Freightliner/fmvss 121
Defect Summary
Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with automatic transmissions and an optional shift selector with a park brake position. these vehicles do not comply with the emergency brake system requirements of fmvss no. 121, "air brake system." if the secondary air system is drained, the spring brakes will apply and the ability to apply, release, and modulate the service brakes will be lost.
Safety Consequence
Increased braking effort will be required, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Dealers will repair the brake system on these vehicles.
Similar Recalls
Other recalls from Freightliner Llc or involving N/A.
FAQ: Recall 98V281000
Your rights, the repair process, and what each field on this page means.
What is recall 98V281000?
NHTSA recall 98V281000 was issued by Freightliner Llc on November 5, 1998. It addresses: Freightliner/fmvss 121. The recall affects approximately 348 vehicles, with the defect involving the N/A component.
How do I get this recall repaired?
Contact any authorized Freightliner Llc dealer and reference NHTSA recall ID 98V281000 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.