Navistar recalls 45,000 trucks over HVAC blower motor issue

Trucking news and briefs for Tuesday, April 18, 2023:

Navistar is recalling nearly 45,000 trucks and buses due to a wiring issue related to the heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system, according to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration documents.

The recall impacts approximately 44,887 model year 2016-'20 International DuraStar and WorkStar; 2017-'18 TranStar; 2018 ProStar; 2020 HV and MV trucks and 2018 IC Bus HC models. In the affected trucks and buses, the HVAC blower motor circuit may have an insufficient wiring terminal that can overheat, which can increase the risk of fire.

Dealers will replace the HVAC blower motor load circuit wiring terminal, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed June 5. Owners can contact Navistar's customer service at 800-448-7825 with recall number 23510. NHTSA’s recall number is 23V-248.

A steering issue has prompted Daimler Trucks North America to recall approximately 306 trucks, buses and chassis.

Affected vehicles include the following: 2022 Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation MT45G and S2C 106 and 2022-'23 FCCC MT50E, MT55 and S2RV chassis; 2023 Freightliner 108 SD, 114 SD, Cascadia, and M2 106 trucks; 2023 FCCC XCM, XCR and XCS chassis; 2023 Thomas Built Bus SAF-T-LINER C2; and 2023 Western Star 4700, 47X, 4900 and 49X trucks.

In the affected vehicles, the tie rod may be missing a fastener, allowing the steer arm to detach, which could result in a loss of steering.

The remedy is currently under development. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed June 4. Owners can contact DTNA customer service at 800-547-0712 with recall number FL970. NHTSA’s recall number is 23V-238.

Electric truck maker Nikola and Volvo Trucks North America have each announced recalls affecting Class 8 electric trucks.

Nikola’s recall affects approximately 364 model year 2022-'24 Nikola Tre BEV trucks due to an issue in which the electronic parking brake valve module (PVM) may fail to move into the park position when the parking brake is activated. A parking brake that is not engaged as expected when the driver releases the brakes may allow the vehicle to roll away, according to the recall.

Dealers will replace the PVM, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed May 1. Owners can contact Nikola customer service at 630-808-4531 with recall number 23VDC0301. NHTSA’s recall number is 23V-249.

Volvo’s recall impacts approximately 236 model year 2020-'23 VNR Electric trucks equipped with adaptive cruise control (ACC). When the ACC braking activates under light load conditions, it can trigger an aggressive braking response, possibly resulting in the rear axle skidding, the brakes locking up, and/or a loss of vehicle control.

The remedy is currently under development, with owner notification letters expected June 2. Owners can contact Volvo Trucks' customer service at 800-528-6586 with recall number RVXX2303. NHTSA’s recall number is 23V-255.

[Related: Biden admin proposes stricter emissions regs for passenger, commercial vehicles]

With the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s International Roadcheck scheduled for May 16-18, TravelCenters of America is offering truck owners free mid-trip inspections at TA Truck Service through May 15.

The main purpose of a mid-trip inspection is to help ensure the safety, reliability and functionality of your truck and cargo. Mid-trip inspections can help identify vehicle issues including worn brake pads, low tire pressure or fuel system leaks. To prevent these issues from growing into even bigger problems, it’s important to catch these signs early.

A thorough mid-trip inspection covers all aspects of your vehicle, including tires, brakes, fluids, electrical system, suspension and cargo securement.

Vigilant owner-operators know to look out for any signs that the truck needs extra attention, TA noted. Warning signs can sometimes indicate you need a mid-trip inspection even sooner than expected. Look out for unusual noises, vibrations, or changes in vehicle performance or functionality. Take note of any warning lights that appear on your dashboard, as they may indicate what needs to be inspected. Also be aware of any unusual odors or smoke from the engine or exhaust. Any of these warning signs could mean it’s time to schedule services or repairs to address potentially detrimental symptoms.

[Related: POLL: Are you getting Roadcheck-ready?]