The Recall Desk
SevereNHTSA·11V514000·Announced 2011-10-13

Daimler Trucks Recalls Freightliner Models for Steering System Defect

Daimler Trucks is recalling certain 2005-2011 Freightliner trucks because a corroded steering bearing may cause unexpected turning, increasing crash risk.

What this means for you

Illness, injury, or structural failure has been reported. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a structural vehicle defect in the steering system that increases the risk of a crash, meeting the criteria for a Severe rating.

Plain-English summary

Daimler Trucks North America is recalling certain model year 2005-2011 Freightliner Cascadia, Columbia, Century, Coronado, and Classic XL trucks manufactured between November 1, 2004, and June 15, 2010. The recall addresses a defect in the rack and pinion steering system where the lower pinion bearing may corrode and fail.

A failed bearing can damage the spool valve seals, allowing hydraulic fluid to flow to the turn ports instead of the return port. This may cause the steering to unexpectedly turn left or right, making the vehicle more difficult to control and increasing the risk of a crash.

Owners should contact Daimler Trucks toll-free at 1-800-547-0712 to schedule an inspection. Daimler Trucks will inspect the lower bearing for corrosion; if found, the rack and pinion system will be replaced. If no corrosion is found, the bearing will be packed with grease and the rubber bellows replaced with sealant added. An interim letter was mailed in December 2011.

The recalled product

Product
FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA, CLASSIC XL, CORONADO, CENTURY
Brand
FREIGHTLINER
Affected units
9,689

Is your product affected?

Check your packaging against the codes below. If any of them match, the product is part of this recall.

Model numbers (5)

  • CASCADIA
  • CLASSIC XL
  • CORONADO
  • CENTURY
  • COLUMBIA

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.