Owners have filed 24 complaints
about the 2009 Freightliner Cascadia with NHTSA between 2009 and 2019.
The largest single group is the steering.
Across this model's run it ranks 13 of 15 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 48
Against the median year of the Freightliner Cascadia. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 65
12.5% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 14
8% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
How 2009 compares with every other Freightliner Cascadia
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
18.3%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
18.3%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
216.7%
150,000+ miles
866.7%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Feb 2009peak 3Mar 2019
NHTSA investigations into the 2009 Freightliner Cascadia
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
RQ20001Opened 31 Aug 2020Closed 26 Jun 2025ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
SAM Cab Water Intrusion
On August 31, 2020, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a recall query, RQ20001, to investigate the allegations of water intrusion into the truck cab signal-detect and activation module (SAM cab).The investigation further evaluated the effectiveness of the original recall remedy, and the installation of an updated drip shield as it relates to continual water intrusion resulting in the loss of electrical functions and potential fire.The potential hazard was the increased risk of a crash and injury in certain model year (MY) 2007-2021 Freightliner Cascadia P3 vehicles manufactured b...
On April 23, 2018, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (“NHTSA”) opened Audit Query (AQ18002) to assess the timeliness and scope of four recalls filed by Daimler Trucks North America, LLC (“DTNA”). NHTSA subsequently expanded AQ18002 to examine the timeliness and scope of three additional DTNA recalls and compliance with early warning reporting and manufacturer communications reporting requirements. NHTSA and DTNA entered into a Consent Order on December 29, 2020, to resolve NHTSA’s assertions that certain recalls within the scope of AQ18002 were untimely, DTNA failed to timely sub...
PE12018Opened 25 Jun 2012Closed 20 Sep 2012SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:SUPPLY:RESERVOIR/TANK
Air Brake Reservoir Bracket Fracture
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received Early Warning Reporting (EWR) data from the manufacturer that indicated some number of subject vehicles had allegedly experienced a fracture of one or more support brackets resulting in an unsecured air brake reservoir.This could result in a loss of air pressure necessary for proper service brake application and a potential road hazard if the reservoir separates from the vehicle in operation.By letter dated August 15, 2012, Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) has notified ODI that it has initiated a safety recall (identified by NTHSA Recal...
PE09040Opened 31 Aug 2009Closed 19 Nov 2009STEERING:RACK AND PINION
RACK AND PINION FAILURE
A CONSUMER COMPLAINT WAS FILED WITH THE AGENCY ON AUGUST 22, 2009, BY AN INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR LEASING A 2009 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA.THE COMPLAINT ALLEGES THAT IN APRIL OF 2009 AT APPROXIMATELY 50,000 MILES HE EXPERIENCED A SEAL RUPTURE IN THE RACK AND PINION ASSEMBLY.A NEW SEAL WAS INSTALLED AND AT 56,000 MILES HE FOUND HIS RIGHT STEER TIRE COMPLETELY BALD.THE REPAIR SHOP IDENTIFIED AN INTERNAL FAILURE OF THE RACK AND PINION ASSEMBLY CAUSING THE RAPID WEAR OF THE TIRE.ODI HAS IDENTIFIED EWR FIELD REPORTS RELATED TO FAILED RACK AND PINIONS ON THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.THE REPORTS IDENTIFY EITHER AN...
Recalls on the 2009 Freightliner Cascadia
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 2020158873 units in Canada
Lights And Instruments
Issue: On certain trucks equipped with "Fleet Engineer" mud flaps, the bracket for the mud flaps may partially cover the rear reflective tape. Canadian regulations require that reflective tape must be visible on the rear of the truck. Safety Risk: Reflective tape that is covered may make the truck less visible to others and could create an increased risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: Daimler Trucks of North America (DTNA) will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your truck to an authorized DTNA Service Facility to inspect the reflective tape. It will be moved as necessary to meet the regulations.
Recall 201758341,763 units in Canada
Brakes
On certain vehicles with air brakes, after several hard brake applications, the brake light pressure switch may not activate the brake lights with a light application of the brake pedal. If the brake lights do not illuminate, following road users would be unaware of the intent of the driver to slow the vehicle, which could increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Daimler Trucks North America authorized service facilities will repair the brake light pressure switch.
Recall 20151134,165 units in Canada
Lights And Instruments
On certain vehicles water intrusion could occur, and corrode and damage inside of the Signal-detect and Activation Module (SAM) Chassis. This corrosion could cause electrical shorts or intermittent operation of trailer tail lamps, trailer stop lamps, trailer side marker lamps and trailer lighting. Failure of the stop lamps to illuminate when the brakes are applied may result in following road users being unaware of the driver's intentions, increasing the risk of a crash causing property damage and/or personal injury. Also, under certain conditions, an electrical short in the Chassis SAM could also cause melting in the SAM or other electrical components, which could result in a vehicle fire. Correction: Dealers will inspect the Signal-detect and Activation Module (SAM) Chassis for evidence of corrosion and proper drip loop wire routing, and SAM Chassis damaged by corrosion will be replaced. A drip shield will be mounted inside the cab over the SAM chassis if not previously installed.
Recall 2012281147 units in Canada
Brakes
On certain trucks, the air tank mounting brackets may crack, which could allow the tank to detach from the vehicle. An air tank separating from the vehicle could strike another vehicle, a stationary object, or a bystander. As well, loss of an air tank would cause a loss of service brakes, which could increase stopping distances, possibly causing a crash. These issues could result in property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will replace the air tank mounting brackets.
Recall 201208011,923 units in Canada
Fuel System
On certain trucks equipped with a Detroit Diesel DD13, DD15 or DD16 engine, the support system for the high pressure fuel line (between the fuel pump and the fuel delivery rail) may be damaged during a service repair procedure. Incorrect torque applied to the dampener "P" clip fasteners may damage the fasteners, which could allow the clips to loosen. This could result in a cracked fuel line and a diesel fuel leak. Diesel fuel leakage may ignite on a hot engine surface and cause a fire. As well, diesel fuel spilt on the roadway could endanger other road users by making the roadway unexpectedly slippery. These issues could result in property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will replace the high pressure fuel line and install a more robust fuel line support system.
Recall 20114111,412 units in Canada
Other
On certain vehicles equipped with an MBE4000 (EPA07) engine, the intake air grid heater may short circuit and fail. This could result in a vehicle fire causing property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will install an additional external relay to prevent battery connection to the grid heater when the vehicle is not running and when grid heater control signal is absent.
Recall 20113671,457 units in Canada
Steering
On certain trucks equipped with a rack & pinion steering system, the lower pinion bearing may corrode and fail. As a result, the vehicle may require additional steering input while driving in a straight line. This could also cause a loss of steering power assist. These issues could ultimately result in property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will inspect the rack and pinion gear assembly. If it passes the inspection, new bellows will be installed and grease added to the bottom pinion bearing. A steering gear that fails the inspection will be replaced.
Recall 20113461,027 units in Canada
Other
On certain vehicles, specific operating conditions (such as tight, successive, highly banked curves in opposite directions), could trigger unintended Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system intervention. As a result, the ESC may unnecessarily apply one of the front brakes in order to correct the perceived oversteer condition. This may cause the vehicle to deviate from the intended path, thereby increasing the risk of a crash causing property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will replace the ESC module.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Ocotillo, CAFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
THIS IS A FOLLOW-ON TO NHTSA COMPLAINT # 10525935 WHICH YOU CAN READ IN THE RECORD.......SINCE MAKING THAT FILING EVERY ENTITY CONNECTED WITH THIS COMPLAINT HAS EITHER DENIED RESPONSIBILITY OR IGNORED RESPONSE TO FINANCIAL CLAIMS. THE MANUFACTURER, THROUGH CORPORATE COUNCIL HAVE DENIED RESPONSIBILITY AS "THERE WAS NO INVESTIGATION" CONDUCTED. IN FACT THE MANUFACTURER CONDUCTED AN INVESTIGATION IN EARLY 2013 AT THE SITE WHERE THE REMAINS OF THE TRACTOR ARE STORED. THEY DID THIS WITH THE COOPERATION OF THE FIRE INVESTIGATOR WHO REPORTED THAT DURING THIS INVESTIGATION HE NOTED RETAINING BOLTS MISSING ON THE FUEL DELIVERY SYSTEM. MANUFACTURER CORPORATE COUNCIL ALSO CLAIMED THAT SINCE LESSER LEASING COMPANY PRESENTED THE VEHICLE FOR RE-LEASE WITHOUT DISCLOSING THAT IT HAD BEEN IN A COLLISION OUTBOARD OF THE FUELS CONTROL COMPONENTS (MANUFACTURER CLAIMED) THAT "THE PROBLEM IN SUCH INSTANCES WERE ALWAYS RELATED TO UNREPORTED COLLISIONS ". IN OTHER WORDS "NOT OUR PROBLEM". THE LEASING COMPANY MADE TOKEN PAYMENT ON THE CLAIMS MADE; SOUGHT AND RECEIVED REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE INSURANCE DEDUCTIBLES FROM THE FREIGHTLINER DEALER WHO SOLD THE VEHICLE AND TRANSFERRED THOSE PAYMENTS TO THE LEASEHOLDER WITH AN EMPTY "CALL US IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH OUR INSURANCE COMPANY (THEY ARE SELF INSURED) . INSURER HAS SINCE DECLINED RESPONSE TO LEASEHOLDER CALLS FOR ASSISTANCE WITH THEIR INSURANCE CARRIER/PROCESSOR SAYING THAT THERE WAS NO COVERAGE FOR PERSONAL PROPERTY. THIS, IN SPITE OF THE FACT THAT THE CLAIMS WERE NOT FOR PERSONAL PROPERTY BUT FOR LOST REVENUE AND REPLACEMENT COSTS. THE POINT HERE IS NOT TO ATTEMPT TO HAVE NHTSA CONDUCT DISCOVERY BUT, IN THE SITUATION WHERE MANUFACTURER IS CLAIMING THAT NO INVESTIGATION WAS CONDUCTED, AND THAT THEY HAD CONDUCTED SAME, THAT NHTSA HAS EVERY OPPORTUNITY TO DO THE SAME JUST A MANUFACTURER DID THEMSELVES THIS YEAR.
NHTSA complaint #10546854 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 316,000 milesOcotillo, CAFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I AM AN INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR TO CR ENGLAND. WHILE SOUTHBOUND ON I-77 TOLL ROAD 000.2 MILES SSW OF GALLAGHER WV APPROX. 20:54:00HRS I SMELLED HEAVY EXHAUST GASSES WHEN PAUSED BACK AT THE TOLL BOOTH. I ATTRIBUTED THIS TO A VEHICLE IN FRONT THAT WAS OUT OF TUNE AND CONTINUED SOUTH. THE ODOR DID NOT GO AWAY SO I PULLED OVER TO THE HARD SHOULDER TO INVESTIGATE. AS I MOVED INTO THE SHOULDER THE DASH LIGHTS LIT UP AND FLASHED. I APPLIED THE BRAKES AND OPENED THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR TO CHECK THE CRACKLING NOISE COMING FROM BEHIND THE FIREWALL. SMOKE AND FLAMES WERE COMING FROM BENEATH THE BODY BETWEEN THE DRIVER SIDE FUEL TANK AND DOOR. I IMMEDIATELY CLOSED THE DOOR, SHOUTED TO MY SLEEPING STUDENT TO GET OUT WE ARE ON FIRE. HE BEGAN TO GATHER HIS THINGS BUT I TOLD HIM TO GET OUT NOW WHICH HE DID IN HIS UNDERWEAR AND A BLANKET. I FOLLOWED HIM OUT THE PASSENGER DOOR, PAUSED AND REACHED IN TO GET MY PHONE. I LOOKED UP AND SAW BILLOWING BLACK SMOKE FILLING THE TOP OF THE CAB SPACE AND DESCENDING DOWN RAPIDLY. WE WALKED TO THE END OF THE 53 FT TRAILER AND 10 MORE FEET ON THE PASSENGER FUEL TANK EXPLODED AND THE REST OF BOTH VEHICLES QUICKLY WERE ENGULFED AND LOST. NO BODY COULD EXPLAIN WHY THIS HAPPENED UNTIL I BECAME AWARE OF THE RECALL 12C (?), APRIL 2013, ON THE FUEL FEED ASSEMBLY FROM THE FUEL PUMP THROUGH TO THE INJECTORS VIA THE INDIVIDUAL INJECTOR LINES. I ASSUME THAT THESE WERE OVER-TIGHTENED EITHER IN ASSEMBLY IN SALTILLO, MX OR, IN SERVICE OR OTHERWISE AT COMPANY SHOP OR DURING CONTRACT SERVICE. THESE LINES WERE RUPTURED AT THAT TIME AND OVER TIME RELEASED FUEL ONTO THE BACK OF THE MOTOR. WHAT I HAD SMELLED WAS THE LIQUID FUEL HEATING ,EVAPORATING AND REACHING FLASH POINT. ONCE I STOPPED THE BLOW BY CEASED AND THE POOLED FUEL FLASHED. I INCURRED A FIVE FIGURE LOSS IN ADDITION TO THE VEHICLES. WHERE SHOULD I SEND MY CLAIM? CRE HAS THE VIN #
NHTSA complaint #10525935 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 250,633 milesCranbrook, BC. Canada, 00Fire
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
I HAVE A 2009 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA EQUIPPED WITH AIR DISC BRAKES, WHEN THE TRUCK WAS APPROX. 6 WEEKS OLD A BRAKE ASSEMBLY DID NOT RELEASE PROPERLY AND CAUGHT FIRE WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY. TRUCK IS NOW A YEAR OLD AND A SECOND BRAKE ASSEMBLY HAS CAUGHT FIRE FOR NO REASON.
NHTSA complaint #10295203 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Browns Summit, NC
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING INSPECTED AT TRIAD FREIGHTLINER OF GREENSBORO (LOCATED AT 6420 BURNT POPLAR RD, GREENSBORO, NC 27409, (336) 668-0911), THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE HEADLIGHTS FAILED BECAUSE THE SIGNAL ACQUISITION MODULE GOT WET AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AND REPROGRAMMED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE DEALER INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V127000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM), BUT THE REPAIR DID NOT CORRECT THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,011,997. *DT
NHTSA complaint #11191455 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Browns Summit, NC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING INSPECTED AT TRIAD FREIGHTLINER OF GREENSBORO (LOCATED AT 6420 BURNT POPLAR RD, GREENSBORO, NC 27409, (336) 668-0911), THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE HEADLIGHTS FAILED BECAUSE THE SIGNAL ACQUISITION MODULE GOT WET AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AND REPROGRAMMED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE DEALER INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V127000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM), BUT THE REPAIR DID NOT CORRECT THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,011,997. *DT
NHTSA complaint #11191455 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Palm BAY, FL
STEERING
FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA 2009 STERING RACK AND PINION PROBLEM. FREIGHTLINER DEALER A REDY FIXED TWICE, AND AGAIN START THE PROBLEM,THAT'S MEANS HAVE TO BE HAVE A REPLAYS AGAIN,JUST DELETE COMPANY CLOSE THE RECALL. DRIVING WITH THIS PROBLEM IS VERY DENGER SPECIALY IN WORK ZONE WITH NOT EVEN LANE.I DO SPENT A LOT MONEY FOR ALIGNMENT AND OTHER PARTS . THIS HAVE TO BE A LAW FOR RECALL. IF PROBLEM STILL COMING AGAIN AND AGAIN DEALER HAVE TO THE FIX.
NHTSA complaint #10893625 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Palm BAY, FL
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA 2009 STERING RACK AND PINION PROBLEM. FREIGHTLINER DEALER A REDY FIXED TWICE, AND AGAIN START THE PROBLEM,THAT'S MEANS HAVE TO BE HAVE A REPLAYS AGAIN,JUST DELETE COMPANY CLOSE THE RECALL. DRIVING WITH THIS PROBLEM IS VERY DENGER SPECIALY IN WORK ZONE WITH NOT EVEN LANE.I DO SPENT A LOT MONEY FOR ALIGNMENT AND OTHER PARTS . THIS HAVE TO BE A LAW FOR RECALL. IF PROBLEM STILL COMING AGAIN AND AGAIN DEALER HAVE TO THE FIX.
NHTSA complaint #10893625 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Palm BAY, FL
STEERING
STEERING COLUMN IS A PROBLEM. TRUCK DO NOT STAY IN THE ROAD STREIGHT.FOR MEN TIMES IN THE SHOP AND COUPLE ALIGNMENT, TRUCK HAS PROBLEM. VERY DENGER TO DRIVE. ELECTRICAL MIRRORS HEATED PROBLEM. WIRE AND EVERYTHING ELSE IT'S OK JUST NO POWER GO TO SWITCH. ELECTRIC CAN'T FIGEROUT WHAT'S IS HAPPENING.
NHTSA complaint #10853400 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Palm BAY, FL
SUSPENSION
STEERING COLUMN IS A PROBLEM. TRUCK DO NOT STAY IN THE ROAD STREIGHT.FOR MEN TIMES IN THE SHOP AND COUPLE ALIGNMENT, TRUCK HAS PROBLEM. VERY DENGER TO DRIVE. ELECTRICAL MIRRORS HEATED PROBLEM. WIRE AND EVERYTHING ELSE IT'S OK JUST NO POWER GO TO SWITCH. ELECTRIC CAN'T FIGEROUT WHAT'S IS HAPPENING.
NHTSA complaint #10853400 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Palm BAY, FL
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
STEERING COLUMN IS A PROBLEM. TRUCK DO NOT STAY IN THE ROAD STREIGHT.FOR MEN TIMES IN THE SHOP AND COUPLE ALIGNMENT, TRUCK HAS PROBLEM. VERY DENGER TO DRIVE. ELECTRICAL MIRRORS HEATED PROBLEM. WIRE AND EVERYTHING ELSE IT'S OK JUST NO POWER GO TO SWITCH. ELECTRIC CAN'T FIGEROUT WHAT'S IS HAPPENING.
NHTSA complaint #10853400 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lancaster, TX
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE RIGHT TURN WAS ACTIVATED AND FAILED TO DEACTIVATE. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT SIGNAL LIGHT WOULD BE COME INOPERABLE INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE SAM CAB FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE FAILURE WAS PERSISTENT.THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V127000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNAVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #10780487 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 307,000 milesGrand Prairie, TX
STEERING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA. WHILE MAKING A LEFT OR RIGHT TURN, THE VEHICLE WOULD HESITATE TO MAKE THE TURN AND THERE WAS A CLICKING NOISE PRESENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE RACK AND PINION WAS CORRODED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 11V514000 (STEERING) AND 09V357000 (STEERING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 307,000.
NHTSA complaint #10775385 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Biloxi, MS
STEERING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA TRACTOR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL SHOOK VIOLENTLY AND THE RACK AND PINION DETERIORATED AND FRACTURED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 11V514000 (STEERING) AND 09V357000 (STEERING). THE FAILURE RECURRED WITHIN LESS THAN THIRTY DAYS. WHEN DRIVING OVER 50 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL SHOOK VIOLENTLY AND THE CONTACT HAD TO APPLY FORCE TO STEER THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR FURTHER INSPECTION AND DIAGNOSIS. THE TWO RECALL REPAIRS DID NOT REMEDY THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS INVALID. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE. ...UPDATED 03-11-15 *BF UPDATED 9/21/2017
NHTSA complaint #10683154 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 488,541 milesWhitakers, NC
STEERING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE TRAVELING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE STEERING SUDDENLY FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS FOUND THAT THE TIE ROD END HAD FAILED. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER 09V357000 (STEERING). THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 488,541.
NHTSA complaint #10573243 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Ocotillo, CAFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
THIS IS A FOLLOW-ON TO NHTSA COMPLAINT # 10525935 WHICH YOU CAN READ IN THE RECORD.......SINCE MAKING THAT FILING EVERY ENTITY CONNECTED WITH THIS COMPLAINT HAS EITHER DENIED RESPONSIBILITY OR IGNORED RESPONSE TO FINANCIAL CLAIMS. THE MANUFACTURER, THROUGH CORPORATE COUNCIL HAVE DENIED RESPONSIBILITY AS "THERE WAS NO INVESTIGATION" CONDUCTED. IN FACT THE MANUFACTURER CONDUCTED AN INVESTIGATION IN EARLY 2013 AT THE SITE WHERE THE REMAINS OF THE TRACTOR ARE STORED. THEY DID THIS WITH THE COOPERATION OF THE FIRE INVESTIGATOR WHO REPORTED THAT DURING THIS INVESTIGATION HE NOTED RETAINING BOLTS MISSING ON THE FUEL DELIVERY SYSTEM. MANUFACTURER CORPORATE COUNCIL ALSO CLAIMED THAT SINCE LESSER LEASING COMPANY PRESENTED THE VEHICLE FOR RE-LEASE WITHOUT DISCLOSING THAT IT HAD BEEN IN A COLLISION OUTBOARD OF THE FUELS CONTROL COMPONENTS (MANUFACTURER CLAIMED) THAT "THE PROBLEM IN SUCH INSTANCES WERE ALWAYS RELATED TO UNREPORTED COLLISIONS ". IN OTHER WORDS "NOT OUR PROBLEM". THE LEASING COMPANY MADE TOKEN PAYMENT ON THE CLAIMS MADE; SOUGHT AND RECEIVED REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE INSURANCE DEDUCTIBLES FROM THE FREIGHTLINER DEALER WHO SOLD THE VEHICLE AND TRANSFERRED THOSE PAYMENTS TO THE LEASEHOLDER WITH AN EMPTY "CALL US IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH OUR INSURANCE COMPANY (THEY ARE SELF INSURED) . INSURER HAS SINCE DECLINED RESPONSE TO LEASEHOLDER CALLS FOR ASSISTANCE WITH THEIR INSURANCE CARRIER/PROCESSOR SAYING THAT THERE WAS NO COVERAGE FOR PERSONAL PROPERTY. THIS, IN SPITE OF THE FACT THAT THE CLAIMS WERE NOT FOR PERSONAL PROPERTY BUT FOR LOST REVENUE AND REPLACEMENT COSTS. THE POINT HERE IS NOT TO ATTEMPT TO HAVE NHTSA CONDUCT DISCOVERY BUT, IN THE SITUATION WHERE MANUFACTURER IS CLAIMING THAT NO INVESTIGATION WAS CONDUCTED, AND THAT THEY HAD CONDUCTED SAME, THAT NHTSA HAS EVERY OPPORTUNITY TO DO THE SAME JUST A MANUFACTURER DID THEMSELVES THIS YEAR.
NHTSA complaint #10546854 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 316,000 milesOcotillo, CAFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I AM AN INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR TO CR ENGLAND. WHILE SOUTHBOUND ON I-77 TOLL ROAD 000.2 MILES SSW OF GALLAGHER WV APPROX. 20:54:00HRS I SMELLED HEAVY EXHAUST GASSES WHEN PAUSED BACK AT THE TOLL BOOTH. I ATTRIBUTED THIS TO A VEHICLE IN FRONT THAT WAS OUT OF TUNE AND CONTINUED SOUTH. THE ODOR DID NOT GO AWAY SO I PULLED OVER TO THE HARD SHOULDER TO INVESTIGATE. AS I MOVED INTO THE SHOULDER THE DASH LIGHTS LIT UP AND FLASHED. I APPLIED THE BRAKES AND OPENED THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR TO CHECK THE CRACKLING NOISE COMING FROM BEHIND THE FIREWALL. SMOKE AND FLAMES WERE COMING FROM BENEATH THE BODY BETWEEN THE DRIVER SIDE FUEL TANK AND DOOR. I IMMEDIATELY CLOSED THE DOOR, SHOUTED TO MY SLEEPING STUDENT TO GET OUT WE ARE ON FIRE. HE BEGAN TO GATHER HIS THINGS BUT I TOLD HIM TO GET OUT NOW WHICH HE DID IN HIS UNDERWEAR AND A BLANKET. I FOLLOWED HIM OUT THE PASSENGER DOOR, PAUSED AND REACHED IN TO GET MY PHONE. I LOOKED UP AND SAW BILLOWING BLACK SMOKE FILLING THE TOP OF THE CAB SPACE AND DESCENDING DOWN RAPIDLY. WE WALKED TO THE END OF THE 53 FT TRAILER AND 10 MORE FEET ON THE PASSENGER FUEL TANK EXPLODED AND THE REST OF BOTH VEHICLES QUICKLY WERE ENGULFED AND LOST. NO BODY COULD EXPLAIN WHY THIS HAPPENED UNTIL I BECAME AWARE OF THE RECALL 12C (?), APRIL 2013, ON THE FUEL FEED ASSEMBLY FROM THE FUEL PUMP THROUGH TO THE INJECTORS VIA THE INDIVIDUAL INJECTOR LINES. I ASSUME THAT THESE WERE OVER-TIGHTENED EITHER IN ASSEMBLY IN SALTILLO, MX OR, IN SERVICE OR OTHERWISE AT COMPANY SHOP OR DURING CONTRACT SERVICE. THESE LINES WERE RUPTURED AT THAT TIME AND OVER TIME RELEASED FUEL ONTO THE BACK OF THE MOTOR. WHAT I HAD SMELLED WAS THE LIQUID FUEL HEATING ,EVAPORATING AND REACHING FLASH POINT. ONCE I STOPPED THE BLOW BY CEASED AND THE POOLED FUEL FLASHED. I INCURRED A FIVE FIGURE LOSS IN ADDITION TO THE VEHICLES. WHERE SHOULD I SEND MY CLAIM? CRE HAS THE VIN #
NHTSA complaint #10525935 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 420,000 milesGooding, ID
POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT SHIFT GEARS. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER FOR A DIAGNOSIS. THE DEALER STATED THAT THEY NEEDED TO REPLACE THE GEAR SHIFT LEVER. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT THE FAILURE CONTINUED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 420,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 440,000. ...UPDATED 07/19/12 *BF THE CONSUMER STATED THE FAILRE WAS DU TO THE GREASE FITTINGS BEING LEFT LOOSE DURING THE MANUFACTURING OF THE TRUCK. WHICH COULD CAUE A FIRE IN THE CLUTCH ASSEMLY. THE CONSUMER STATED SIX CLUTCHES HAVE BEEN REPLACED IN OTHER TRUCKS. UPDATED 07/23/12
NHTSA complaint #10458818 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 324,000 milesLakeland, MN
STEERING
TIE ROD FELL OUT OF THE RACK AND PINION. TRUCK COULD NOT BE STEERED. I OWN 10 OF THESE TRUCKS AND THIS FAILURE HAS HAPPENED TO 2 OF THEM SO FAR, THE LOCAL DEALER RIVERSTATES FREIGHTLINER IN WISCONSIN SEEMS TO BE TURNING A BLIND EYE TO THE ISSUE.
NHTSA complaint #10441309 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 130,272 milesHoricon, WI
STEERING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO ADVISED THAT THE RACK AND PINION STEERING WAS DEFECTIVE AND REQUIRED REPLACEMENT. IN FEBRUARY OF 2010, THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 09V357000 (STEERING:RACK AND PINION) HOWEVER, THE MALFUNCTION RECURRED DUE TO THE REMEDY REPAIR FAILING TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED A SECOND TIME FOR THE SAME FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,272. THE CONSUMER STATED THERE WAS A BINDING NOISE COMING FROM THE STEERING WHEN MAKE A LEFT TURN. UPDATED 03/13/12
NHTSA complaint #10428750 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 130,272 milesHoricon, WI
STEERING:RACK AND PINION
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO ADVISED THAT THE RACK AND PINION STEERING WAS DEFECTIVE AND REQUIRED REPLACEMENT. IN FEBRUARY OF 2010, THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 09V357000 (STEERING:RACK AND PINION) HOWEVER, THE MALFUNCTION RECURRED DUE TO THE REMEDY REPAIR FAILING TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED A SECOND TIME FOR THE SAME FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,272. THE CONSUMER STATED THERE WAS A BINDING NOISE COMING FROM THE STEERING WHEN MAKE A LEFT TURN. UPDATED 03/13/12
NHTSA complaint #10428750 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Carmichaels, PA
TIRES
2009 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA, UNIT 1 WAS WESTBOUND ON IR80 IN THE RIGHT LANE. THE LEFT STEER TIRE BLEW, CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE LEFT FRONT AND THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. *BF ACCORDING TO THE POLICE REPORT, ALL OF THE TIRES WERE IN GOOD CONDITION, INCLUDING THE TIRE THAT SHREDDED. THE OFFICER BELIEVED THE TIRE FAILURE WAS DUE TO HEAT BUILD-UP. (OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT # 10-0215-90)*JB UPDATED 05/11/11* BF
NHTSA complaint #10398957 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 300,000 milesHermiston, OR
STEERING
RACK AND PINION STEERING LOCKING ON TRUCKS WHILE GOING DOWN THE ROAD,I HAVE 4 TRUCKS ALL WITH RACK AND PINION STEERING, THEY ARE LOCKING UP SO DRIVERS CAN NOT TURN OR STEER THEM.
NHTSA complaint #10383015 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 150,000 milesCream Ridge, NJ
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
IT APPEARS THAT A LEAK IN THE WINDSHIELD HAS CAUSED THE COMPUTER/ELECTRONICS TO GO HAYWIRE WHILE DRIVING IN A RAIN STORM. WIPERS WOULD STOP WORKING, ENGINE SHUT DOWN LIGHTS WOULD COME ON AND OFF, WINDSHIELD WASHERS JUST STARTED SHOOTING FLUID ONTO THE WINDSHIELD, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND DIDN'T GO OFF. SEVERAL OTHER ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS STOPPED WORKING. THE COMPUTER AND FUSE BLOCK WAS REPLACED. PRIOR TO THE MAJOR PROBLEMS THEY TRIED TO REPAIR THE LEAK 4 TIMES. THE 5TH TIME THEY THOUGHT THEY FOUND THE LEAK IN A MARKER LIGHT ABOVE THE WINDSHIELD HOWEVER THAT MAY HAVE BEEN JUST ANOTHER LEAK BECAUSE THE LEAK IS STILL THERE AFTER DRIVING IN A STORM YESTERDAY.
NHTSA complaint #10366504 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 250,633 milesCranbrook, BC. Canada, 00Fire
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
I HAVE A 2009 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA EQUIPPED WITH AIR DISC BRAKES, WHEN THE TRUCK WAS APPROX. 6 WEEKS OLD A BRAKE ASSEMBLY DID NOT RELEASE PROPERLY AND CAUGHT FIRE WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY. TRUCK IS NOW A YEAR OLD AND A SECOND BRAKE ASSEMBLY HAS CAUGHT FIRE FOR NO REASON.
NHTSA complaint #10295203 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Gardendale, AL
STEERING:RACK AND PINION
ADDENDUM ODI 10281432: I MADE A COMPLAINT ABOUT DEFECTIVE RACK AND PINIONS ON FREIGHTLINER 2009 "CASCADIA" MODELS ON AUG. 23, 2009. ON AUG. 24, 2009 ONE WAS OVERNIGHTED AT THE BEHEST OF FREIGHTLINER TO MY LEASED TO COMPANY C. R. ENGLAND, INC. WHO HAD PREVIOUSLY PURCHASED ALL AVAILABLE RACK AND PINIONS OFF THE MARKET TO "QUIETLY/ SECRETLY" REPAIR IT'S FLEET. ON AUG. 31, 2009 NHTSA BEGAN AN OFFICIAL INVESTIGATION AND C.R. ENGLAND, INC, WITH FREIGHTLINER'S HELP ISSUED IT'S OWN RECALL OF THE DEFECTIVE RACK AND PINIONS THAT SAME DATE. ON SEP. 2, 2009 I WAS Q-COMMED BY MY DM FOR CRE TO CALL HIM ASAP. I DID SO AND HE INFORMED ME THAT MY NEW RACK AND PINION WAS ALSO DEFECTIVE AND HAD TO BE REPAIRED AND TO HAVE IT DONE IN BURNS HARBOR, IN SOME 998 MILES AWAY! I WAS JUST A MILE AWAY FROM FREIGHTLINER DEALERSHIP IN CHEYENNE, WY AND HAD THE REPAIRS DONE THEIR AND I HAVE FAXED THAT PROOF TO NHTSA. ON SEP 4, 2009 CRE RETALIATED AGAINST ME BY ASSIGNING A LOAD OF SOME 850 MILES THAT DELIVERED ON SEP. 9, 2009. I WAS ALREADY DOWN SOME THREE WEEKS WAITING FOR A RACK AND PINION, WITH FIXED COSTS OF LEASE AT $762.50 PER WEEK, AND A SHORT WEEK FROM THE FRIDAY BEFORE AND NOW ANOTHER SHORT WEEK FROM POCATELLO, ID TO BURNS, HARBOR, IN AND THIS "RETALIATION" LOAD THAT WOULD NOT BE ADDED TO THE NEXT WEEKS PAY EITHER - WEEK ENDS AT MIDNIGHT ON TUESDAY!!!! IN OTHER WORDS MY FAMILY WOULD NEVER BE ALLOWED TO EAT AGAIN WITH A SUBSTANTIALLY REDUCED CONTRACT TO BE FORCED INTO EFFECT ON SEPTEMBER 21, 2009 BY CRE ON ALL OF ITS IC'S! THUS IN "LIGHT" OF THIS PLANNED RETALIATION BY CRE AGAINST ME AND MY FAMILY I WILL TERMINATE MY CONTRACT WITH CRE ON SEP. 8, 2009 BY TURNING IN THIS 2009 FREIGHTLIINER CASCADIA WITH A STILL DEFECTIVE NEW AND "REPAIRED" RACK AND PINION.
NHTSA complaint #10283052 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 52,000 milesGardendale, AL
STEERING:RACK AND PINION
I AM AN INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR FOR CR ENGLAND, INC. (TRUCKING) I LEASED A 2009 FREIGHTLINER, WHICH HAS A DEFECTIVE RACK AND PINION STEERING AS HAVE DOZENS/ HUNDREDS OF OTHERS OF THE SAME MODEL THIS YEAR! WHY HASN'T THIS MAJOR SAFETY DEFECT BEEN FORMALLY RECALLED? IS IT BECAUSE ALL OF THE DRIVERS HAVE REPORTED THE INTENSE LOSS OF FRONT TIRE RUBBER AND THE DEFECTS THUS FAR HAVE BEEN FORTUNATELY REPORTED AND REPAIRED WITHOUT A MASSIVE ROAD ACCIDENT THAT MIGHT CLAIM HUNDREDS/ THOUSANDS OF LIVES IF CARRYING HAZARDOUS MATERIALS? LOSS OF STEERING WOULD BE ABOUT THE WORST THING THAT A FULLY LOADED TRACTOR COULD HAVE GO WRONG OTHER THAN BRAKES FAILING IN A SUBURB SETTING. IN ADDITION, NO RACK AND PINIONS ARE AVAILABLE TO REPLACE MINE ANYWHERE, ACCORDING TO MY DEALERSHIP LOCATED ON DANIEL PAYNE DRIVE IN B'HAM, AL., BECAUSE OF THE NUMEROUS ONES ALREADY REPLACED HAS COMPLETELY DEPLETED THE AVAILABLE STOCK! MAYBE ONE OF YOUR LOVED ONES WILL NOT BE KILLED BY THIS HEINOUS DEFECT. *TR THE CONSUMER REFERENCED RECALL # 03V357000. UPDATED 04/07/10.
NHTSA complaint #10281432 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 950 milesCream Ridge, NJ
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
IT APPEARS THAT THE CRUISE CONTROL ON MY TRUCK DOES NOT WORK WHEN THE HEADLIGHTS, WIPERS OR FLASHERS ARE ON. THERE ARE NO WARNINGS, NOTICES, STICKERS OR DOCUMENTATION THAT CAME WITH THE TRUCK ADVISING THAT THIS WOULD OCCUR. IT'S MY UNDERSTANDING THAT THIS IS A SAFETY FEATURE INCORPORATED INTO ALL NEW FREIGHTLINER TRUCKS BUT THEY NEGLECT TO TELL YOU BEFORE OR AFTER GETTING ONE. 2 OCCURRENCES WHEN I WAS TAKEN BY SURPRISE THAT THE CRUISE CONTROL STOPPED WORKING WHEN USING THE FLASHERS AND WIPERS. FIRST: THIS CRUISE CONTROL ISSUE ALMOST GOT ME KILLED WHEN I WENT TO ACKNOWLEDGE ANOTHER DRIVER WHO FLASHED HIS LIGHTS TO LET ME BACK INTO THE RIGHT LANE AFTER PASSING HIM. I USED THE FOUR WAY FLASHER TO THANK HIM HOWEVER WHEN I DID THE TRUCKS CRUISE CONTROL STOPPED WORKING AND THE ENGINE BRAKE SLOWED ME DOWN AND THE DRIVER THAT HAD JUST LET ME IN FRONT OF HIM ALMOST RAN INTO THE BACK OF THE TRUCK. SECOND: IT OCCURRED AGAIN WHEN AFTER A SNOW STORM AND THE ROADS WERE DRY BUT SNOW HAD BEEN MELTING SO THERE WERE SPOTS ON THE ROADWAY THAT WERE WET AND WHEN A VEHICLE PASSED ME WATER WOULD SPLASH UP ON THE WINDSHIELD AND I USED THE WIPER TO CLEAR UP THE WINDSHIELD AND AGAIN THE CRUISE CONTROL STOPPED WORKING AND AGAIN I SLOWED DOWN ALTHOUGH THIS TIME THERE WAS NO ONE THAT CLOSE BEHIND ME. BUT IT DID TAKE ME BY SURPRISE AND I LOST MY CONCENTRATION OF DRIVING TRYING TO SEE WHAT HAD HAPPEN.
NHTSA complaint #10257781 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.