The problem
On certain vehicles, some cotter pins may be missing at the ball joint connections of the drag link ends and tie rod ends in the lower front axle steering system. Steering joint could separate if the ball stud retaining nut loosens and falls off due to absence of cotter pin.
The fix
Steering linkage from the frame down to and including the front axle will be inspected. Cotter pins will be installed, if necessary.
Contacts
Vehicle description: heavy trucks.System: steering; drag link and tie rod ball joint ends; cotter pins.Consequences of defect: driver could experience loss of steering controlwithout warning and an accident could result.Note: if any nuts on the front axle linkage are missing, the vehicle should notbe moved.
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 dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 81V020000.
- 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.