NHTSA Recalls: New, Potentially Devastating Steering Failure in DTNA Trucks

DTNA Recalls Over 3,000 Freightliner and Western Star Trucks Due to Potential Steering Issue

Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) initiated a recall affecting over 3,000 Freightliner and Western Star trucks due to a potential steering problem that could lead to loss of control. The recall involves vehicles from the 2025 model year and focuses on a defect in the tie rod of the front axle, which could pose a significant safety risk.

The Cause of the NHTSA Recalls: Improperly Heat-Treated Ball Studs

The key issue triggering this recall is related to the ball studs within the tie rod assemblies. According to DTNA, these ball studs are improperly heat-treated by a third-party supplier, leading to a higher risk of them cracking and failing. This defect can cause the tie rod to fail, resulting in a partial or complete loss of steering control, which significantly increases the risk of a crash.

The affected trucks include the following models:

• Freightliner 108SD: Manufactured between April 22 and June 26, 2024
• Freightliner 114SD: Manufactured between May 20 and July 2, 2024
• Western Star 47X: Manufactured on June 21, 2024
• Freightliner Business Class M2: Manufactured between April 22 and July 20, 2024
• Freightliner Cascadia: Manufactured between April 15 and July 11, 2024

Impact of the NHTSA Recalls

While the total number of vehicles involved in the recall is 3,421, DTNA estimates that only about 1% of these trucks are likely to have the defect. Nevertheless, the company is taking proactive measures to address the issue and prevent any potential safety hazards on the road.

Previous NHTSA Recalls Linked to the Same Supplier

This recall is part of a broader issue affecting multiple truck manufacturers, all stemming from the same third-party supplier. In addition to DTNA, other truck manufacturers have also issued recalls due to improperly heat-treated ball studs. In June, Paccar recalled nearly 3,900 medium- and heavy-duty trucks for a similar steering issue, a number that has since grown to 7,400. Navistar has also recalled over 500 International trucks due to the same defect.

The ball studs in question were mixed into normal production flow by USK International, the supplier, without proper validation of the heat treat process. This widespread issue has led to significant safety concerns across the trucking industry.

What DTNA is Doing to Address the Issue

DTNA is working closely with its dealers to replace the faulty tie rod assemblies in the affected trucks. The replacement will be provided free of charge to the owners. The company has stated that owner notification letters will be mailed by September 29, 2024.

Owners of the affected vehicles can contact DTNA customer service at 800-745-8000 for more information. Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) can be reached through its Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or by visiting the NHTSA website for further details.

Safety First: The Importance of Addressing Recalls

Recalls like this one serve as a critical reminder of the importance of vehicle safety and the role that manufacturers and suppliers play in maintaining that safety. While the percentage of affected vehicles in this recall is relatively small, the potential consequences of a failure are severe, making it essential for truck owners to stay informed and take prompt action when notified of a recall.

DTNA’s proactive approach in recalling these vehicles highlights the company’s commitment to safety and its responsibility to ensure that all trucks on the road are operating safely. Truck drivers and fleet managers are encouraged to contact DTNA or the NHTSA if they believe their vehicle might be affected.

Looking Ahead

The recall of over 3,000 Freightliner and Western Star trucks underscores the importance of rigorous quality control and supplier management in the manufacturing process. As DTNA continues to address this issue, truck owners should remain vigilant and ensure that any necessary repairs are completed promptly to avoid potential safety risks on the road.

For further information on this recall and others, truck owners are advised to stay connected with DTNA and NHTSA resources.