Freightliner Cascadia recalled over injury risk

Recall date

October 1, 2015

Source

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

Official notice title

Daimler Trucks North America, LLC recalls 2011–2014 Freightliner — 4 models

Recall number

15V616000

Brand / firm

Freightliner

Sold / distributed

Potentially affected: 5,801 units

Why it was recalled

If the fifth wheel and locking mechanism are sufficiently damaged, the locking mechanism may fail to operate as intended and the trailer may unexpectedly detach from the tractor, increasing the risk of a crash.

What was recalled

Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Cascadia, Business Class M2, Coronado, and Columbia Glider vehicles manufactured April 5, 2010, to June 15, 2013. The affected trucks are equipped with Fontaine Ultra LT Fifth Wheel connectors, which, due to cumulative damage to the fifth wheel and its locking mechanism, have a locking mechanism that may fail to operate or to properly engage.

What to do

DTNA will notify owners, and DTNA authorized service facilities will replace the fifth wheel with an Ultra NT model fifth wheel, free of charge. The recall began on November 20, 2015. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-745-8000. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-692.. Follow the official notice for full instructions.