DTNA to Recall 18,105 Freightliner Cascadias
Daimler Trucks North America is recalling 18,105 of its 2018-19 Freightliner Cascadia models due to an issue with its brake caliper mounting bolts.
The bolts may not have been properly tightened, which could result in “reduced brake effectiveness” leading to a vehicle crash, according to a safety recall report posted with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. DTNA said that as many as 25% of the 18,105 trucks may have the defect.
DTNA informed NHTSA it planned to notify vehicle owners and that dealers will inspect the mounting bolts and tighten them if necessary for free. Daimler said it expected the recall to begin Aug.13. The trucks were produced from Jan. 2, 2017, to May 19, 2018.
The mounting bolt issue with the Cascadia dates to August 2017, when DTNA received a report of missing bolts on one vehicle, followed by similar reports in October, according to the recall report. Investigations appeared to show isolated problems with the bolts, and DTNA implemented improvements and checks on installations during the manufacturing process.
But in February, DTNA began a deeper investigation and concluded in May that the original problem “may not have been an isolated incident.” In June, it notified NHTSA that it would conduct the recall and tighten the bolts.
What customers should know:
• Vehicle owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712.
• The reference number for this recall is FL-775.
• Owners can research the issue and search using their vehicle VIN at www.nhtsa.gov/recalls.
• NHTSA safety hotline: 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153).
