Recalls for 2005 Freightliner Century

DEFECT #1 - STEERING:RACK AND PINION

Posted on: 2009-09-16
Description
Daimler trucks is recalling certain model year 2005 through 2010 heavy duty trucks manufactured from october 29, 2005 through july 3, 2009.  Under certain condition, the left hand inner tie rod end may loosen over time and if not corrected, potentially separate from the steering rack.

Consequence
A separated tie rod assembly can result in loss of vehicle control at higher speeds and a crash could occur.

Corrective Action
Daimler trucks will notify owners and the vehicles will be repaired free of charge.  The safety recall began on february 5, 2010.  Owners may contact daimler trucks toll-free at 1-800-547-0712.

Notes
Daimler trucks' recall campaign number fl-557.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.  

DEFECT #2 - STEERING:RACK AND PINION

Posted on: 2011-10-25
Description
Daimler trucks is recalling certain model year 2005-2011 freightliner cascadia, columbia, century, coronado, and classic xl trucks manufactured from november 1, 2004, through june 15, 2010 for the rack and pinion steering system.  The lower pinion bearing may corrode and fail.  A failed bearing may lead to damage of the spool valve seals.  A damage spool valve seal may allow hydraulic fluid to flow to the right or left turn port instead of flowing to the return port.

Consequence
The steering could unexpectedly turn left or right, making the vehicle more difficult to control and increasing the risk of a crash.

Corrective Action
Daimler trucks will inspect the lower bearing for corrosion.  If corrosion is found, the rack and pinion system will be replaced.  If no corrosion is found, on the bearing, the bearing will be packed with grease and the rubber bellows will be replaced with sealant added between the bellows and the rack housing.  An interim letter was mailed in december 2011.  Owners may contact daimler trucks toll-free at 1-800-547-0712.

Notes
Daimler trucks' safety recall number is fl-614.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov .