-2010 Freightliner FLD, and 2017 Western Star 5700 vehicles. The rear reflective tape may be partially covered by the mudflap hanger bracket, which may reduce the vehicle's visibility to other drivers on the road. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Risk: The vehicle's rearward visibility may be reduced, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and reposition the reflective tape to ensure that it is completely visible, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 29, 2020. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL848.
Equipment
NHTSA recall 17V810000 · Dec 15, 2017 · 24,860 vehicles
Problem: Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2002-2017 Freightliner Cascadia, Century Class, Columbia and Coronado trucks and Western Star 4700, 4900, 5700, 5900 and 6900 trucks. These vehicles are equipped with Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers that may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or excessive force may be needed to activate the extinguisher. Additionally, in certain models, the nozzle may detach from the valve assembly with enough force that it could cause injury and also render the product inoperable. For a full list of the affected fire extinguisher models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17E062-5427.pdf
Risk: In the event of a fire, if the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury.
Fix: DTNA will notify owners, and instruct them to contact Kidde for a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. The recall began on April 11, 2018. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712, or contact Kidde customer service toll-free at 1-855-262-3540, or online at www.kidde.com and click on "Product Safety Recall" for more information. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-759.
Exterior lighting › Brake lights › Switch
NHTSA recall 17V761000 · Nov 27, 2017 · 438,255 vehicles
Problem: Daimler Trucks North America, LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2008-2018 Freightliner Cascadia, Western Star 4700, 4900, 5700, and 6900 trucks. After hard brake applications, the brake light pressure switch may not activate the brake lights with a light application of the brake pedal.
Risk: If the brake lights fail to illuminate, there would not be a signal to other motorists that the vehicle is slowing, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles, free of charge. Daimler issued interim notifications to owners on January 22, 2018. The recall began on May 9, 2018. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-756.
NHTSA recall 15V127000 · Mar 4, 2015 · 45,036 vehicles
Problem: Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 Freightliner Cascadia trucks manufactured March 26, 2007, to August 31, 2010. Water may leak into the Signal-detection and Activation Module (SAM) Chassis causing corrosion which may result in electrical shorts or possible intermittent operation of trailer lights.
Risk: Intermittent operation of the trailer lights may prevent other drivers from knowing that the truck is slowing or stopping, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash. Additionally, an electrical short in the SAM chassis may result in a a fire.
Fix: DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the SAM chassis for corrosion, replacing it as necessary. Any vehicle that does not have a drip shield mounted in the cab over the SAM chassis will receive one. These repairs will be performed free of charge. An interim letter was sent to owners on May 4, 2015. The recall began on October 8, 2015. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-745-8000. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-679.
Engine and engine cooling › Engine
NHTSA recall 14V080000 · Feb 21, 2014 · 3,258 vehicles
Problem: Daimler Trucks North America LLC (Daimler) is recalling certain model year 2008-2015 Freightliner 114SD, Cascadia, M2 Business Class, Sterling LT8500, and Thomas Built Buses Saf-T-Liner HDX vehicles manufactured February 19, 2008, through February 11, 2014, and equipped with Cummins Westport Model ISL G and Cummins Westport Model ISX12 G engines. Condensation in the intake manifold may freeze during cold weather conditions and interfere with the proper operation of the intake manifold pressure sensor.
Risk: The sensor malfunction could induce elevated exhaust temperatures or flames from the exhaust pipe, increasing the risk of a vehicle fire or burn injury to a person near the exhaust pipe.
Fix: Cummins and Cummins Westport will notify owners, and authorized Cummins service facilities will upload a new ECM calibration, free of charge. The recall began on April 12, 2014. Customers may contact Daimler at 1-800-385-4357 or Cummins Inc. at 1-800-343-7357. Daimler's number for this recall is FL-660.
Engine and engine cooling › Engine › Diesel
NHTSA recall 12V074000 · Feb 28, 2012 · 103,437 vehicles
Problem: DAIMLER TRUCKS (DTNA) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006-2013 FREIGHTLINER, STERLING, AND WESTERN STAR VEHICLES, EQUIPPED WITH DETROIT DIESEL EPA07 AND EPA10, DD13 AND DD15/16 ENGINES, MANUFACTURED FROM JANUARY 20, 2006, THROUGH FEBRUARY 20, 2012. THE PUMP TO RAIL HIGH PRESSURE FUEL LINE SUPPORT SYSTEM USED ON THESE ENGINES IS SENSITIVE TO ASSEMBLY TORQUE AND MAY BE DAMAGED DURING SERVICE WORK. AS A RESULT OF OTHER REPAIRS, THE LINE SUPPORTS MAY LOOSEN, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO FUEL LINE CRACKING AND A FUEL LEAK.
Risk: A FUEL LEAK COULD CREATE A ROAD HAZARD, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH. ALSO A FUEL LEAK IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.
Fix: DTNA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND WHERE NECESSARY, THE HIGH PRESSURE FUEL LINE SUPPORT SYSTEM WILL BE REPLACED BY DTNA AUTHORIZED SERVICE FACILITIES, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 27, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DTNA AT 1-800-547-0712.
Steering › Rack and pinion
NHTSA recall 11V514000 · Oct 13, 2011 · 9,689 vehicles
Problem: DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2011 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA, COLUMBIA, CENTURY, CORONADO, AND CLASSIC XL TRUCKS MANUFACTURED FROM NOVEMBER 1, 2004, THROUGH JUNE 15, 2010 FOR THE RACK AND PINION STEERING SYSTEM. THE LOWER PINION BEARING MAY CORRODE AND FAIL. A FAILED BEARING MAY LEAD TO DAMAGE OF THE SPOOL VALVE SEALS. A DAMAGE SPOOL VALVE SEAL MAY ALLOW HYDRAULIC FLUID TO FLOW TO THE RIGHT OR LEFT TURN PORT INSTEAD OF FLOWING TO THE RETURN PORT.
Risk: THE STEERING COULD UNEXPECTEDLY TURN LEFT OR RIGHT, MAKING THE VEHICLE MORE DIFFICULT TO CONTROL AND INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Fix: DAIMLER TRUCKS WILL INSPECT THE LOWER BEARING FOR CORROSION. IF CORROSION IS FOUND, THE RACK AND PINION SYSTEM WILL BE REPLACED. IF NO CORROSION IS FOUND, ON THE BEARING, THE BEARING WILL BE PACKED WITH GREASE AND THE RUBBER BELLOWS WILL BE REPLACED WITH SEALANT ADDED BETWEEN THE BELLOWS AND THE RACK HOUSING. AN INTERIM LETTER WAS MAILED IN DECEMBER 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-547-0712.
Problem: DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004 THROUGH 2008 HEAVY TRUCKS MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 11, 2003, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 28, 2007, EQUIPPED WITH EPA04 MODEL MBE4000 ENGINES BUILT WITH PLASTIC LOW PRESSURE FUEL LINES AND FUEL FILTERS MOUNTED NEAR THE CENTER OF THE ENGINE ON THE LEFT-HAND SIDE. THE PLASTIC LOW PRESSURE FUEL LINE BETWEEN ENGINE MOUNTED FUEL FILTER AND ENGINE BLOCK MAY DEVELOP A SUBSTANTIAL DIESEL FUEL LEAK.
Risk: THIS COULD CREATE A ROAD HAZARD INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH. FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
Fix: DAIMLER TRUCKS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND THE REMEDY WILL BE PERFORMED BY DETROIT DIESEL CORPORATION AUTHORIZED REPAIR FACILITIES. VEHICLES WILL BE INSPECTED AND THE PLASTIC LOW PRESSURE FUEL LINE WILL BE REPLACED WITH A STEEL LOW PRESSURE FUEL LINE. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. AN INTERIM LETTER WAS MAILED TO OWNERS ON OCTOBER 28, 2011. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 21, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS AT 1-800-547-0712.
Problem: DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006-2012 FREIGHTLINER BUSINESS CLASS M2, CASCADIA, CENTURY, COLUMBIA, CORONADO AND STERLING A-LINE VEHICLES BUILT WITH MERITOR WABCO ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) SYSTEM MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 15, 2005 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 1, 2011. UNDER CERTAIN ROAD AND DRIVING CONDITIONS, VEHICLE BODY ROLL AND ROAD INCLINATION CHARACTERISTICS MAY ADVERSELY AFFECT THE SLIP ANGLE CALCULATION OF THE ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) SYSTEM. THIS MIGHT CAUSE THE ESC TO PERCEIVE AN OVER STEERING SITUATION AND THEREFORE APPLY THE OUTER WHEEL BRAKE ON THE FRONT AXLE UNTIL THE VEHICLE IS PERCEIVED TO BE STABLE.
Risk: IF THE DRIVER IS SLOW TO REACT DURING THIS ESC INTERVENTION, THE VEHICLE MAY DEVIATE FROM THE INTENDED LINE OF TRAVEL INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Fix: DAIMLER TRUCKS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ESC MODULE WITH THE APPROPRIATE SOFTWARE VERSION AS NECESSARY, FREE OF CHARGE. AN INTERIM OWNER NOTIFICATION WILL BE MAILED ON OR ABOUT NOVEMBER 21, 2011. THE DATE FOR AVAILABILITY OF THE FINAL REMEDY IS SUBJECT TO VALIDATION TESTING AND PARTS AVAILABILITY. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 28, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-547-0712.
Electrical system › 12v/24v/48v battery › Cables
NHTSA recall 11V330000 · Jun 21, 2011 · 48,170 vehicles
Problem: DTNA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2012 FREIGHTLINER; CASCADIA, CENTURY CLASS, COLUMBIA, AND CORONADO, CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2009 STERLING; A-LINE AND L-LINE AND CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009-2012 WESTERN STAR CONSTELLATION VEHICLES, MANUFACTURED FROM JANUARY 14, 2008, THROUGH JUNE 15, 2011, BUILT WITH DETROIT DIESEL 15 OR 16 ENGINES. THE BOLT ATTACHING A RUBBER ISOLATOR TO A SUPPORT BRACKET MAY BECOME LOOSE AND BACK OUT, POTENTIALLY CONTACTING AN UN-FUSED STARTER CABLE AND CREATING A SHORT CIRCUIT.
Risk: A SHORT CIRCUIT BETWEEN AN UN-FUSED BATTERY CABLE AND CHASSIS GROUND COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE.
Fix: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW BOLT AND ISOLATOR AND REPAIR THE RECREATIONAL VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 21, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DTNA AT 1-800-547-0712.
Engine and engine cooling
NHTSA recall 11V146000 · Mar 3, 2011 · 2,073 vehicles
Problem: DAIMLER TRUCKS (DTNA) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006 THROUGH 2011 FREIGHTLINER, CASCADIA, CENTURY, COLUMBIA FLD, AND M2, STERLING 9500, AND WESTERN STAR 4900 HEAVY TRUCKS MANUFACTURED FROM MARCH 20, 2006, THROUGH JUNE 30, 2010, EQUIPPED WITH SPECIFIC MBE4000 EPA07 MODEL ENGINES. THE INTAKE AIR GRID HEATER MAY SHORT CIRCUIT AND FAIL DUE TO EXCESSIVE INTERNAL TEMPERATURES.
Risk: A SHORT CIRCUITED GRID HEATER COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE AND INJURY TO VEHICLE OCCUPANTS.
Fix: DTNA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF THE RECALL DURING MARCH 2011. ANOTHER NOTIFICATION WILL BE ISSUED ONCE THE REMEDY IS RELEASED. DTNA EXPECTS THE REMEDY TO BE AVAILABLE BY DECEMBER 1, 2011. REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED BY DTNA DEALERS FREE OF CHARGE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DTNA TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-547-0712. THIS RECALL IS ASSCOCIATED WITH A PREVIOUS RECALL, CAMPAIGN NUMBER 10V-341.
Problem: DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2007 THROUGH 2011 FREIGHTLINER, FCCC, STERLING, AND WESTERN STAR HEAVY TRUCKS MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 5, 2006, THROUGH JUNE 30, 2010, EQUIPPED WITH SPECIFIC MBE900 EPA04 AND EPA07 MODEL ENGINES. THE INTAKE AIR GRID HEATER MAY SHORT CIRCUIT AND FAIL DUE TO EXCESSIVE INTERNAL TEMPERATURES.
Risk: A SHORT CIRCUITED GRID HEATER COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE AND INJURY TO VEHICLE OCCUPANTS.
Fix: DAIMLER TRUCKS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE BUSES FREE OF CHARGE. REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED BY DETROIT DIESEL CORPORATION AUTHORIZED REPAIR FACILITIES. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT JULY 29, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-547-0712.
Fuel system, other
NHTSA recall 10V189000 · May 7, 2010 · 30,704 vehicles
Problem: DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 THROUGH 2011 FREIGHTLINER COLUMBIA, CASCADIA, CORONADO, CENTURY, M2, STERLING 9500, AND WESTERN STAR 4900 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH DD 13 AND DD15/DD16 ENGINES AND MANUFACTURED FROM JANUARY 1, 2007 THROUGH APRIL 5, 2010. SHOULD THE FUEL FILTER BECOME RESTRICTED, THE LOW PRESSURE FUEL FLANGE MAY DEVELOP A CRACK RESULTING IN A FUEL LEAK.
Risk: FUEL LEAKING ONTO THE ROADWAY MAY RESULT IN VEHICLE CRASH.
Fix: THE LOW PRESSURE FUEL FLANGE WILL BE REPLACED WITH A MORE ROBUST COMPONENT. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 17, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS AT 1-800-547-0712.
Electrical system › Software
NHTSA recall 10V102000 · Mar 16, 2010 · 490 vehicles
Problem: DAIMLER TRUCKS HAS NOTIFIED NHTSA OF A DEFECT IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 THROUGH 2010 CASCADIA EQUIPPED WITH LIFEGUARD ROLLTEK ADVANCED OCCUPANT PROTECTION SYSTEM. THE LIFEGUARD ROLLTEK IS DESIGNED TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL PROTECTION TO VEHICLE OCCUPANTS IN THE EVENT OF A ROLLOVER ACCIDENT AND IT MAY NOT HAVE BEEN PROPERLY INSTALLED.
Risk: REDUCED EFFECTIVENESS OF THE ADVANCED OCCUPANT PROTECTION SYSTEM MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF INJURY.
Fix: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND INSTALL AN ADDITIONAL RETAINERS TO ENSURE THE SYSTEM REMAINS FULLY FUNCTIONAL. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 4, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS AT 1-800-547-0712.
Engine and engine cooling
NHTSA recall 09V400000 · Oct 8, 2009 · 18,067 vehicles
Problem: DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING MODEL YEAR 2007-2010 FREIGHTLINER, STERLING AND WESTERN STAR VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH DETROIT DIESEL DD15 EPA07 ENGINES WHICH WERE MANUFACTURED WITH GRID HEATERS. INCREASED INTERNAL GRID HEATER RESISTANCE CAUSED BY IMPROPERLY TIGHTENED SCREWS MAY MELT THE SOLDER ON THE GRID HEATER CIRCUIT BOARD LEADING TO A SHORT CIRCUIT.
Risk: A SHORT-CIRCUITED GRID HEATER COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE AND INJURY TO VEHICLE OCCUPANTS.
Fix: THE ENGINE CONTROL LOGIC WILL BE REPROGRAMMED FREE OF CHARGE BY DETROIT DIESEL AUTHORIZED REPAIR FACILITIES AND DIRECT WARRANTY CUSTOMERS TO PROVIDE COLD WEATHER STARTING WITHOUT THE NEED OF A GRID HEATER. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 4, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DETROIT DIESEL AT 1-313-592-5800 AND DAIMLER TRUCKS AT 1-800-547-0712.
Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings
NHTSA recall 09V391000 · Oct 6, 2009 · 10,185 vehicles
Problem: DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006 THROUGH 2010 HEAVY TRUCKS MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JANUARY 17, 2006 AND MARCH 31, 2009, EQUIPPED WITH EPA07 MODEL MBE4000 ENGINES BUILT WITH PLASTIC LOW PRESSURE FUEL LINES. THE PLASTIC LINES MAY EXPERIENCE LEAKS DUE TO FATIGUE CRACKS CAUSED BY STRESS AND VIBRATION COMBINED WITH HIGH INTERNAL PRESSURE.
Risk: IF A DIESEL FUEL LEAK CONTINUES UNDETECTED UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS FUEL MAY IGNITE ON A HOT ENGINE SURFACE AND/OR FUEL MAY SPILL ON THE ROAD INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Fix: DAIMLER TRUCKS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND THE REMEDY WILL BE PERFORMED BY DETROIT DIESEL CORPORATION AUTHORIZED REPAIR FACILITIES AND DIRECT WARRANTY CUSTOMERS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 7, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS AT 1-800-547-0712.
Problem: DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 THROUGH 2009 TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH INDIANA MILLS AND MANUFACTURING ROLLTEK SIDE-ROLL PROTECTION SYSTEMS. THE SENSOR DESIGNED TO DETECT VEHICLE ROLL CAN MALFUNCTION AND CAUSE THE SIDE AIRBAGS TO INADVERTENTLY DEPLOY.
Risk: INADVERTENT DEPLOYMENT OF THE SIDE AIRBAGS COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH OR INJURY TO AN OUT OF POSITION OCCUPANT.
Fix: DAIMLER TRUCKS WILL INSPECT TO DETERMINE IF A VEHICLE CONTAINS AN AFFECTED SYSTEM AND, IF SO, THAT SYSTEM WILL BE REPLACED FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE NOVEMBER 20, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS AT 1-800-547-0712.
Steering › Rack and pinion
NHTSA recall 09V357000 · Sep 16, 2009 · 8,882 vehicles · opened after NHTSA action (ODI)
Problem: DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005 THROUGH 2010 HEAVY DUTY TRUCKS MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 29, 2005 THROUGH JULY 3, 2009. UNDER CERTAIN CONDITION, THE LEFT HAND INNER TIE ROD END MAY LOOSEN OVER TIME AND IF NOT CORRECTED, POTENTIALLY SEPARATE FROM THE STEERING RACK.
Risk: A SEPARATED TIE ROD ASSEMBLY CAN RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL AT HIGHER SPEEDS AND A CRASH COULD OCCUR.
Fix: DAIMLER TRUCKS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND THE VEHICLES WILL BE REPAIRED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 5, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-547-0712.
Electrical system
NHTSA recall 09V024000 · Jan 22, 2009 · 14,181 vehicles
Problem: DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING 14181 MY 2007-2009 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH CAB SIGNAL-DETECT AND ACTIVATION MODULES (SAMS). POTENTIAL CORROSION DAMAGE DUE TO WATER INTRUSION INTO THE SAMS MAY CAUSE ELECTRICAL SHORTS OR INTERMITTENT OPERATION OF TAIL LAMPS, STOP LAMPS, SIDE MARKER LAMPS AND TRAILER LIGHTING. IN SOME CASES STARTER MOTORS HAVE ACTIVATED WITHOUT A KEY ON.
Risk: AN ELECTRICAL SHORT IN THE CAB SAM OR CHASSIS SAM MAY CAUSE MELTING IN THE SAM OR OTHER ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS WHICH MAY CAUSE A VEHICLE FIRE.
Fix: DEALERS WILL INSPECT FOR INDICATION OF WATER INTRUSION OR DAMAGE TO THE SAMS. SAMS WILL BE REPLACED AS REQUIRED AND MODIFICATIONS WILL BE COMPLETED TO CONTROL POSSIBLE SOURCES OF WATER INTRUSION. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE FEBRUARY 13, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS AT 1-800-547-0712.
Problem: DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING 900 MY 2008 FREIGHTLINER ARGOSY, ARGOSY RHD, CASCADIA, COLUMBIA, CENTURY ST, CORONADO, STERLING ACTERRA, L-LINE AND WESTERN STAR 4900 TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH BENDIX MV-3 DASH CONTROL VALVES. THE MOLDED VALVE BODY HAS AN INCORRECT CORE PIN IN THE INJECTION MOLD CAUSING THE VALVE BODY TO BE OVERSIZED IN THE DOUBLE CHECK VALVE AREA. THIS CONDITION CAN ALLOW THE RUBBER DOUBLE CHECK VALVE TO BECOME LODGED IN THE BODY OPENING UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES.
Risk: IF THE DOUBLE CHECK VALVE BECOMES LODGED, IN THE EVENT OF A PRIMARY RESERVOIR FAILURE, AIR PRESSURE CAN LEAK PAST THE LODGED DOUBLE CHECK VALVE THEREBY DEPLETING THE SECONDARY RESERVOIR, CAUSING REDUCED ABILITY FOR MODULATING THE SERVICE EMERGENCY BRAKES INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Fix: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE MV-3 DASH VALVE FOR THE PRODUCTION DATE CODE. VALVES IN THE AFFECTED PRODUCTION LOTS WILL BE REPLACED FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 9, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS AT 1-800-547-0712.
Service brakes, air › Disc
NHTSA recall 08V029000 · Jan 28, 2008 · 473 vehicles
Problem: ON CERTAIN TRUCKS AND MOTOR HOMES CHASSIS, INCORRECT FASTENERS MAY NOT PROVIDE ADEQUATE CLAMPING FORCE BETWEEN THE BRAKE CALIPER AND BRAKE ANCHOR PLATE POTENTIALLY RESULTING IN REDUCED BRAKE EFFECTIVENESS.
Risk: REDUCED BRAKE EFFECTIVENESS COULD LEAD TO A VEHICLE CRASH.
Fix: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE VEHICLES TO DETERMINE IF INCORRECT BOLTS WERE USED. IF INCORRECT BOLTS ARE FOUND, VEHICLES WILL BE INSPECTED FOR POSSIBLE ADDITIONAL DAMAGE AND REPAIRED AS REQUIRED. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 6, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICA AT 1-800-547-0712.
Steering › Gear box › Shaft sector
NHTSA recall 07V592000 · Dec 21, 2007 · 220 vehicles
Problem: ON CERTAIN TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH TRW STEERING GEARS, MODELS TAS85 AND RCS85, THESE STEERING GEARS CONTAIN POTENTIALLY DEFECTIVE SECTOR SHAFTS WITH AN INCORRECT GEAR TOOTH WHICH MAY INTERFERE WITH THE RACK-PISTON TEETH, RESULTING IN A STICK OR BIND CONDITION.
Risk: THIS CONDITION HAS THE POTENTIAL TO CAUSE THE STEERING GEAR TO STALL AND RESTRICT THE STEERING TURNING ANGLE OF THE VEHICLE WHICH COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Fix: FREIGHTLINER IS WORKING WITH TRW TO REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE STEERING GEAR (PLEASE SEE 07E101). THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 18, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FREIGHTLINER AT 1-800-547-0712.
Recall repairs are free at any authorised dealer. A recall listed here may already have been fixed on a particular car: enter its 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see open recalls.
What owners report
Problem area
Complaints
Crashes
Fires
Injuries
Typical mileage*
Steering
7
0
0
0
598,000 mi
Visibility Windshield
1
0
0
0
—
Wheels
1
0
0
0
—
*Median odometer reading when the problem happened, where owners gave one. One complaint can name several problem areas.
Recent owner complaints
Jan 1, 2020 · 784,969 milesSteering TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS, OIL LEAKED FROM THE RACK AND PINION. DUE TO THE FAILURE, THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO MANEUVER THE STEERING WHEEL WHILE DRIVING. THE CONTACT HAD THE VEHICLE REPAIRED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC HOWEVER, THE FAILURE PERSISTED AFTER THE REPAIR. UPON INVESTIGATION, THE CONTACT LINKED THE FAILURE TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V514000 (STEERING) HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 784,969.
Nov 1, 2015 · 720,000 milesSteering TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING GEAR BOX FAILED AND THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE STEERING GEAR BOX NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 07V592000 (STEERING). THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 720,000.
Mar 6, 2015 · 598,000 milesSteering THE LEFT TIE ROD END SEPARATED. *TR
Jan 24, 2014 · 666,640 milesSteering TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 2008 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 11V514000 (STEERING) AND REPAIRED. THE CONTACT WAS REVERSING WHEN THE POWER STEERING ASSIST FAILED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND WOULD NOT ASSIST WITH REPAIRS BECAUSE THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED UNDER THE RECALL. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 666,640.
Aug 19, 2011 · 42,080 milesSteering TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS AT THE LOCAL MECHANIC FOR A WHEEL ALIGNMENT INSPECTION, THE MECHANIC FOUND THAT THE DRIVER SIDE RACK PINION INNER TIE ROD WAS SEPARATED DUE TO DEFECTIVE MATERIAL. THE MANUFACTURER ADVISED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 09V357000 RECALL (STEERING: RACK AND PINION), AND DENIED ASSISTANCE WITH THE REPAIR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 42,080 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 44,060.
Dec 26, 2010 · 457,939 milesSteering I HAD MADE AN OBSERVATION THAT THE RS STEER TIRE WAS WEARING VERY FAST AND WORE A NEW TIRE DOWN TO THE WEAR BARS IN 2 MONTHS. I BROUGHT THE VEHICLE INTO A FREIGHTLINER FACILITY FOR AN ALIGNMENT. THE SERVICE MANAGER TOLD ME THAT THE RACK IN THE RACK AND PINION STEERING MECHANISMS WAS FAULTY AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED BUT UNFORTUNATELY THEY DO NOT MAKE THIS PART ANY LONGER AND HAVE NO SERVICE PARTS. THERE IS NO REMEDY. MY CONCERN IS THAT THIS PART WILL CONTINUE TO FAIL TO THE POINT WHERE IT BECOMES UNSAFE. I AM NOT A MECHANIC BUT I AM SURE THAT IF IT WEARS A TIRE DOWN IN 2 MONTHS THEN IT IS NOT SETUP PROPERLY AND SHOULD NOT BE TRUSTED. THE SERVICE MANAGER SAYS THAT AT THE CURRENT TIME IT IS…
Nov 9, 2008 · 8,000 milesSteering IN NOVEMBER OF 2008 WE SEEN OUR FIRST RACK AND PINION FAILURE. WE SEEN PREMATURE STEER TIRE WEAR ON THE RIGHTSIDE. CONTACTED FREIGHTLINER AND INSTALLED NEW RACKS AND THAT DIDN'T REPAIR THE PROBLEM. ON THE OTHER 18 WE INCURRED THE SAME PROBLEM SOME WORSE THE OTHERS. BY JULY WE COMPILED A AVERAGE OF STEER TIRE WEAR ON THE CASCADIA WAS 8,000 MILES TO THE BEST BEING 98,000. AT THIS POINT WE ARE WAITING FOR MORE ANSWERS TO OUR PROBLEM. WE HAVE THE NEW RECALL INFORMATION ,BUT WE HAVEN'T SEEN THE CURE OF THE RACK AND PINION YET. TODAY WE ARE CHECKING EACH UNIT EACH TIME THEY COME BACK AND IF THERE IS A LOOSE RACK WHEN STEERS ARE STRAIGHT FORWARD THEN THEY MUST BE REPLACED. *TR
Feb 27, 2009 · 4,000 milesVisibility › Windshield TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED ACCORDING TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 09V024000. HOWEVER, THE SAME CHASSIS ARE STILL RECEIVING WATER INSIDE THEM FROM THE WINDSHIELD, WHICH CAUSES THE VEHICLE TO SHUT OFF. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOUR TIMES FOR THIS ISSUE AND THEY REPLACED THE COMPUTER BOARD. THIS DID NOT REMEDY THE ISSUE. THE VEHICLE IS UNSAFE BECAUSE IT CAN SHUT OFF ON THE HIGHWAY IN RAINY CONDITIONS AND CAUSE A CRASH. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 32,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 4,000.
Owner complaints are submitted to NHTSA by the public and are not verified. Shown as filed (NHTSA removes personal details); long reports are shortened.
NHTSA defect investigations
RQ20001 · opened Aug 31, 2020 · closed Jun 26, 2025SAM Cab Water Intrusion On August 31, 2020, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a recall query, RQ20001, to investigate the allegations of water intrusion into the truck cab signal-detect and activation module (SAM cab).The investigation further evaluated the effectiveness of the original recall remedy, and the installation of an updated drip shield as it relates to continual water intrusion resulting in the loss of electrical functions and potential fire.The potential hazard was the increased risk of a crash and injury in certain model year (MY) 2007-2021 Freightliner Cascadia P3 vehicles manufactured by Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA). ODI sent DTNA an information request (IR) letter on September 29, 2020.DTNA's November 20, 2020, IR response detailed how the company had implemented various improvements through recall 09V024 and multiple technical service bulletins (TSBs) to mitigate water…
AQ18002 · opened Apr 23, 2018 · closed Jul 11, 2024Daimler Trucks North America Recalls On April 23, 2018, the National Highway Traï¬c Safety Administration (âNHTSAâ) opened Audit Query (AQ18002) to assess the timeliness and scope of four recalls ï¬led by Daimler Trucks North America, LLC (âDTNAâ). NHTSA subsequently expanded AQ18002 to examine the timeliness and scope of three additional DTNA recalls and compliance with early warning reporting and manufacturer communications reporting requirements. NHTSA and DTNA entered into a Consent Order on December 29, 2020, to resolve NHTSAâs assertions that certain recalls within the scope of AQ18002 were untimely, DTNA failed to timely submit certain manufacturer communications to NHTSA, and DTNA failed to submit ï¬eld reports to NHTSA as required. As part of the Consent Order, DTNA agreed to a total civil penalty of thirty million dollars ($30,000,000), of which ten million dollars ($10,000,000) was paid on January…
PE09040 · opened Aug 31, 2009 · closed Nov 19, 2009 · led to recall 09V357000RACK AND PINION FAILURE A CONSUMER COMPLAINT WAS FILED WITH THE AGENCY ON AUGUST 22, 2009, BY AN INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR LEASING A 2009 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA.THE COMPLAINT ALLEGES THAT IN APRIL OF 2009 AT APPROXIMATELY 50,000 MILES HE EXPERIENCED A SEAL RUPTURE IN THE RACK AND PINION ASSEMBLY.A NEW SEAL WAS INSTALLED AND AT 56,000 MILES HE FOUND HIS RIGHT STEER TIRE COMPLETELY BALD.THE REPAIR SHOP IDENTIFIED AN INTERNAL FAILURE OF THE RACK AND PINION ASSEMBLY CAUSING THE RAPID WEAR OF THE TIRE.ODI HAS IDENTIFIED EWR FIELD REPORTS RELATED TO FAILED RACK AND PINIONS ON THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.THE REPORTS IDENTIFY EITHER AN INTERNAL FAILURE OF THE RACK AND PINION ASSEMBLY THAT RESULTED IN CRASHES OR A LOOSENESS OF THE INNER TIE ROD END OF THE RACK AND PINION RESULTING IN A POOR ALIGNMENT AND PREMATURE TIRE WEAR.INFORMATION RECEIVED DURING THIS INVESTIGATION FROM FREIGHTLINER DETAILED FAILURES OF THE RACK AND PINION…