Daimler Trucks North America is placing a voluntary recall on certain models of Freightliner, Freightliner Custom Chassis, and Western Star trucks from the 2013 model year. The recall encompasses Freightliner Cascadia, Columbia, Business Class M2, and Coronado vehicles, while the Freightliner Custom Chassic XC and the Western Star 4900 are the other types of models affected. Each of the trucks was produced between April 18 and May 11 of this year. 217 vehicles in total fall within the purview of the recall.
Trucks affected may have issues with their front axle knuckles, which are of the Detroit Axle Brand. A machining error affecting the wheel bearing area could have compromised these components’ viability, which can lead to mechanical problems. Specifically, the spindle could fail earlier than would be acceptable or safe. The wheels can thus become detached from the affected knuckles while the vehicles are in motion, which can cause unintended loss of control by the driver and increase the possibility that the vehicle will be placed in a crash situation.
Owners of the affected vehicles can expect to receive a notice from Daimler alerting them to the issue. This should take place by August 11 at the latest. Once the alert has been received, consumers will be able to bring their trucks in to get the issue fixed by a dealer. This will be done for free.