New Daimler Trucks Recall: 21,560 CMVs with Fire Risk

Daimler Trucks: Battery Defect Prompts Safety Recall for Western Star Models

A new Daimler Trucks recall has been issued affecting more than 21,000 Western Star trucks due to a potentially dangerous electrical defect that could lead to vehicle fires. The recall, filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), includes certain 2020–2026 Western Star 49X and 2021–2026 Western Star 47X models.

21,560 Trucks Affected Nationwide

Daimler Trucks North America, LLC (DTNA) confirmed that a total of 21,560 vehicles may be impacted by this recall. The issue centers around a battery connection stud at the frame rail, which may have been installed incorrectly. This faulty installation can cause a short circuit, posing a significant fire risk.

According to DTNA, the defect affects trucks configured with a positive junction point stud that connects the battery or auxiliary power distribution to the starter. When improperly installed, this component can experience corrosion, overheating, and in some cases, may lead to a “thermal event”—industry language for smoke or fire.

Safety Risk and Warning Signs

The NHTSA warned that a short circuit caused by the defect “increases the risk of a fire.” While no injuries or deaths have been reported, DTNA acknowledged receiving 15 field reports and 36 warranty claims that may be related to the issue.

In affected vehicles, drivers may notice early warning signs. These can include slow or failed engine starts, as well as visible corrosion around the battery stud or cable lug.

The risk is especially concerning for vehicles operating in harsh or corrosive environments, which DTNA indicated may contribute to the degradation of the battery connection.

Recall Chronology and Response from Daimler Trucks

The defect was first brought to DTNA’s attention between March 2023 and March 2024 through a small number of reports involving corrosion and electrical issues. A vehicle fire was reported in December 2023, followed by melted cables and incorrectly oriented lugs in early 2024.

Despite early concerns, the company initially determined that a field action wasn’t needed due to the issue’s low frequency and visibility during inspections. However, between February and March 2025, additional field reports—some involving localized fires—led DTNA to revisit the problem.

On May 12, 2025, the company decided to launch a formal recall to address the situation.

Remedy in Development

As of now, the recall remedy is still under development. Daimler Trucks North America stated that repairs will be carried out free of charge at authorized service locations. Updated production procedures were implemented on May 19, 2025, including revised torque specifications, added inspections for correct cable orientation, and application of dielectric paint.

Owners will be notified by mail once the remedy is finalized and available. The recall identification number is F1020, and owners with questions can contact DTNA at 1-800-547-0712. The NHTSA Campaign Number for this recall is 25V326.

What Daimler Trucks Owners Should Know

While no specific advisory such as “Do Not Drive” has been issued at this time, the NHTSA encourages operators to park vehicles outdoors and away from structures until repairs can be made—especially if signs of corrosion or slow cranking are observed.

Owners may also contact the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or visit nhtsa.gov for more information.

VIN Search and Recall Notifications

Daimler Trucks will notify affected customers via first-class mail. Dealers are expected to receive communication in phases as the repair becomes available. Customers can also check their truck’s status using the VIN lookup tool on NHTSA’s website once the searchable database is updated.