2007 Freightliner Columbia

Routine

Owners filed 11 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the engine. It has been recalled 27 times.

Most common 2007 Freightliner Columbia problems

4 of the 11 complaints (36%) are about the engine.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Visibility › Windshield Wiper/Washer2
000
Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Emission Control › Gas Recirculation Valve (egr Valve) · engine2
000
Visibility1
000
Trailer Hitches › Fifth Wheel Assembly · trailer hitch1
000
Structure › Body · body and frame1
000
Structure · body and frame1
000
Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine › Diesel · engine1
010
Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine · engine1
000
Electrical System1
000

27 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Exterior Lighting20V214000
Filed Apr 14, 202063,175 vehiclesDaimler Trucks North America LLC

Defect. Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2006-2020 Freightliner Columbia, 2006-2021 Freightliner Business Class M2, 2007-2020 Freightliner Coronado, 2014-2021 Freightliner 122 SD, 2007 Sterling A 9500, 2006 Freightliner Argosy, 2006-2007 Sterling AT9500, 2008-2021 Freightliner Cascadia, 2006-2008 Freightliner Classic, 2006-2011 Freightliner Century Class, 2006-2010 Freightliner FLD, and 2017 Western Star 5700 vehicles. The rear reflective tape may be partially covered by the mudflap hanger bracket, which may reduce the vehicle's visibility to other drivers on the road. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Risk. The vehicle's rearward visibility may be reduced, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and reposition the reflective tape to ensure that it is completely visible, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 29, 2020. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL848.

Service Brakes, Air › Supply › Reservoir/Tank19V370000
Filed May 14, 2019741 vehiclesDaimler Trucks North America LLC

Defect. Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2004-2019 Freightliner 108SD, 114SD, 122SD, Cascadia, Columbia, Classic, FL80, FLD 120SD, Business Class M2, Western Star 4700, 4900, 6900, Sterling Acterra, L7500, LT7500, L8500, LT8500, L9500, and LT9500 vehicles. The vehicles may have an insufficient service brake air reservoir capacity. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 121, "Air Brake Systems."

Risk. An insufficient air reservoir volume may reduce brake effectiveness, increasing the risk of crash.

Remedy. DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will add air reservoir capacity to the affected vehicles. Owner letters were mailed on November 29, 2021. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-815.

Equipment17V810000
Filed Dec 15, 201724,860 vehiclesDaimler Trucks North America LLC

Defect. Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2002-2017 Freightliner Cascadia, Century Class, Columbia and Coronado trucks and Western Star 4700, 4900, 5700, 5900 and 6900 trucks. These vehicles are equipped with Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers that may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or excessive force may be needed to activate the extinguisher. Additionally, in certain models, the nozzle may detach from the valve assembly with enough force that it could cause injury and also render the product inoperable. For a full list of the affected fire extinguisher models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17E062-5427.pdf

Risk. In the event of a fire, if the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy. DTNA will notify owners, and instruct them to contact Kidde for a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. The recall began on April 11, 2018. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712, or contact Kidde customer service toll-free at 1-855-262-3540, or online at www.kidde.com and click on "Product Safety Recall" for more information. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-759.

Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine › Diesel12V074000
Filed Feb 28, 2012103,437 vehiclesDaimler Trucks North America

Defect. DAIMLER TRUCKS (DTNA) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006-2013 FREIGHTLINER, STERLING, AND WESTERN STAR VEHICLES, EQUIPPED WITH DETROIT DIESEL EPA07 AND EPA10, DD13 AND DD15/16 ENGINES, MANUFACTURED FROM JANUARY 20, 2006, THROUGH FEBRUARY 20, 2012. THE PUMP TO RAIL HIGH PRESSURE FUEL LINE SUPPORT SYSTEM USED ON THESE ENGINES IS SENSITIVE TO ASSEMBLY TORQUE AND MAY BE DAMAGED DURING SERVICE WORK. AS A RESULT OF OTHER REPAIRS, THE LINE SUPPORTS MAY LOOSEN, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO FUEL LINE CRACKING AND A FUEL LEAK.

Risk. A FUEL LEAK COULD CREATE A ROAD HAZARD, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH. ALSO A FUEL LEAK IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.

Remedy. DTNA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND WHERE NECESSARY, THE HIGH PRESSURE FUEL LINE SUPPORT SYSTEM WILL BE REPLACED BY DTNA AUTHORIZED SERVICE FACILITIES, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 27, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DTNA AT 1-800-547-0712.

Steering › Rack and Pinion11V514000
Filed Oct 13, 20119,689 vehiclesDaimler Trucks North America

Defect. 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.

Risk. THE STEERING COULD UNEXPECTEDLY TURN LEFT OR RIGHT, MAKING THE VEHICLE MORE DIFFICULT TO CONTROL AND INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy. 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.

Fuel System, Diesel11V478000
Filed Sep 16, 201173,500 vehiclesDaimler Trucks North America

Defect. DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004 THROUGH 2008 HEAVY TRUCKS MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 11, 2003, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 28, 2007, EQUIPPED WITH EPA04 MODEL MBE4000 ENGINES BUILT WITH PLASTIC LOW PRESSURE FUEL LINES AND FUEL FILTERS MOUNTED NEAR THE CENTER OF THE ENGINE ON THE LEFT-HAND SIDE. THE PLASTIC LOW PRESSURE FUEL LINE BETWEEN ENGINE MOUNTED FUEL FILTER AND ENGINE BLOCK MAY DEVELOP A SUBSTANTIAL DIESEL FUEL LEAK.

Risk. THIS COULD CREATE A ROAD HAZARD INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH. FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.

Remedy. DAIMLER TRUCKS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND THE REMEDY WILL BE PERFORMED BY DETROIT DIESEL CORPORATION AUTHORIZED REPAIR FACILITIES. VEHICLES WILL BE INSPECTED AND THE PLASTIC LOW PRESSURE FUEL LINE WILL BE REPLACED WITH A STEEL LOW PRESSURE FUEL LINE. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. AN INTERIM LETTER WAS MAILED TO OWNERS ON OCTOBER 28, 2011. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 21, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS AT 1-800-547-0712.

Electronic Stability Control (esc)11V465000
Filed Sep 8, 20114,444 vehiclesDaimler Trucks North America

Defect. DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006-2012 FREIGHTLINER BUSINESS CLASS M2, CASCADIA, CENTURY, COLUMBIA, CORONADO AND STERLING A-LINE VEHICLES BUILT WITH MERITOR WABCO ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) SYSTEM MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 15, 2005 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 1, 2011. UNDER CERTAIN ROAD AND DRIVING CONDITIONS, VEHICLE BODY ROLL AND ROAD INCLINATION CHARACTERISTICS MAY ADVERSELY AFFECT THE SLIP ANGLE CALCULATION OF THE ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) SYSTEM. THIS MIGHT CAUSE THE ESC TO PERCEIVE AN OVER STEERING SITUATION AND THEREFORE APPLY THE OUTER WHEEL BRAKE ON THE FRONT AXLE UNTIL THE VEHICLE IS PERCEIVED TO BE STABLE.

Risk. IF THE DRIVER IS SLOW TO REACT DURING THIS ESC INTERVENTION, THE VEHICLE MAY DEVIATE FROM THE INTENDED LINE OF TRAVEL INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy. DAIMLER TRUCKS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ESC MODULE WITH THE APPROPRIATE SOFTWARE VERSION AS NECESSARY, FREE OF CHARGE. AN INTERIM OWNER NOTIFICATION WILL BE MAILED ON OR ABOUT NOVEMBER 21, 2011. THE DATE FOR AVAILABILITY OF THE FINAL REMEDY IS SUBJECT TO VALIDATION TESTING AND PARTS AVAILABILITY. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 28, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-547-0712.

Engine and Engine Cooling11V146000
Filed Mar 3, 20112,073 vehiclesDaimler Trucks North America

Defect. DAIMLER TRUCKS (DTNA) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006 THROUGH 2011 FREIGHTLINER, CASCADIA, CENTURY, COLUMBIA FLD, AND M2, STERLING 9500, AND WESTERN STAR 4900 HEAVY TRUCKS MANUFACTURED FROM MARCH 20, 2006, THROUGH JUNE 30, 2010, EQUIPPED WITH SPECIFIC MBE4000 EPA07 MODEL ENGINES. THE INTAKE AIR GRID HEATER MAY SHORT CIRCUIT AND FAIL DUE TO EXCESSIVE INTERNAL TEMPERATURES.

Risk. A SHORT CIRCUITED GRID HEATER COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE AND INJURY TO VEHICLE OCCUPANTS.

Remedy. DTNA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF THE RECALL DURING MARCH 2011. ANOTHER NOTIFICATION WILL BE ISSUED ONCE THE REMEDY IS RELEASED. DTNA EXPECTS THE REMEDY TO BE AVAILABLE BY DECEMBER 1, 2011. REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED BY DTNA DEALERS FREE OF CHARGE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DTNA TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-547-0712. THIS RECALL IS ASSCOCIATED WITH A PREVIOUS RECALL, CAMPAIGN NUMBER 10V-341.

Engine and Engine Cooling10V341000
Filed Jul 27, 20105,743 vehiclesDaimler Trucks North America

Defect. DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2007 THROUGH 2011 FREIGHTLINER, FCCC, STERLING, AND WESTERN STAR HEAVY TRUCKS MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 5, 2006, THROUGH JUNE 30, 2010, EQUIPPED WITH SPECIFIC MBE900 EPA04 AND EPA07 MODEL ENGINES. THE INTAKE AIR GRID HEATER MAY SHORT CIRCUIT AND FAIL DUE TO EXCESSIVE INTERNAL TEMPERATURES.

Risk. A SHORT CIRCUITED GRID HEATER COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE AND INJURY TO VEHICLE OCCUPANTS.

Remedy. DAIMLER TRUCKS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE BUSES FREE OF CHARGE. REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED BY DETROIT DIESEL CORPORATION AUTHORIZED REPAIR FACILITIES. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT JULY 29, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-547-0712.

Engine and Engine Cooling09V400000
Filed Oct 8, 200918,067 vehiclesDaimler Trucks North America

Defect. DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING MODEL YEAR 2007-2010 FREIGHTLINER, STERLING AND WESTERN STAR VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH DETROIT DIESEL DD15 EPA07 ENGINES WHICH WERE MANUFACTURED WITH GRID HEATERS. INCREASED INTERNAL GRID HEATER RESISTANCE CAUSED BY IMPROPERLY TIGHTENED SCREWS MAY MELT THE SOLDER ON THE GRID HEATER CIRCUIT BOARD LEADING TO A SHORT CIRCUIT.

Risk. A SHORT-CIRCUITED GRID HEATER COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE AND INJURY TO VEHICLE OCCUPANTS.

Remedy. THE ENGINE CONTROL LOGIC WILL BE REPROGRAMMED FREE OF CHARGE BY DETROIT DIESEL AUTHORIZED REPAIR FACILITIES AND DIRECT WARRANTY CUSTOMERS TO PROVIDE COLD WEATHER STARTING WITHOUT THE NEED OF A GRID HEATER. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 4, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DETROIT DIESEL AT 1-313-592-5800 AND DAIMLER TRUCKS AT 1-800-547-0712.

Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings09V391000
Filed Oct 6, 200910,185 vehiclesDaimler Trucks North America

Defect. DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006 THROUGH 2010 HEAVY TRUCKS MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JANUARY 17, 2006 AND MARCH 31, 2009, EQUIPPED WITH EPA07 MODEL MBE4000 ENGINES BUILT WITH PLASTIC LOW PRESSURE FUEL LINES. THE PLASTIC LINES MAY EXPERIENCE LEAKS DUE TO FATIGUE CRACKS CAUSED BY STRESS AND VIBRATION COMBINED WITH HIGH INTERNAL PRESSURE.

Risk. IF A DIESEL FUEL LEAK CONTINUES UNDETECTED UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS FUEL MAY IGNITE ON A HOT ENGINE SURFACE AND/OR FUEL MAY SPILL ON THE ROAD INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy. DAIMLER TRUCKS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND THE REMEDY WILL BE PERFORMED BY DETROIT DIESEL CORPORATION AUTHORIZED REPAIR FACILITIES AND DIRECT WARRANTY CUSTOMERS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 7, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS AT 1-800-547-0712.

Engine and Engine Cooling09V366000
Filed Sep 23, 200925,362 vehiclesDaimler Trucks North America

Defect. DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH CATERPILLAR C15 ENGINE. THE VARIABLE VALVE ACTUATION OIL LINE MAY RUB AGAINST THE P-CLIPS RETAINING THE OIL LINE, CAUSING AN OIL LEAK.

Risk. AN OIL LEAK MAY RESULT IN A FIRE.

Remedy. DAIMLER TRUCKS IS WORKING WITH CATERPILLAR TO REMEDY THESE VEHICLES. PLEASE SEE CATERPILLAR'S DEFECT REPORT 09E-020. CATERPILLAR WILL INSPECT AND REPAIR THE NECESSARY COMPONENTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 5, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CATERPILLAR TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-447-4986 OR DAIMLER TRUCKS AT 1-800-547-0712.

Steering › Rack and Pinion09V357000
Filed Sep 16, 20098,882 vehiclesDaimler Trucks North America

Defect. 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.

Risk. A SEPARATED TIE ROD ASSEMBLY CAN RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL AT HIGHER SPEEDS AND A CRASH COULD OCCUR.

Remedy. 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.

Fuel System, Diesel08V113000
Filed Mar 11, 200862,000 vehiclesDaimler Trucks North America

Defect. DAIMLER TRUCKS IS RECALLING 62,000 MY 2005-2007 FREIGHTLINER BUSINESS CLASS, CENTURY CLASS, COLUMBIA, CORONADO, FLD, CLASSIC, STERLING A-LINE, L-LINE, AND WESTERN STAR 4900 TRUCKS. A FRACTURED FUEL LINE COULD LEAK DIESEL FUEL.

Risk. IF A LEAK CONTINUES UNDETECTED UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, FUEL MAY IGNITE AT A HOT ENGINE SURFACE AND/OR FUEL MAY BE SPILLED ON THE ROAD SURFACE.

Remedy. HIGH PRESSURE FUEL LINES AND TRANSFER TUBES WILL BE INSPECTED AND REPLACED FREE OF CHARGED. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 9, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS AT 1-800-547-0712.

Trailer Hitches › Fifth Wheel Assembly07V530000
Filed Nov 13, 200738,000 vehiclesFreightliner LLC

Defect. ON CERTAIN TRUCK-TRACTORS EQUIPPED WITH HOLLAND SIMPLEX SE OR SE II FIFTH WHEELS, THE LATCH LEVER PIVOT BOLT ASSEMBLY MAY HAVE BEEN OVER-TIGHTENED WHICH COULD DISTORT THE PIVOT BOLT SPACER SLEEVE. CORROSION OR CONTAMINATES IN THE PIVOT MAY CAUSE IT TO BIND AND PREVENT THE FIFTH WHEEL JAW FROM LATCHING SECURELY AROUND THE TRAILER KING PIN.

Risk. THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THE FIFTH WHEEL MAY FAIL TO LATCH WITHOUT THE DRIVER'S KNOWLEDGE. WHEN THE OCCURS, THE DRIVER COULD DRIVE AWAY AND THE TRAILER COULD BECOME DISENGAGED INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE PIVOT BOLT AND SLEEVE WITH A HEX HEAD SHOULDER BOLT AND WASHER. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 3, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FREIGHTLINER AT 1-800-547-0712.

Steering › Linkages › Tie Rod Assembly07V403000
Filed Sep 6, 2007450 vehiclesFreightliner LLC

Defect. ON CERTAIN TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH RACK AND PINION STEERING, THE BALL SOCKET ASSEMBLY AT THE INNER END OF THE DRIVER SIDE TIE ROD MAY BE DAMAGED IN A SHARP TURN. EXCESSIVE TIE ROD ANGLES MAY LOOSEN THE TIE ROD IN THE BALL SOCKET OR DAMAGE THE THREADED TIE ROD SOCKET ATTACHMENT TO THE STEERING RACK ON THE DRIVER SIDE. THE THREADED END OF THE BALL SOCKET ASSEMBLY MAY FRACTURE AND SEPARATE.

Risk. A FRACTURED TIE ROD ASSEMBLY WILL MAKE THE VEHICLE MORE DIFFICULT TO CONTROL AT HIGHER SPEEDS AND A CRASH MAY OCCUR.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL CHANGE THE FRONT AXLE STEERING STOPS TO PREVENT INTERFERENCE IN THE TIE ROD BALL SOCKET ASSEMBLY AND STEERING COMPONENTS WILL BE REPLACED FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 8, 2008, AND WILL BE MAILED IN PHASES THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FREIGHTLINER AT 1-800-547-0712.

Steering › Linkages › Tie Rod Assembly07V400000
Filed Sep 5, 2007413 vehiclesFreightliner LLC

Defect. ON CERTAIN TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH RACK AND PINION STEERING, THE TIE ROD ARMS MAY HAVE BEEN INCORRECTLY INSTALLED. THE THREADED END OF THE BALL SOCKET ASSEMBLY MAY FRACTURE AND SEPARATE.

Risk. A FRACTURED TIE ROD ASSEMBLY WILL MAKE THE VEHICLE MORE DIFFICULT TO CONTROL AT HIGHER SPEEDS AND A CRASH MAY OCCUR.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT FOR INSTALLATION OF THE STEERING ARMS. STEERING COMPONENTS WILL BE REPLACED ON TRUCKS THAT HAVE INCORRECTLY INSTALLED TIE ROD ARMS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 1, 2008. OWNER MAY CONTACT FREIGHTLINER AT 1-800-547-0712.

Steering › Column07V357000
Filed Aug 13, 200742,000 vehiclesFreightliner LLC

Defect. ON CERTAIN TRUCKS BUILT WITH A TRW GLOBAL ADJUSTABLE UPPER STEERING COLUMN, TWO UPPER TILT PLATE BOLTS MAY LOOSEN WITH USE AND FALL OUT. THESE FASTENERS HOLD THE UPPER COLUMN ASSEMBLY IN PLACE. THE STEERING COLUMN PIVOT MAY FRACTURE IF THE BOLTS ARE MISSING WHEN AN EXCESSIVE FORCE IS APPLIED TO THE STEERING WHEEL.

Risk. LOSS OF STEERING WHEEL POSITION MAY CAUSE THE STEERING TO RESPOND DIFFERENTLY THAN EXPECTED. IF THIS CONDITION IS IGNORED, A CRASH MAY OCCUR.

Remedy. THE TILT PLATE BOLTS WILL BE INSPECTED AND REPLACED IF NECESSARY. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 23, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FREIGHTLINER AT 1-800-547-0712.

Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery07V335000
Filed Aug 2, 20074,299 vehiclesFreightliner LLC

Defect. ON CERTAIN TRUCKS, A MANUFACTURING ERROR IN THE FUEL-WATER SEPARATOR PREHEATER THERMOSWITCH MAY PREVENT THE FUEL PREHEATER FROM TURNING OFF IF THE IGNITION IS LEFT ON. IF THE IGNITION SWITCH IS LEFT ON WHEN FUEL IS ADDED TO THE FUEL- WATER SEPARATOR AT THE FACTORY OR DURING A FILTER ELEMENT CHANGE, A SMALL FLAME MAY OCCUR INSIDE THE FILTER COVER.

Risk. THE POTENTIAL EXISTS FOR THE FLAME TO SPREAD RESULTING IN POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FUEL FILTER DATE CODE AND THERMOSWITCH LOT CODE TO DETERMINE IF THEY CONTAIN THE SUSPECT COMPONENT FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 4, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FREIGHTLINER AT 1-800-547-0712.

Suspension › Rear07V316000
Filed Jul 24, 20071,200 vehiclesFreightliner LLC

Defect. ON CERTAIN TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH TUFTRAC REAR SUSPENSIONS, THE CENTER CASTING BRACKETS MAY BE OUT OF SPECIFICATION. AN OUT OF SQUARE CASTING MAY HAVE UNACCEPTABLE STRESS IN THE BRACKET WHEN IT IS INSTALLED AND MAY CAUSE IT TO CRACK IN SERVICE.

Risk. THE DRIVE AXLE MAY NOT BE HELD IN POSITION IF A CRACKED BRACKET FRACTURES COMPLETELY. THIS WILL AFFECT VEHICLE CONTROL AND MAY CAUSE A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND CASTINGS THAT ARE OUT OF SPECIFICATION WILL BE REPLACED FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 12, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FREIGHTLINER AT 1-800-547-0712.

Steering07V306000
Filed Jul 18, 200718,000 vehiclesFreightliner LLC

Defect. FREIGHTLINER IS RECALLING CERTAIN SCHOOL BUS CHASSIS, HEAVY TRUCKS, VAN CHASSIS, RV MOTORHOME CHASSIS MANUFACTURED FROM JANUARY 5 TO MAY 17, 2007, EQUIPPED WITH AXLE ALLIANCE COMPANY (AAC) FRONT AXLES. DURING THE FRONT AXLE ASSEMBLY, THE FASTENERS THAT ATTACH THE STEERING ARM OR TIE ROD ARMS TO THE SPINDLE MAY BE OVER OR UNDER TIGHTENED.

Risk. INCORRECTLY TIGHTENED STEERING ARM FASTENERS MAY FATIGUE AND FRACTURE WHICH COULD CAUSE A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy. THOMAS BUILT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, INSPECT THE FASTENERS, AND REPLACE THE STEERING ARM IF NECESSARY. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 21, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FREIGHTLINER AT 1-800-547-0712.

Service Brakes, Air › Supply › Check Valve07V302000
Filed Jul 16, 200775,000 vehiclesFreightliner LLC

Defect. CERTAIN FREIGHTLINER SCHOOL BUS CHASSIS, HEAVY TRUCKS, AND THOMAS BUILT SCHOOL BUSES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JULY 2002 AND JULY 3, 2007, EQUIPPED WITH BENDIX SR-7 SPRING BRAKE CONTROL VALVES. THE PARKER SCV BRASS 90 DEGREE SINGLE CHECK VALVES (SCV) WHICH ATTACH TO THE SUPPLY PORT OF A BENDIX SR-7 SPRING BRAKE MODULATING VALVE CAN BREAK APART. PIECES OF THE PARKER SCV CAN BECOME LODGED INSIDE THE SR-7 SPRING BRAKE MODULATING VALVE, POTENTIALLY CAUSING EITHER LEAKAGE OUT OF THE SR-7 VALVE OR PREVENTING AIR FROM PROPERLY EXHAUSTING FROM THE SR-7 VALVE. ALSO, DUE TO A MANUFACTURING DEFECT IN THE INTERNAL RUBBER CHECK VALVE INSIDE THE SR-7 SPRING BRAKE MODULATING VALVES, THE VALVES CAN BECOME DEFORMED AND NOT SEAT PROPERLY.

Risk. THESE CONDITIONS COULD EITHER RESULT IN LEAKAGE AND CAUSE A DELAY IN THE APPLICATION OF THE SPRING BRAKE WITHOUT WARNING OR POSSIBLY LEAD TO UNINTENDED VEHICLE ROLLAWAY OR BRAKE DRAG WHICH COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH, PERSONAL INJURY, OR DEATH.

Remedy. FREIGHTLINER WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPAIR THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 11, 2008 TO FREIGHTLINER, STERLING, AND FREIGHTLINER CUSTOM CHASSIS OWNERS; TO THOMAS BUILT BUS OWNERS ON FEBRUARY 1, 2008. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FREIGHTLINER AT 1-800-547-0712.

Power Train › Axle Assembly07V255000
Filed Jun 7, 200797 vehiclesFreightliner LLC

Defect. ON CERTAIN TRUCKS BUILT WITH DANA REAR AXLES, THE HOUSINGS MAY CONTAIN THINNER MATERIAL THAN WHAT IS NECESSARY FOR NORMAL VEHICLE OPERATION.

Risk. OVER TIME, THIS THINNER MATERIAL MAY RESULT IN A FATIGUE FAILURE OF THE REAR AXLE HOUSING, POSSIBLY IN THE LOCATION OF THE BRAKE FLANGE. A CRACK IN THE BRAKE FLANGE LOCATION OF THE REAR AXLE HOUSING MAY RESULT IN A WHEEL END LOCKUP OR WHEEL SEPARATION POSSIBLY RESULTING IN PROPERTY DAMAGE, PERSONAL INJURY, OR DEATH.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE VEHICLE'S REAR AXLES AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE AXLE HOUSINGS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 10, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FREIGHTLINER AT 1-800-547-0712.

Suspension › Front › Hub07V169000
Filed Apr 12, 2007219 vehiclesFreightliner LLC

Defect. ON CERTAIN TRUCKS BUILT WITH FRONT AXLES ASSEMBLED BY ARVINMERITOR, THE FRONT SPINDLE NUT MAY BE OVER-TIGHTENED CAUSING PRELOAD ON THE FRONT WHEEL BEARINGS WHICH COULD LEAD TO PREMATURE BEARING WEAR.

Risk. IF RAPID BEARING WEAR IS ALLOWED TO PROGRESS, THE FRONT WHEEL ASSEMBLY MAY SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FRONT HUB INSTALLATION FOR CORRECT BEARING ADJUSTMENT. IF THE BEARING ADJUSTMENT IS INCORRECT, THE FRONT WHEEL BEARINGS WILL BE REPLACED. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 28, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FREIGHTLINER AT 1-800-385-4357.

Suspension › Front06V424000
Filed Nov 2, 20061 vehiclesFreightliner LLC

Defect. ON CERTAIN TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH ARVINMERITOR FRONT AXLE ASSEMBLIES, THE FRONT SPINDLE NUT MAY BE OVER-TIGHTENED CAUSING PRELOAD ON THE FRONT WHEEL BEARINGS WHICH MAY LEAD TO PREMATURE BEARING WEAR.

Risk. IF RAPID BEARING WEAR IS ALLOWED TO PROGRESS, THE FRONT WHEEL ASSEMBLY MAY SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE AND CAUSE A CRASH WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FRONT HUB INSTALLATION FOR CORRECT BEARING ADJUSTMENT. IF THE BEARING ADJUSTMENT IS INCORRECT, THE FRONT WHEEL BEARINGS WILL BE REPLACED FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 22, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FREIGHTLINER AT 1-800-547-0712.

Power Train › Driveline06V387000
Filed Oct 11, 20069 vehiclesFreightliner LLC

Defect. ON CERTAIN TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH ARVINMERITOR RPL20 HIGH ANGLE INTERAXLE DRIVESHAFTS, AN IMPROPER SEATED OR MISSING SNAP RING CAN RESULT IN THE BEARING CUP TO SEPARATE FROM THE SLIP YOKE SUB-ASSEMBLY. THE UNIVERSAL JOINT CROSS COULD THEN CONTACT THE SLIP YOKE CASTING AND EVENTUALLY CAUSE THE EAR WORK TO FRACTURE.

Risk. THIS COULD RESULT IN ADDITIONAL DAMAGE TO THE DRIVELINE, THE VEHICLE TO WHICH IT IS ATTACHED AND ANY ADDITIONAL NEARBY OBJECTS.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE DRIVESHAFTS AND REPLACE THEM AS NEEDED. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 6, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FREIGHTLINER AT 1-800-547-0712.

Parking Brake › Conventional › Air06V205000
Filed Jun 12, 20065,243 vehiclesFreightliner LLC

Defect. CERTAIN HEAVY TRUCKS, SHUTTLE BUSES, AND SCHOOL BUSES EQUIPPED WITH BENDIX MODULATED SPRING BRAKE VALVES. A DEFECT IN THE MODULATED SPRING BRAKE VALVE CASTING MAY CAUSE AN INTERMITTENT DELAY IN THE APPLICATION OF THE PARK BRAKE.

Risk. THE VEHICLE MAY ROLLAWAY WITHOUT WARNING, POSSIBLY CAUSING PERSONAL INJURY.

Remedy. FREIGHTLINER WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE VALVES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 28, 2006 TO FREIGHTLINER, STERLING, AND FCCC OWNERS. THOMAS BUILT MAILED LETTERS TO OWNERS BEGINNING JULY 27, 2006. THIS RECALL HAS BEEN SUPERSEDED (REPLACED) BY RECALL 07V302 (FL-504).

All 27 campaigns on file, newest first.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Structure
Filed Apr 30, 2014CA

THE VIN LAST 6: [XXX] ; ZF MERIT OR,12 SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION THE CENTER CARRIER BEARING WHICH SUPPORTS THE OUTPUT SHAFT AFTER THE TRANSMISSION DID NOT LAST MORE THAN 3 YEARS AND HAD EXCESSIVE PLAY. THE FIRST REPAIR INVOICE WAS ON 3/1/2012 AND THE MOST RECENT REPAIR WAS ON 4/28/2014. THE RUBBER COMPOUND USED IN THE CENTER CARRIER BEARING NEEDS TO BE REEVALUATED. ONCE THE CENTER CARRIER BEARING HAS PLAY IN THE Z DIRECTION, THERE WOULD BE EXCESSIVE VIBRATION THAT CAN FATIGUE OTHER COMPONENTS AND CAUSE FAILURE BY INITIATING A FATIGUE CRACK AND PROPAGATING DUE TO CYCLIC STRESSES. MERITOR SHOULD REEVALUATE THE RELIABILITY OF THEIR CENTER CARRIER ASSEMBLY. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6) *JS

Visibility › Windshield Wiper/Washer
Filed Apr 27, 2010100,000 milesNM

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2007 FREIGHTLINER COLUMBIA 120 TRUCK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE WATER FROM THE FRONT WINDSHIELD WIPERS WOULD OBSTRUCT HIS VIEW WHENEVER IT WAS RAINING AND WATER WAS ON THE OUTSIDE REARVIEW MIRRORS. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED AND THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 1,000,000. UPDATED 06/15/10 *BF UPDATED 07/14/10.*JB

Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine
Filed Mar 17, 2010413,238 milesOK

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2007 FREIGHTLINER COLUMBIA. UPON ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT RESPOND. THE DEALER REPLACED THE STARTER AND POWER STEERING PUMP IN AN ATTEMPT TO CORRECT THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 413,238.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 5, 2009FL

2007 FREIGHTLINER COLUMBIA DASH BOARD INSTRUMENT UNIT OWN TRUCK FOR 3 YEARS AND I AM ON MY 3RD ONE, AND LOW VOLTGE SHUT DOWN, SHUTS DOWN ALL NON PRIMARY ELECTRICAL STUFF, THEY FREIGHTLINER DISCONNECTED IT AND ITS NEVER BEEN FIX, CAUSE THEY COULD NOT FIND THE PROBLEM, I THINK THAT THERE IS AN ELECTRICAL PROBLEM WITH THIS YEAR TRUCK. *TR

Visibility
Filed Dec 15, 2008141,000 milesFL

WIPERS ON LOWEST INTERMITTENT POSITION DURING A LIGHT MIST, AFTER ABOUT 45 MINUTES IN THIS POSITION, WIPERS STOPPED SUDDENLY AND REMAINED IN THEIR "TRANSIT" POSITION. VISIBILITY IMMEDIATELY WENT TO ZERO (I WAS IN OUTSIDE LANE AND PULLED OVER TO SHOULDER.) I REPLACED THE FUSE/CIRCUIT WITH A STANDARD FUSE OF EQUAL RATING AND IT IMMEDIATELY BLEW. AFTER ABOUT THIRTY MINUTES, I RE-INSTALLED THE ORIGINAL FUSE/CIRCUIT AND THE WIPERS BEGAN WORKING. I CONTINUED WITH THE WIPERS IN THE STANDARD RUN POSITION WITH NO FURTHER PROBLEMS. ABOUT TWO MONTHS LATER DURING A SNOW STORM IN COLORADO I HAD THE WIPER IN THE LOW INTERMITTENT POSITION AND EXPERIENCED THE SAME PROBLEM. THIS RESULTED IN HAVING STOP THE VEHICLE ON THE HIGHWAY UNTIL THE WIPERS RESUMED OPERATING. THIS TIME IT TOOK ONLY A FEW MINUTES. *TR

Structure › Body
Filed May 17, 2008CO

ROOF LEAK THAT HAS BEEN ON GOING SINCE TAKING DELIVERY OF TRUCK BRAND NEW IN JUNE OF 2007. WHEN TRUCK IS SUBJECTED TO HEAVY RAIN, AND SOMETIMES JUST A TRUCK WASH, WATER COMES IN ROOF AT SOME POINT AND SHORTS OUT THE ELECTRONIC MODULES LOCATED IN SIDE PILLAR NEXT TO DRIVERS SEAT. HAVE ALSO HAD EPISODES WHERE THE DASH INSTRUMENTS WILL SURGE POWER ON AND OFF WITH NO KEY IN IGNITION, OR IF TRUCK IS RUNNING IT CANNOT BE SHUT OFF WITH KEY WHEN THIS HAPPENS. HAVE PUT TRUCK IN DEALER SHOP ON FOUR SEPARATE OCCASIONS TO HAVE THIS PROBLEM FIXED UNDER WARRANTY. EACH TIME THEY HAVE REPLACED THE ELECTRONIC MODULES THAT HAVE SHORTED OUT, AND THEY ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THERE IS A LEAK SOMEWHERE. HOWEVER, DEALER HAS BEEN UNABLE TO ISOLATE THE PROBLEM AND FIX IT. NOT EVEN SURE OF WHERE ELSE THE WATER IS GOING INSIDE TRUCK. ONLY KNOW ABOUT IT INSIDE PILLAR BECAUSE OF THE ELECTRONIC MODULES IT DAMAGES. TRUCK HAS SINCE STARTED TO ACQUIRE A MUSTY DAMP ODOR AND HAS GOTTEN TO THE POINT WHERE I CAN NO LONGER DRIVE IT FOR EXTENDED PERIODS BECAUSE IT MAKES ME EXTREMELY SICK, AND AM CURRENTLY HAVING CONTINUOUS HEALTH PROBLEMS. I AM AT THE POINT WHERE I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO OR WHERE I STAND ON THIS SITUATION BECAUSE AS FAR AS I KNOW I HAVE NO LEGAL PROTECTION SUCH AS A LEMON LAW ON A COMMERCIAL TRUCK, EVEN THOUGH DEALER IS UNABLE TO FIX IT. *TR

Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine › DieselFire
Filed Oct 2, 200750,000 milesTX

A DRIVER FOR OUR COMPANY WAS OPERATING A 2007 FREIGHTLINER CL 112 TRACTOR WITH 50,000 MILES EQUIPPED WITH A MERCEDES BENZ (MBE4000) WHEN THE ENGINE SUDDENLY CAUGHT FIRE. UNIT WAS BEING DRIVEN UNDER NORMAL OPERATING CONDITIONS WHEN SMOKE WAS SEEN COMING IN THE CAB. DRIVER PULLED THE TRUCK TO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD AND FLAMES WERE COMING OUT FROM UNDER THE HOOD. DRIVER TRIED TO PUT THE FIRE OUT WITH A FIRE EXTINGUISHER BUT WAS UNABLE TO CONTAIN IT. THE FIRE DEPT WAS CALLED AND DID PUT THE FIRE OUT. THE TRACTOR WAS COMPLETELY DESTROYED. AT THIS TIME NO CAUSE FOR THE FIRE HAS BEEN DETERMINED. *JB

Trailer Hitches › Fifth Wheel Assembly
Filed Aug 23, 2007MN

I FEEL THAT THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL FOR A SAFETY RELATED ISSUES WITH A 5TH WHEEL ON HEAVY TRUCKS. I HAVE MORE LOTS MORE INFORMATION THAT I CAN FORWARD TO YOU. OVER 300 VINS AND A LETTER FROM THE VENDOR OF THE EQUIPMENT. *TR

Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Emission Control › Gas Recirculation Valve (egr Valve)
Filed Feb 13, 20071 milesNC

THIS IS A COMPLAINT ABOUT EXHAUST FUMES ENTERING THE CAB OF A COMMERCIAL VEHICLE. *JB

Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Emission Control › Gas Recirculation Valve (egr Valve)
Filed Feb 13, 20071 milesNC

I AM A COMPANY DRIVER AND HAVE BEEN COMPLAINING OF EXHAUST FUMES IN THE TRUCK. I HAVE BEEN SLEEPING MUCH MORE THAN NORMAL 12 - 14 HRS A DAY NOW, WAKE UP SLOW WITH SICK FEELING AND VERY BAD HEADACHES. MY MEMORY AND CONCENTRATION HAVE BECOME DIMINISHED, ALONG WITH A RISE IN BLOOD PRESSURE. *JB

Visibility › Windshield Wiper/Washer
Filed Oct 25, 2006825 milesNY

DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS OPERATED ON AN INTERMITTENT BASIS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE SERVICE DEALER TWO TIMES, BUT THE PROBLEM COULD NOT BE RECREATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT YET NOTIFIED.

All 11 complaints, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2005
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20210100Routine
20200200Routine
20190300Routine
20180200Routine
20170300Routine
20160300Routine
20150300Routine
20140500Routine
20130500Routine
20120600Routine
201101300Routine
201011800Routine
200922000Routine
200813000Routine
2007 — this page112710Routine
2006142120Routine
2005381420Routine
2004131022Fatalities reported
200310500Routine
20022310Routine
20013100Routine
20001300Routine
19990200Routine
19980200Routine
19970100Routine

Compare every Columbia year →

Reading this record

No unusual pattern of severe incidents in the complaint record.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Apr 14, 2020. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.