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Vehicle safety record

2012 Freightliner Cascadia Problems, complaints & recalls

Owners have filed 17 complaints about the 2012 Freightliner Cascadia with NHTSA, most often about the electrical system (11) and the engine & cooling (4). Those complaints describe 1 crash, 3 fires and 1 injury. It is covered by 19 recalls, the latest in April 2020 for the exterior lighting. For comparison, the 2011 has 12 and the 2013 has 7.

NHTSA data checked

CAbout as many problems as a typical Cascadia year, for its age

#178 most complained-about 2012 vehicle

Complaints
17
Recalls
19
Crashes
1
Fires
3
Injuries
1
Deaths
0

Most common 2012 Freightliner Cascadia problems

Share of all 17 complaints. One complaint can name more than one area. Tap an area for its complaints and recalls.

2012 Freightliner Cascadia recalls 19

Recall repairs are free. Your dealer fixes them whether or not you bought the car there - check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see if yours is done. What to do

Exterior lighting

20V21400063,175 vehicles affected

The problem
Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2006-2020 Freightliner Columbia, 2006-2021 Freightliner Business Class M2, 2007-2020 Freightliner Coronado, 2014-2021 Freightliner 122 SD, 2007 Sterling A 9500, 2006 Freightliner Argosy, 2006-2007 Sterling AT9500, 2008-2021 Freightliner Cascadia, 2006-2008 Freightliner Classic, 2006-2011 Freightliner Century Class, 2006-2010 Freightliner FLD, and 2017 Western Star 5700 vehicles. The rear reflective tape may be partially covered by the mudflap hanger bracket, which may reduce the vehicle's visibility to other drivers on the road. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
The risk
The vehicle's rearward visibility may be reduced, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and reposition the reflective tape to ensure that it is completely visible, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 29, 2020. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL848.

Steering: tie rod assembly

18V5030001,256 vehicles affected

The problem
Daimler Trucks North America, LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2012-2015 Freightliner Cascadia, Coronado, Business Class M2, 114SD, and Western Star 4900 trucks. In certain front axle, brake lining, and brake spider combinations, braking may cause high vibrations, resulting in early failure of the tie-rod tube.
The risk
A tie-rod failure would cause a disconnect between the front wheels, resulting in a loss of steering ability, thereby increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake linings, brake spider, and tie-rod, free of charge. The recall began March 22, 2019. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL782.

Equipment

17V81000024,860 vehicles affected

The problem
Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2002-2017 Freightliner Cascadia, Century Class, Columbia and Coronado trucks and Western Star 4700, 4900, 5700, 5900 and 6900 trucks. These vehicles are equipped with Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers that may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or excessive force may be needed to activate the extinguisher. Additionally, in certain models, the nozzle may detach from the valve assembly with enough force that it could cause injury and also render the product inoperable. For a full list of the affected fire extinguisher models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17E062-5427.pdf
The risk
In the event of a fire, if the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury.
The fix
DTNA will notify owners, and instruct them to contact Kidde for a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. The recall began on April 11, 2018. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712, or contact Kidde customer service toll-free at 1-855-262-3540, or online at www.kidde.com and click on "Product Safety Recall" for more information. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-759.

Exterior lighting: brake lights

17V761000438,255 vehicles affected

The problem
Daimler Trucks North America, LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2008-2018 Freightliner Cascadia, Western Star 4700, 4900, 5700, and 6900 trucks. After hard brake applications, the brake light pressure switch may not activate the brake lights with a light application of the brake pedal.
The risk
If the brake lights fail to illuminate, there would not be a signal to other motorists that the vehicle is slowing, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles, free of charge. Daimler issued interim notifications to owners on January 22, 2018. The recall began on May 9, 2018. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-756.

Trailer hitches: fifth wheel assembly

15V6160005,801 vehicles affected

The problem
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.
The risk
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.
The fix
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.
The problem
Daimler Trucks of North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain model year 2011-2015 Freightliner Cascadia and M2 trucks manufactured June 2, 2011 to October 23, 2014. The vehicles are not in compliance with the requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards No. 303, "Fuel System Integrity Of Compressed Natural Gas Vehicles." Specifically, the tail pipe on these vehicles terminates under the compressed natural gas (CNG) tank and can overheat the fuel system.
The risk
Due to the area of its placement, the exhaust system forces heat around, and may overheat, the fuel system components, increasing the risk of a vehicle fire.
The fix
DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will extend the tailpipe beyond the cabinet, free of charge. The recall began Feburary 12, 2015. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-745-8000. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-671.

Engine

14V0800003,258 vehicles affected

The problem
Daimler Trucks North America LLC (Daimler) is recalling certain model year 2008-2015 Freightliner 114SD, Cascadia, M2 Business Class, Sterling LT8500, and Thomas Built Buses Saf-T-Liner HDX vehicles manufactured February 19, 2008, through February 11, 2014, and equipped with Cummins Westport Model ISL G and Cummins Westport Model ISX12 G engines. Condensation in the intake manifold may freeze during cold weather conditions and interfere with the proper operation of the intake manifold pressure sensor.
The risk
The sensor malfunction could induce elevated exhaust temperatures or flames from the exhaust pipe, increasing the risk of a vehicle fire or burn injury to a person near the exhaust pipe.
The fix
Cummins and Cummins Westport will notify owners, and authorized Cummins service facilities will upload a new ECM calibration, free of charge. The recall began on April 12, 2014. Customers may contact Daimler at 1-800-385-4357 or Cummins Inc. at 1-800-343-7357. Daimler's number for this recall is FL-660.

Electrical system: software

13V12700050 vehicles affected

The problem
Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 Cascadia and Coronado vehicles manufactured between November 21, 2011, and April 3, 2013. In the affected vehicles, when the ignition is off and the door is opened without the parking brake applied, the dashboard does not display the correct message of "Park Brake Off Door Open."
The risk
Without the proper warning, a driver may not be reminded to apply the parking brake which may lead to a vehicle roll away, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will update then display software. The safety recall began on June 6, 2013. Owners may contact DTNA at 1-800-547-0712. Daimler's recall campaign number is FL-642.

Exterior lighting

13V09900052,376 vehicles affected

The problem
Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 Freightliner Cascadia tractors manufactured from April 12, 1210, through March 2, 2013, and equipped with a SAMCAB software version 6.2. On vehicles configured to have the turn signals operate as Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) and the 'Turn-Tip' turn signal function activated, the DRLs may not illuminate properly after using the 'Turn-Tip' function while driving.
The risk
Failure of the DRLs to illuminate reduces visibility to other drivers and increases the risk of a vehicle crash.
The fix
DTNA sent notification to owners on May 6, 2015, instructing them to contact their dealers and arrange to have the free SAMCAB software updated to correct the operation of the DRLs and "Turn Tip" feature. Owners may contact DTNA at 1-800-547-0712.

Equipment

12V601000515 vehicles affected

The problem
Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) is recalling certain model year 2012 Cascadia and Coronado tractor trailers manufactured from August 1, 2011, through December 30, 2011, equipped with Thermo King TriPac Auxiliary Power Units (APU), serial numbers 3000106335 to 3000127584, manufactured from July 29, 2011, through November 7, 2011. The maintenance access panel door on the bottom of the APU may dislodge and separate.
The risk
If the door separates from the APU while the vehicle is being driven, it may create a road hazard for other drivers.
The fix
DTNA will notify owners, and Thermo King dealers will inspect the APUs and replace any of the affected panel doors free of charge. The recall began February 25, 2013. Owners may contact DTNA at 1-800-547-0712.

Equipment

12V4050001,663 vehicles affected

The problem
Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) is recalling certain model year 2009-2012 Freightliner, Sterling, and Western Star vehicles manufactured from July 7, 2008, through December 15, 2011, and equipped with perpendicular air tank mounting brackets. The air tank mounting brackets may develop cracks which can lead to the air tank brackets separating from the frame rail. The air tanks may also separate from the vehicle.
The risk
Air tanks that become separated from a moving vehicle may create a road debris hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the air mounting brackets, free of charge. The recall began on December 24, 2012. Owners may contact Daimler Trucks North America toll free at 1-800-547-0712.

Service brakes: quick release valve

12V1780003,116 vehicles affected

The problem
Daimler trucks (dtna) is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 freightliner 108sd, business class m2, cascadia, coronado vehicles, equipped with a haldex quick release valve, and manufactured from february 3, 2012, through march 2, 2012. The quick release valve cover may not be correctly manufactured, allowing the cover to become separated from the valve body. If the cover separates from the valve body, the front brakes may not function.
The risk
If this condition occurs, increased vehicle stopping distance may result, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dtna will notify owners, and where necessary, the quick release valve will be replaced by dtna authorized service facilities, free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin before june 15, 2012. Owners may contact dtna at 1-800-547-0712.

Seats

12V1380005,247 vehicles affected

The problem
Daimler trucks (dtna) is recalling certain model year 2012 freightliner cascadia and western star 4900 vehicles, manufactured from december 22, 2011, through february 23, 2012. These vehicles may be equipped with certain national seat brand driver’s seats. These seat bases may have out-of-specification welds that may allow the seat to buckle unexpectedly.
The risk
An unexpected movement of the seat could affect vehicle control and visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dtna will notify owners, and affected vehicles will have replacement components installed by dtna authorized service facilities, free of charge. An interim letter was mailed to owners on may 16, 2012. The recall to perform the final remedy began on november 21, 2012. Owners may contact dtna at 1-800-547-0712.

Steering: column

12V1370001,046 vehicles affected

The problem
Daimler trucks (dtna) is recalling one 2012 cascadia and certain model year 2012 and 2013 freightliner business class m2 vehicles, and model year 2013 108sd and 114sd vehicles manufactured from january 20, 2012, through february 17, 2012. Certain property class 04 (pc04) steering wheel nuts with incompletely formed threads were supplied to dtna in lieu of the specified property class 05 nuts. The steering wheel nuts supplied may not provide the clamp load required to fully seat the steering wheel on the steering shaft when tightened to the specified torque.
The risk
A steering wheel that is not fully seated on the steering shaft may wobble and make it difficult to control the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dtna will notify owners, and affected vehicles will have a new steering wheel nut installed by dtna authorized service facilities, free of charge. The safety recall began on may 21, 2012. Owners may contact dtna at 1-800-547-0712.

Engine and engine cooling: diesel

12V074000103,437 vehicles affected

The problem
Daimler trucks (dtna) is recalling certain model year 2006-2013 freightliner, sterling, and western star vehicles, equipped with detroit diesel epa07 and epa10, dd13 and dd15/16 engines, manufactured from january 20, 2006, through february 20, 2012. The pump to rail high pressure fuel line support system used on these engines is sensitive to assembly torque and may be damaged during service work. As a result of other repairs, the line supports may loosen, potentially leading to fuel line cracking and a fuel leak.
The risk
A fuel leak could create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash. Also a fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can result in a fire.
The fix
Dtna will notify owners, and where necessary, the high pressure fuel line support system will be replaced by dtna authorized service facilities, free of charge. The safety recall began on april 27, 2012. Owners may contact dtna at 1-800-547-0712.

Electronic stability control (ESC)

11V4650004,444 vehicles affected

The problem
Daimler trucks is recalling certain model year 2006-2012 freightliner business class m2, cascadia, century, columbia, coronado and sterling a-line vehicles built with meritor wabco electronic stability control (esc) system manufactured from september 15, 2005 through september 1, 2011. Under certain road and driving conditions, vehicle body roll and road inclination characteristics may adversely affect the slip angle calculation of the electronic stability control (esc) system. This might cause the esc to perceive an over steering situation and therefore apply the outer wheel brake on the front axle until the vehicle is perceived to be stable.
The risk
If the driver is slow to react during this esc intervention, the vehicle may deviate from the intended line of travel increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Daimler trucks will notify owners, and dealers will replace the esc module with the appropriate software version as necessary, free of charge. An interim owner notification will be mailed on or about november 21, 2011. The date for availability of the final remedy is subject to validation testing and parts availability. The safety recall began on march 28, 2012. Owners may contact daimler trucks toll-free at 1-800-547-0712.

Electrical system: cables

11V33000048,170 vehicles affected

The problem
Dtna is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 freightliner; cascadia, century class, columbia, and coronado, certain model year 2008-2009 sterling; a-line and l-line and certain model year 2009-2012 western star constellation vehicles, manufactured from january 14, 2008, through june 15, 2011, built with detroit diesel 15 or 16 engines. The bolt attaching a rubber isolator to a support bracket may become loose and back out, potentially contacting an un-fused starter cable and creating a short circuit.
The risk
A short circuit between an un-fused battery cable and chassis ground could result in a vehicle fire.
The fix
Dealers will install a new bolt and isolator and repair the recreational vehicles free of charge. The safety recall began on december 21, 2011. Owners may contact dtna at 1-800-547-0712.

Trailer hitches: fifth wheel assembly

11V2890002,342 vehicles affected

The problem
Dtna is recalling certain model year 2011 business class m2, and coronado, model year 2011-2012 cascadia vehicles equipped with fontaine ultra lt fifth wheels and manufactured from april 7, 2010, through march 7, 2011. During the coupling process on vehicles equipped with pre-modification fontaine ultra lt fifth wheels, it is possible for the driver to partially close the fifth wheel lock, and if relying on a tug test (pull test), and not performing the required visual inspection, think that the fifth wheel lock is properly coupled to the trailer king pin, when in fact, it is not.
The risk
If the tractor is not fully connected to the trailer, the trailer may disengage while in use, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Fontaine notified owners in february 2011, and is handling the remedy for this campaign. Fontaine is in the process of retrofitting all affected vehicles, free of charge. Owners may contact fontaine at 1-800-874-9780 or dtna at 1-800-547-0712.

Power train: driveline

11V257000347 vehicles affected

The problem
Daimler trucks is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 freightliner cascadia, m2, and western star 4900 vehicles, manufactured from january 11, 2011, through february 21, 2011, and equipped with a meritor driveline. The tubing used to assemble the affected drivelines has a nonconforming seam weld with insufficient bonding of the material.
The risk
A tube seam weld that is not properly bonded can result in the driveline assembly fracturing along the length of the tube seam weld. The fractured tube can twist or sever. This could result in additional damage to the driveline, the vehicle to which it is attached and any additional nearby components. This may increase the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dealers will replace the drivelines free of charge. The safety recall began on june 27, 2011. Owners may contact daimler trucks at 1-800-547-0712.

What owners say

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17 complaints about the 2012 Freightliner Cascadia

Newest first, as filed with NHTSA by owners.

Other & unknownCrash1 injury

I,m a driver with a cdl driver license ,in the date of crash I'm working for this company hul,mc 101946,us dot 3145531,the person who give me this job say he is the owner and he have an active insurance for the vehicle,when the date of the crash ,he never say to me the vehicle have some problem with brakes,then that happened,now my driver license is suspended for this vehicle but I'm not the owner and I try to contact him several times and he never answer in fact he own me the job ,and the injuries ,im sent my insurance already to the flhsmv,but still suspended is my way to live my job depend of my driver license .

Filed Incident Unknown or otherNHTSA 11309638
Other & unknown

STORAGE ADRESS 979 LINDBERG LN PETALUMA CA

Filed Incident Unknown or otherNHTSA 11297153
Electrical system

Tl* the contact owns a 2012 freightliner cascadia. The contact stated that the hazard lights malfunctioned, the windshield wipers did not work, the electrical system failed, and the check engine indicator illuminated. The vehicle was taken to lou brochordt freightliner (2840 center port cir #102, pompano beach, fl 33064, (954) 545-1000), but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 662,371. *Tt *tr

Filed Incident Electrical systemNHTSA 11241759
Electrical systemLightsBrakesEngine & coolingFire

Tl* the contact owns a 2012 freightliner cascadia. While operating the vehicle, flames suddenly appeared from the passenger side headlight assembly. The driver immediately stopped the vehicle and applied water to extinguish the flames. The cause of the failure was not determined. Also, while driving, the speedometer displayed 12 mph less than the actual speed traveled. An independent mechanic diagnosed that there was a computer failure. Also, there was an engine water pump leak that produced white smoke. The...

Read the full complaint

independent mechanic replaced the gasket in the engine. In addition, there were air leaks in the braking system and the vehicle stalled on multiple occasions. The cause of the failures was not determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 650,000. The vin was unknown.

Filed Incident Electrical system · Exterior lighting · Service brakes · EngineNHTSA 11193880
Electrical systemDriver assistance

Signal detection and activation module (sam) vehicle was stationary ,i droped my trl in a doc door at amazon, then I drove about a thousand feet to park my tractor in the designated area, after parking I cut the truck off and after about 10 min I started it up then all of a sudden the lites on dashboard started blinking off and on my headlites came on and marker lites started blinking without ever turning them on. My mechnaic did extensive scanning and testing of the active fault codes that came up (results enclosed)

Filed Incident Electrical system · Electronic stability control (ESC)NHTSA 11130344
Electrical system

Cascadia 2012 constantly in and out of shop every single week since I have had this truck. Not even 5 months yet and its been in the shop and dealer every week or other week with the same problem every single time. Regen dpf is not completing and everytime I go to dealer they change one box again still problem. Dealer charges everytime which doesn't make sense because this is manufactures problem and I always have to pay for it.

Filed Incident Electrical system · Unknown or otherNHTSA 11074391
Fuel systemElectrical systemEngine & cooling

Tl* the contact owns a 2012 freightliner cascadia. The contact stated that there was a premature failure with the diesel particulate filter (dpf) system. The vehicle was diagnosed by campbell freightliner (1015 cranbury south river rd, monroe township, nj 08831, (732) 287-1500) and the dpf unit was replaced; however, the failure continued. The vehicle was inspected by more than one mechanic at the dealer, but there was no solution. The manufacturer was notified several times and was unable to provide a permanent solution. The failure mileage was not available.

Filed Incident Fuel system, diesel · Electrical system · EngineNHTSA 11074278
Electrical systemEngine & cooling

Tl* the contact owns a 2012 freightliner cascadia. The contact stated that the vehicle was not operable. In addition, the vehicle experienced a complete loss of power. The check engine and various other warning indicators illuminated. The vehicle was previously taken to an independent mechanic where the def assembly needed to replaced. The vehicle was repaired however, the failures recurred. The manufacturer was not notified and the dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 585,000.

Filed Incident Electrical system · EngineNHTSA 11020043
Other & unknown

5Th wheel locking mechanical does not lock when backing up and coupling to trailer

Filed Incident Unknown or otherNHTSA 11003818
Engine & cooling

Tl* the contact owns a 2012 freightliner cascadia. The contact stated that after stopping the vehicle, it was discovered that coolant leaked from the vehicle. Upon inspection, it was determined that the coolant reservoir had cracked. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the surge tank had failed and would need to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vin was not available. The failure mileage was 398,000. The vin was not available.

Filed Incident EngineNHTSA 10924605
Electrical system

Same cab, problem dash lights went off, lights outside flashing with vehicle moving at 70 mph took it to dealer they replace cab same which cost me $2635.35 To repair defective part dangerous problem if happen at night time because head lights don't work I hope you people do something about it very dangerous problem tanks [[redacted]] from california. ('Parts of this document have been redacted to protect personally identifiable information pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.S.C. 552(B)(6).')*Jb

Filed Incident Electrical systemNHTSA 10903504
Electrical systemFire

Tl* the contact owns a 2012 freightliner cascadia. The contact stated that there was a burning odor that emitted through the vent and under the sleeper where there was a storage compartment. The contact noticed that the harness was burned. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it diagnosed that the harness needed to be replaced to prevent an electrical shortage. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 670,000. Updated 08/22/16*lj the consumer stated there was a recall for 2016 models for the same failure; therefore, this vehicle should be included in the recall. Updated 11/30/2017*js

Filed Incident Electrical systemNHTSA 10881632
Electrical systemFire

Tl* the contact owns a 2012 freightliner cascadia. The contact stated that while driving at 25 mph, the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to restart the vehicle. In addition, the vehicle failed to start intermittently and all the warning lights on the instrument cluster illuminated. The contact also noticed a burning odor coming from the driver's side air vent. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, who diagnosed that the sam chassis needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was aware of nhtsa campaign number: 15v127000 (electrical system) however, the vin was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 583.

Filed Incident Electrical systemNHTSA 10744176
Electrical systemLights

Tl* the contact owns a 2012 freightliner cascadia. The contact stated that once the turn signals were activated and shut off, they would continue to blink. The signals would blink five times when the lever was barely touched. In addition, the daytime running lamps burned out multiple times and were replaced. The contact received a recall notice for nhtsa campaign number: 13v099000 (electrical system, exterior lighting); however, the part needed for the repair was unavailable. The manufacturer was notified. The approximate failure mileage was 426,000.

Filed Incident Electrical system · Exterior lightingNHTSA 10616901
Electrical system

Tl* the contact owns a 2012 freightliner cascadia. The contact stated that all four batteries failed. The contact also mentioned the starter previously failed and the failure may be related. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the failure was unable to be diagnosed. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 263,175.

Filed Incident Electrical systemNHTSA 10515647
Visibility & wipers

This summary was written by odi's bowman after phone interview with complainant: primary alleged issue: (1) limited front visibility due to limited area swept by wipers [odi note: see the photos in which the complainant masked the windshield with newspaper to illustrate the compromised visibility claim]. More specifically, the complainant states that the reason for the restricted area of visibility is caused by the split windshield design and that the condition is exacerbated by accumulation of hardened road...

Read the full complaint

salt, etc. Spray, typical of the environmental conditions experienced in northeastern usa winter driving; (2) other issues identified by the complainant: (a) delay in release of cruise control on application of brakes; (b) air pressure loss while driving [odi note: reportedly, the compressor maintains sufficient on-board air pressure and volume for vehicle system requirements such as braking, etal]: the complaint questions where (specifically) the air losses are occurring and whether the observed air-loss could indicate a condition that may pose a future vehicle safety concern; (c) the spray from the windshield coats the outside rear mirrors limiting side and rear visibility. ..Updated 09/24/12 *bf

Filed Incident VisibilityNHTSA 10477581
Visibility & wipers

Tl* the contact owns a 2012 freightliner cascadia. The contact stated that the rearview mirror did not allow him to see the blind spots. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure.The failure mileage was not available.

Filed Incident Visibility / wiperNHTSA 10470757

Freightliner Cascadia: every year compared

YearComplaintsRecallsCrashesFiresTop problemGrade
2016121213Engine & coolingB
2015161811Electrical systemC
2014122102Electrical systemC
201371901BrakesC
2012171913Electrical systemC
2011122310Electrical systemC
2010122311Electrical systemC
2009192403SteeringC
200882200SteeringC
All Cascadia years

2012 Freightliner Cascadia vs rivals

More sales usually means more complaints, so compare similar vehicles of the same year. The grade compares each vehicle with its own model's other years.

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Questions about the 2012 Freightliner Cascadia

Does the 2012 Freightliner Cascadia have any recalls?

Yes - NHTSA lists 19 recalls for the 2012 Freightliner Cascadia: exterior lighting (April 2020); tie rod assembly (July 2018); equipment (December 2017); brake lights (November 2017) and more. Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see whether yours has been fixed.

What are the most common problems with the 2012 Freightliner Cascadia?

By the complaints owners filed with NHTSA, the most common problem areas are the electrical system (11), engine & cooling (4), lights (2).

How many complaints has the 2012 Freightliner Cascadia had?

17 complaints have been filed with NHTSA, the first on August 15, 2012 and the latest on February 17, 2020. Of these, 1 describe a crash and 3 a fire, and together they report 1 injury and 0 deaths.

Is the 2012 Freightliner Cascadia a reliable vehicle?

Its Safety Index is 50 out of 100 (grade C: about as many problems as a typical Freightliner Cascadia year, for its age). The index weighs complaints, crashes, fires, injuries, deaths and recalls against how long the vehicle has been on the road, compared with the same model's other years. It is not a measure of every repair - read the complaints and owner experiences, and have any used vehicle inspected before you buy.

Which Freightliner Cascadia years have the most complaints?
What should I do if my 2012 Freightliner Cascadia has a problem?

If it is a safety problem, stop driving it if it is unsafe and contact your dealer. Report it to NHTSA at nhtsa.gov/report-a-safety-problem - enough reports start investigations and recalls - and share your experience here so other owners know what to look for.

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) complaints and recalls, checked . Complaints are owners' own reports and are not verified. How we use the data

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