Recall 98V-085: 1996–1998 Freightliner Century

The problem

Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with meritor interaxle driveline u-joints. Deflector rings, a part of the system to seal the u-joints from contaminates, are loose. This allows water to enter the u-joint bearing area result in dilution of the lubricant, oxidation of the bearing and seal surfaces, and loss of lubricant.

The risk

If this problem goes undetected, the interaxle driveline can separate from the vehicle, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

The fix

Dealers will replace the u-joints with the current design u-joints.

Notes

Owner notification will be conducted in two phases.the first phase is expected to begin july 13, 1998. The second phase will begin august 8, 1998. 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 1-800-547-0712.also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

Recall details

Vehicles in this recall

Not every vehicle of these model years is included. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls ↗ or ask a dealer.

Frequently asked questions

What is recall 98V-085?

Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with meritor interaxle driveline u-joints. Deflector rings, a part of the system to seal the u-joints from contaminates, are loose. This allows water to enter the u-joint bearing area result in dilution of the lubricant, oxidation of the bearing and seal surfaces, and loss of lubricant.

How is recall 98V-085 fixed?

Dealers will replace the u-joints with the current design u-joints.

Is the recall repair free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized dealers. Check whether your vehicle is included with its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.