Fuel line defect prompts recall of 4,500 Freightliner, Western Star tractors

user-gravatar Headshot
Updated Sep 27, 2018
Daimler Trucks North America has recalled approximately 4,500 2017-2019 Freightliner and Western Star tractors, while Autocar is recalling about 300 of its Xspotter terminal tractors.Daimler Trucks North America has recalled approximately 4,500 2017-2019 Freightliner and Western Star tractors, while Autocar is recalling about 300 of its Xspotter terminal tractors.

Daimler Trucks North America is recalling 4,500 Freightliner and Western Star tractors equipped with Cummins ISX15 and X15 engines for a fuel line defect. Autocar is also recalling about 300 terminal tractors with improperly welded brake pedals.

According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration documents, Daimler’s recall affects model year 2017-2019 Freightliner 122SD, Freightliner Cascadia, Freightliner Coronado and Western Star 4900 trucks.

The company says in certain driving conditions, such as on a long downhill grade, the fuel line may burst if the fuel pump cooling circuit screen is restricted. If the fuel line bursts, fuel can leak onto the road causing poor conditions, and the truck’s engine could stall without warning. Affected engines were manufactured between March 12, 2016, and Aug. 8, 2018.

Cummins will begin notifying owners of trucks with affected engines beginning Oct. 10. The remedy for the recall is still being developed, NHTSA says. Owners can contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712 with recall number FL789 or Cummins customer service at 1-800-286-6467. NHTSA’s recall number is 18V-581.

Autocar’s recall affects 297 model year 2018-2019 Xspotter terminal tractors. In these trucks, the brake pedal mounting play may be incorrectly welded, which could cause the brake pedal to disconnect.

Autocar will begin notifying affected truck owners on Sept. 27, and dealers will replace the brake pedal floor mounting plate for free. Owners can contact Autocar customer service at 1-888-218-3611 with recall number ACTT-1801. NHTSA’s recall number is 18V-558.