The problem
These vehicles have dual axle steering with a hydraulic valve which diverts power assist from one side to the other as necessary. The hydraulic valve can be contaminated causing the valve to malfunction.
The risk
If the valve fails, the driver will experience a loss of power steering assist or the inability to switch power steering assist from one side to the other. This will inhibit the driver's ability to control the vehicle.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the steering control valve and parking brake interlock for proper operation. Contaminated or malfunctioning units will be replaced.
Contacts
Freightliner recall no. Fl-245. Owner notification began may 26, 2000. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact freightliner at 1-800-1-800-547-0712. Also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
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 99V256000.
- 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.