2021 FREIGHTLINER Cascadia

Recalls, Specs & Safety Report

Expert Verdict
🚨Requires Careful Review

This 2021 model shows critical reliability concerns, primarily driven by significant recall activity affecting exterior lighting and steering.

Key Factor:multiple critical recalls

📋Why This Matters

Understanding recall history helps predict future ownership costs. Each unaddressed issue represents potential repair expenses.

Insurance companies review vehicle reliability data when setting premiums. Models with elevated recall rates often see adjusted pricing.

Given this model year's elevated concern level, budget for a thorough pre-purchase inspection.

Focus Area:general reliability
📊

Expert Analysis

  • 📈
    Recall Trend:No Change in recalls
  • ⚠️
    Primary Risk Area:Accident
  • ⚖️
    Vs Brand: Worse than avg (0.5)
    📝
    Summary:

Safety & Reliability Score

0/100

Score Breakdown

Recall Impact-160
Complaint Impact-0.7
Investigation Impact-30

Technical Specifications

Key specifications for the 2021 FREIGHTLINER Cascadia

Model Year2021
MakeFREIGHTLINER
ModelCascadia
Fuel TypeGasoline
Body ClassPassenger Vehicle

Safety History Timeline

Scroll for more →
Feb20
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
NEWProduction
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Feb21
RECALLRecall Issued
Dec21
RECALLRecall Issued
Dec21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan22
RECALLRecall Issued
Jun22
ISSUEFirst Report
Dec22
RECALLRecall Issued
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
Oct23
RECALLRecall Issued

Consumer Complaint Analysis

⚠️

Most Reported Issue

7 complaints (50% of total)
➡️

Complaint Trend

Stable
No trend data

Safety Incidents

No critical incidents

Complaint Severity Distribution

Breakdown of 14 consumer complaints by severity level.

🟠High
2(14%)
🟡Medium
7(50%)
🟢Low
5(36%)

Mileage Failure Analysis

⚙️Engineering Insight

Based on consumer reports, issues for this vehicle tend to peak around the 100k+ mileage range. The average reported failure mileage is 146,090 miles.

📊 Mileage data extracted from 7 of 14 complaints (50% coverage)
0-20k
0 reports (0%)
20k-40k
0 reports (0%)
40k-60k
1 reports (14%)
60k-80k
1 reports (14%)
80k-100k
1 reports (14%)
100k+
4 reports (57%)
* Analysis based on mileage data extracted from consumer complaint descriptions. Actual failure rates may vary.

🛠️ DIY Diagnosis Center

Experiencing an issue? Select a symptom to find official manufacturer solutions (TSBs).

Primary Risk Areas

STEERINGSERVICE BRAKES, AIREXTERIOR LIGHTINGELECTRICAL SYSTEMSERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULICPOWER TRAINFUEL SYSTEM, DIESELENGINESUSPENSIONTIRESWHEELSELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

Official Safety Recalls (20)

Campaign: 21V689000

STEERING:LINKAGES:DRAG:LINK:CONNECTION

Summary

Daimler Trucks North America, LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2019 Freightliner Classic Cascadia and 2019-2021 Freightliner Cascadia trucks. The drag link taper joint may not have been tightened sufficiently and could come loose, resulting in a complete separation of the drag link from the steering arm.

Consequence

Drag link separation can cause a complete loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

DTNA will inspect the drag link taper joint and repair it as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 29, 2021. Owners may contact DTNA's customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-900.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Daimler Trucks North America, LLC

Campaign: 20V390000

SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:SUPPLY:QUICK RELEASE VALVE

Summary

Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Freightliner Cascadia tractor trailers. The single brake modulator valve may be affected by chemical corrosion which can slow down the release timing and cause the brakes to pull to the affected side during automatic braking events.

Consequence

Brakes that pull to one side during automatic braking events may cause a sudden change in vehicle direction, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front left and right single brake modulator valves will be replaced and spacers added, free of charge. The recall began August 28, 2020. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-855.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Manufacturer: Daimler Trucks North America LLC

Campaign: 20V214000

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Summary

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."

Consequence

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.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Manufacturer: Daimler Trucks North America LLC

Campaign: 21V481000

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY:CABLES

Summary

Daimler Trucks North America, LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Freightliner Cascadia P4, 2021 Western Star WH126, 2020 Western Star WJ121, and 2021-2022 Western Star 49X vehicles. The battery cable terminal may break, resulting in a loss of electrical power and unintended engine stall.

Consequence

An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will repair or replace the battery cables, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on January 7, 2022. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-893.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Daimler Trucks North America, LLC

Campaign: 21V256000

STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY

Summary

Daimler Trucks North America, LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Freightliner Cascadia, Business Class M2, 114SD, 108SD, 122SD, Custom Chass S2 Chassis, Custom Chass XB Chassis, Custom Chass XC Chassis, and Custom Chass MT Chassis Western Star 4700, 4900, 5700 vehicles. The steering arm and tie rod bolts may have a defective seam that can fracture.

Consequence

A fractured bolt may cause a loss of steering, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the tie rod arm and steering arm bolts, free of charge. The recall began on June 10, 2021. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-884.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Manufacturer: Daimler Trucks North America, LLC

Campaign: 21V018000

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER

Summary

Daimler Trucks North America, LLC (DTNA) is recalling 2021 Western Star 4700 and 5700, Freightliner Business Class M2, Cascadia, and Custom Chassis XC Chassis vehicles manufactured with a certain steering arm configuration with air disc brakes identified by the axle assembly supplier. On certain vehicles, one of the six brake caliper mounting bolts on the driver side steer axle may have been incorrectly tightened.

Consequence

The loose bolt could result in the other caliper bolts to loosen. Insufficiently tightened bolts may not provide adequate clamping force between the brake caliper and brake anchor plate, resulting in reduced brake effectiveness, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and repair as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 17, 2021. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-873.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Manufacturer: Daimler Trucks North America, LLC

Campaign: 20V567000

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS

Summary

Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Cascadia P4 vehicles. The brake lights may remain illuminated after the brake pedal has been released.

Consequence

If the brake lights remain illuminated, drivers may be unaware when the truck is actually slowing or stopping, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the 3-pin brake pressure switch with a 2-pin brake pressure switch along with a jumper harness, free of charge. DTNA issued owners an interim notification on November 17, 2020. Owner notification letters were mailed on November 21, 2021. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-863.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Manufacturer: Daimler Trucks North America LLC

Campaign: 21V209000

POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY

Summary

Daimler Trucks North America, LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2021 Freightliner Cascadia and Western Star 4700 vehicles. The clutch flange may break.

Consequence

If flange failure occurs, loose parts may fall into the clutch pressure plate assembly, resulting in clutch disengagement, thereby increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the clutch on the affected vehicles, free of charge. The recall began on May 7, 2021. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-881.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Manufacturer: Daimler Trucks North America, LLC

Campaign: 21V965000

FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM:FUEL RAIL

Summary

Daimler Trucks North America, LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Western Star 4700, 2019-2022 Freightliner 114SD, 2021-2022 Western Star 49X, Freightliner Cascadia P4, 2022 Western Star 47X, 2021 Western Star WF110, 2020 Western Star WJ121, and 2019-2021 FCCC XCP Chassis vehicles. The fuel tubes between the fuel rail and the injectors for cylinders four, five, and six may fatigue and crack, which can result in a high pressure fuel leak.

Consequence

A high pressure fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the fuel tubes, and install vibration isolators, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 28, 2022. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-915.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Daimler Trucks North America, LLC

Campaign: 21V073000

ENGINE

Summary

Daimler Trucks North America, LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Freightliner Cascadia vehicles equipped with a Cummins X15 engine. The capscrews that attach the flywheel to the crankshaft may have been improperly torqued, allowing the flywheel to detach.

Consequence

A detached flywheel can cause loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, driveline pieces may be ejected from the engine compartment, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy

DTNA will work with the engine manufacturer Cummins Inc. to notify owners, and Cummins dealers will properly torque the capscrews and inspect for possible damage and, if necessary, repair any damage found, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 12, 2021. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-875.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Manufacturer: Daimler Trucks North America, LLC

Campaign: 20V742000

POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY

Summary

Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2021 Freightliner Cascadia vehicles. The clutch flange may break due to the heat treating and stamping process.

Consequence

If flange failure occurs, loose parts may fall into the clutch pressure plate assembly, resulting in clutch disengagement, thereby increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the clutch on the affected vehicles, free of charge. The recall began February 10, 2021. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-869.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Manufacturer: Daimler Trucks North America LLC

Campaign: 21V357000

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS:BULBS

Summary

Daimler Trucks North America, LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2017-2022 Freightliner Cascadia vehicles equipped with halogen headlight assemblies. The halogen headlight bulb may dislodge during replacement and contact other vehicle components, possibly causing them to melt.

Consequence

Melting components can increase the risk of fire.

Remedy

Dealers will install a foam grommet, cut a 4-inch access hole into the inner fender, and add a warning label on both fenders, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 9, 2021. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-887.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Daimler Trucks North America, LLC

Campaign: 21V369000

STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY

Summary

Daimler Trucks North America, LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Freightliner 114SD, 122SD, Business Class M2, Cascadia, 108SD, Western Star 4900, 4700, 5700, Custom Chass RV Chassis, Custom Chass S2 Chassis, Custom Chass XC Chassis, Custom Chass XB Chassis, and Custom Chass MT Chassis. The tie rod clamps may be loose, which could result in loose tie rod ends that could break or detach.

Consequence

Detached or broken tie rod ends can result in steering loss, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the tie rod clamp bolts and nuts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 23, 2021. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-888.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Daimler Trucks North America, LLC

Campaign: 20V660000

SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE:SPINDLE

Summary

Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Freightliner Cascadia, 2021 Freightliner 108SD, 114SD and Business Class M2 and Western Star 4700, 4900 and 5700 vehicles. The steer axle spindle nut snap-ring locking feature may be incorrectly installed or missing from the left spindle nut at the spindle.

Consequence

A missing or improperly installed locking snap ring can result in wheel-end failure and potentially a wheel-off/separation condition, increasing the risk of crash.

Remedy

DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the hub cap plug, and reinstall or replace of the snap-ring as needed, free of charge. The recall began December 18, 2020. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-866.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Manufacturer: Daimler Trucks North America LLC

Campaign: 21V007000

TIRES

Summary

Daimler Trucks North America, LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Freightliner Cascadia sleeper trucks equipped with Bridgestone R284, R268, or R283S ECOPIA steer axle tires in conjunction with a specific air dam. The steer tires may experience tread separation or blow-outs while driving.

Consequence

Tread separation and/or blow-outs while driving may result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

DTNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steer tires, free of charge. The recall began March 10, 2021. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL872.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Manufacturer: Daimler Trucks North America, LLC

Campaign: 22V817000

SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK:MODULATOR

Summary

Daimler Trucks North America, LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2017-2023 Freightliner Cascadia, 2020-2022 Freightliner Business Class M2, and 2022 Freightliner 114SD, and 2020-2023 Western Star 49X, 2021-2023 Western Star 47X, and 2021-2022 Western Star 57X vehicles. The brake modulator valves on the front axle may corrode and cause the vehicle to pull to the affected side during an Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) braking event.

Consequence

Brakes that pull to one side during an ACC braking event may cause a sudden change in vehicle direction, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the front brake modulator valves, as necessary. Some vehicles will have a software update which will alert driver when a replacement is required. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning October 16, 2023. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-958. This recall expands and replaces previous recall 20V-390. All vehicles previously repaired under recall 20V-390 will need to have the new remedy performed.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Daimler Trucks North America, LLC

Campaign: 22V919000

WHEELS:RIM

Summary

Daimler Trucks North America, LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Freightliner 114SD, 2023 Freightliner 122SD, 2020 Western Star 4700, 2019-2022 Western Star 4900, 2019-2023 Freightliner Business Class M2, and 2021 Freightliner Cascadia vehicles. The vehicles are equipped with tires that are not compatible with their 8.25-inch rims. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 120, "Wheels and Rims-Other Than Passenger Cars."

Consequence

Driving with tires that are not compatible with their rims can reduce tire performance, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the tires, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 2, 2023. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL-962.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Daimler Trucks North America, LLC

Campaign: 23V073000

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

Summary

Daimler Trucks North America, LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2017-2023 Freightliner Cascadia, 2020-2023 Western Star 49X, 2021-2023 Western Star 47X, and 2022 Freightliner 114SD vehicles. The brake modulator valves on the front axle may corrode and cause the vehicle to pull to the affected side during braking initiated by Electronic Stability Control (ESC) or Roll Stability Control (RSC).

Consequence

Brakes that pull to one side may cause a sudden change in vehicle direction, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the front brake modulator valves, as necessary. Some vehicles will have a software update which will alert driver when a replacement is required. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning October 13, 2023. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL966.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Daimler Trucks North America, LLC

Campaign: 23V208000

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HAZARD FLASHING WARNING LIGHTS

Summary

Daimler Trucks North America, LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Freightliner Cascadia and Western Star 49X vehicles. The hazard warning lights may flash improperly during an Advanced Braking Assist event. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Consequence

Hazard warning lights that flash improperly may cause confusion for other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will update the software controlling the hazard warning lights, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 18, 2023. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL851.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Daimler Trucks North America, LLC

Campaign: 23V299000

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

Summary

Daimler Trucks North America, LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain short wheelbase 2020-2024 Freightliner Cascadia, 2021-2024 Freightliner M2 Business Class, 2022 Western Star 4700, and 2020 Freightliner Classic Cascadia vehicles. The vehicle is equipped with an electronic stability control system and tire combination that may understeer during a J-turn. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 136, "Electronic Stability Control Systems on Heavy Vehicles."

Consequence

Understeering during a J-turn may increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

DTNA will replace the tires, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 19, 2023. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 1-800-547-0712. DTNA's number for this recall is FL971.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Daimler Trucks North America, LLC

NHTSA Investigations

6 investigations

Official NHTSA safety investigations for 2021 Cascadia.

INV-2021-1000🟢 Closed

NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding Cascadia performance issues.

Opened: Affected Units: 36,202
INV-2021-1001🟢 Closed

NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding Cascadia performance issues.

Opened: Affected Units: 33,792
INV-2021-1002🟢 Closed

NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding Cascadia performance issues.

Opened: Affected Units: 44,260
INV-2021-1003🟢 Closed

NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding Cascadia performance issues.

Opened: Affected Units: 35,663
INV-2021-1004🟢 Closed

NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding Cascadia performance issues.

Opened: Affected Units: 12,518
INV-2021-1005🟢 Closed

NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding Cascadia performance issues.

Opened: Affected Units: 14,986

Consumer Complaints

14 total complaints

Consumer-reported issues submitted to NHTSA for 2021 Cascadia.

Common Reported SymptomsAI Analysis

Accident50%
Warning43%
Crash/Accident14%
Peel7%
Leak7%
Safety Systems🔶 Medium
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

While vehicle approached a hazard blocking the roadway the forward collision and automatic braking feature did not engage; apparently due to the vehicle sensors not recognizing the hazard. The object in the roadway was a 53 ft van trailer that was laid on it's side with the translucent roof facing the approaching vehicle.

Electrical🔵 Low
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES

When driving, there is a constant and very strong vibration throughout the entirety of the truck. This makes it difficult to steer and drive in a safe manner. I've replaced any parts that might be associated with this malfunction with brand new parts at the advice of professional mechanics (cost over $30,000) and it was to no avail. The truck is still malfunctioning and I have been left unable to work or barely working for 14 months. The vibration has caused many health concerns, like headaches, nausea, and stomach ulcers. I went to over 10 dealers and there has been no solutions that have worked.

Engine/Powertrain🔵 Low
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE

My Emplyoer has not fixed anything on the truck, the truck shouldn’t be operating, doesn’t meet DOT Regulations, I was told not to go into any scales or weigh stations, loses air and the air doesn’t build back up properly, I lost all air in my breaks while driving on the road

Safety Systems🔶 Medium
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

I'd like to report the automatic braking device on our company semi tractor. I work for a large mega carrier hauling all types of freight, with triples and doubles combination trailers. We operate with Freightliners, Kenworths, and Internationals. The tractor tractor I use is a 2021 Freightliner equipped with a safety feature, an automatic braking system to avoid collisions for stopped or slowed traffic ahead. The issue is, it randomly brakes with no obstructions ahead. I've seen reports that you guys are looking into this. And I'm also informing you that our trucks deal with this issue as well. There's no defect warnings on the device's monitor system. No previous accidents that would cause issues to the device to have faulty sensor. The problem with the system, it sees a shadow on the road and it thinks theres a stopped vehicle, forcing the truck to hard apply the brakes. This can be extremely dangerous on inclement weather, more so on icy conditions. Few weeks ago, I traveled through the same part of the toll road like I always do, I know this spot activates the brakes 70-85% of the time during the night. That night, my trailers ABS light was on, when I approached the bad spot, all my brakes activated and almost caused my truck to jack-knife, lost full control but didn't crash, nor was anyone near me. But it would've been a different outcome if it was bad weather. When I approach this area, I always turn on my high beams to try to eliminate the shadow on the road. Where this happens: Indiana Toll Road 80-90, Elkhart IN, West bound lanes, right before exit 92. The overpass that causes this shadow is Johnson Street. You can see on Google street maps, where other trucks have had automatic braking activated, from seeing tire marks on the road. The lights around create that shadow at night. I would just like to inform you guys of my experiences. I have also reached out to INDOT about the issue, not sure if they looked into it. Reporting before a crash could happen.

Safety Systems🔵 Low
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

The contact owns a 2021 Freightliner Cascadia. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH with the cruise control activated, the brakes applied independently. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the calibration of the radar. The vehicle was repaired but experienced the failure within a week. The contact took the vehicle back to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the radar to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but continued to experience the same failure within a month. The contact took the vehicle back a third time to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the recalibration of the radar. The vehicle was repaired but continued to experience the failure intermittently. The contact called the local dealer and made them aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 215,000.

Steering/Suspension⚠️ High
SUSPENSION,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

This complaint is being filed in addition to my previous complaint which is complaint #1147128511471285. Both left and right vehicle airbag suspension height regulators were just replace a month ago, and once again, the right side airbag ride height regulator has blown apart, causing my semi truck to lean heavily to the right side, and wear out my right front steer tire exceedingly fast. And, the radar braking system erratically slams the brakes on at random times, which could cause a catastrophic accident. Imagine hauling an 80,000 lb. load, and the truck just decides to slam on the brakes, in a corner, in the rain, or in the snow. You’re riding a very thin line between life and death. Freightliner will now be sued for negligence, embezzlement, fraud, and loss of use of my truck. My truck just spent 40 days at the Freightliner Dealership for several Factory Safety Recalls, and they just replaced both airbag ride height control vale’s, because they both failed. If this isn’t a clear cut case of the Federal Lemon Law, nothing is.

Other🔶 Medium
TIRES

TIRE SIZE: 275/80 R22.5 MICHELIN ENERGY LINE Z Component that failed is drivers side steer front tire. The tire blew out and resulted in loss of vehicle control. This failure DID cause an accident putting others safety at risk. Both Freightliner Corp. and Michelin Tire Co. are aware of this failure. No one has inspected the tire. I DO NOT have the tire in my possession yet. There are/were no warning, messages or symptoms of this problem prior to. This truck had a right side tire failure at the decoupling groove on May 11, 2022. The tire was replaced at that time with a new tire tire. This truck returned to Toledo Ohio to our terminal. The 4X4X4 air fairings were then removed at the request of DTNA. On 8-5-22 with 52,742 miles on the tire, it blew out resulting in an accident.

Other🔶 Medium
TIRES

TIRE SIZE: 275/80 R22.5 MICHELIN ENERGY LINE Z Component that failed is the passenger side steer front tire. The inside edge decoupling groove failed. Risks include a potential tire blow resulting in loss of vehicle control. This failure could cause an accident putting others safety at risk. Both Freightliner and Michelin Tire Co. are aware of this failure. Michelin tire representative has visually inspected the tire and asked to have the tire returned to the Michelin Company for further inspection. I have not released the tire to them yet. There are/were no warnings, messages or symptoms of this problem prior to. This truck was built with 4X4X4 front air fairing that was removed after this failure by the request of the Freightliner Corp. The mileage on the tire at the time of failure was, 89,490 miles.

Other🔶 Medium
TIRES

TIRE SIZE: 275/80 R22.5 MICHELIN ENERGY LINE Z Component that failed is drivers side steer front tire. The outside edge decoupling groove/sidewall failed. Risks include potential tire blow resulting in loss of vehicle control. This failure could cause an accident putting others safety at risk. Both Freightliner Corp. and Michelin Tire Co. are aware of this failure. No one has inspected the tire. I have the tire in my possession. There are/were no warning, messages or symptoms of this problem prior to. This truck was built with a 4X4X4 front air fairing that was removed after this failure by the request of Freighliner Corp. Mileage on tire at the time of failure was 165,782 miles.

Other🔶 Medium
TIRES

TIRE SIZE: 275/80 R22.5 MICHELIN ENERGY LINE Z Component that failed is the passenger steer front tire. The outside edge decoupling groove/sidewall failed. Risks include potential tire blow resulting in loss of vehicle control. This failure could cause an accident putting others safety at risk. Both Freightliner Corp. and Michelin Tire Co. are aware of this failure. No one has inspected the tire. I have the tire in my possession. There are/were no warning, messages or symptoms of this problem prior to. This truck was built with a 4X4X4 front air fairing that was removed after this failure by the request of Freighliner Corp. Mileage on tire at the time of failure was 71,000 miles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any recalls for the 2021 FREIGHTLINER Cascadia?

Yes, the 2021 FREIGHTLINER Cascadia has 20 recorded recalls from NHTSA. These recalls cover various components including STEERING:LINKAGES:DRAG:LINK:CONNECTION, SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:SUPPLY:QUICK RELEASE VALVE, EXTERIOR LIGHTING.

Is the 2021 FREIGHTLINER Cascadia safe to drive?

The 2021 FREIGHTLINER Cascadia has 20 recalls. If you own this vehicle, check with your dealer to ensure all recall repairs have been completed. Most recalls have free remedies available.

Where can I check if my 2021 FREIGHTLINER Cascadia has open recalls?

You can check for open recalls by visiting NHTSA.gov and entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), or by contacting your local FREIGHTLINER dealer.

📊Year-over-Year Context

➡️Stable Pattern

Compared to earlier years, the 2021 model shows stable reliability patterns. No meaningful structural change detected in recall frequency between adjacent model years.

🎯Risk Areas & Recommended Actions

Based on recall data, these components require verification:

1

Exterior lighting

Issue: increases crash or loss-of-control risk

If you already own this vehicle: Contact your dealer immediately to confirm exterior lighting recalls are complete. Recall repairs are always free.

🔍

If you are evaluating a used example: Request VIN and verify all exterior lighting recalls are completed before purchase.

Campaigns:20V21400020V56700021V35700023V208000
2

Steering

Issue: increases crash or loss-of-control risk

If you already own this vehicle: Contact your dealer immediately to confirm steering recalls are complete. Recall repairs are always free.

🔍

If you are evaluating a used example: Request VIN and verify all steering recalls are completed before purchase.

Campaigns:21V68900021V25600021V369000
3

Service brakes, air

Issue: increases crash or loss-of-control risk

If you already own this vehicle: Contact your dealer immediately to confirm service brakes, air recalls are complete. Recall repairs are always free.

🔍

If you are evaluating a used example: Request VIN and verify all service brakes, air recalls are completed before purchase.

Campaigns:20V39000022V817000
💡Visit NHTSA.gov or contact your FREIGHTLINER dealer to verify recall completion status.

🧭What This Means for You

Both current owners and prospective buyers benefit from reviewing this safety analysis before making decisions.

If you're unsure, we recommend starting with a VIN check or consulting a certified mechanic.

🔑

If You Own This Vehicle

  • Verify all 20 recalls have been completed using your VIN at NHTSA.gov or through your FREIGHTLINER dealer.
  • If any recalls are open, schedule service immediately—recall repairs are always free.
  • Consider setting up VIN-specific alerts to receive notification of future recalls.
🛒

If You're Buying Used

  • Request full service history and documentation of all recall completions.
  • Consider whether adjacent model years (2020 or 2022) show better safety metrics.
  • Budget for thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on known problem areas.

This page is designed to help you decide, not alarm you.

Compare with Similar Vehicles

Data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Last updated: January 10, 2026.