The problem
The aluminum wheel hubs develop cracks near the inner wheel bearing, allowing loss of bearing lubricant. Consequence of defect: the hub failure and/or loss of bearing lubricant resulting in bearing freeze up could result in steering control problems, which may lead to an accident.
The fix
REPLACE THE HUBS FROM THE SUSPECT BATCH.
Contacts
System: wheel hub of front steering axle. Vehicle description: high c.O.E. Model series and long conventional model trucks equipped with model ff-971 front steering axle.
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 86V084000.
- 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.