The problem
Daimler trucks north america (dtna) is recalling certain model year 2013 freightliner, western star, freightliner custom chassis trucks, and thomas built buses manufactured from april 18, 2012, through may 11, 2012, and equipped with detroit axle-brand front axle knuckles. The front knuckles on these vehicles may have a machining error in the wheel bearing area which may lead to premature spindle failure.
The risk
If the spindle fails, the wheel may separate from the knuckle, resulting in loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dtna will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the affected components, free of charge. The safety recall began on august 10, 2012. Owners may contact daimler trucks north america toll free at 1-800-547-0712.
Contacts
Daimler trucks' recall campaign number is fl-629. Customers may also contact the national highway traffic safety administrations vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.Safercar.Gov.
What to do
- Check your VIN. Enter it at nhtsa.gov/recalls - it shows whether this recall applies to your vehicle and whether the repair has been done.
- Call a dealer. Any authorized Freightliner, Thomas Built Buses, Western Star dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 12V266000.
- Ask about parts and a loaner. If parts aren't available yet, ask what to do in the meantime.
- Keep your paperwork. If you paid for this repair before the recall, you may be able to get reimbursed - here's how.