Freightliner/interaxle u-joints
Defect Summary
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.
Safety Consequence
If this problem goes undetected, the interaxle driveline can separate from the vehicle, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Corrective Action
Dealers will replace the u-joints with the current design u-joints.
Similar Recalls
Other recalls from Freightliner Llc or involving Suspension.
FAQ: Recall 98V085000
Your rights, the repair process, and what each field on this page means.
What is recall 98V085000?
NHTSA recall 98V085000 was issued by Freightliner Llc on April 21, 1998. It addresses: Freightliner/interaxle u-joints. The recall affects approximately 22,186 vehicles, with the defect involving the Suspension component.
How do I get this recall repaired?
Contact any authorized Freightliner Llc dealer and reference NHTSA recall ID 98V085000 or the manufacturer campaign number NR (Not Reported). Under federal law, the repair is completely free regardless of vehicle age or owner history.
Is my vehicle included in this recall?
The only way to confirm is to look up your 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. NHTSA's tool will tell you if VIN-by-VIN this exact recall applies.
How long do I have to get a recall repair done?
There is no expiration on most federal safety recalls. Even if your vehicle is years old and you bought it used, the manufacturer is required to perform the repair at no cost.
Where does the data on this page come from?
All information on this page is sourced directly from the U.S. Department of Transportation public dataset for NHTSA recalls. Last refreshed: 2026-05-22. For the most current official notice, visit nhtsa.gov/recalls.