1998–2000 Western Star 4800, 1998–2000 Western Star 4900, 1998–2000 Western Star 5800 and 2 other models Recall: ON CERTAIN TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH CATERPILLAR 3406E AND C-15 ENGINES…
NHTSA campaign 01V387000 · Electrical System · filed Dec 17, 2001 · verified Jul 30, 2026
The defect
ON CERTAIN TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH CATERPILLAR 3406E AND C-15 ENGINES, INTERFERENCE BETWEEN THE POSITIVE BATTERY CABLE AND STUD MOUNTING ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE (ECM) TO THE ENGINE EXISTS. CHAFING CAN WEAR THROUGH THE BATTERY CABLE INSULATION TO ALLOW CONTACT BETWEEN THE BATTERY CABLE AND THE STUD.
The risk
THIS CONTACT COULD PROVIDE A SHORT CIRCUIT, WHICH MAY CAUSE A FIRE.
Check whether your specific vehicle is affected
Recall campaigns often cover only certain VIN ranges. Enter your VIN on the official NHTSA site to confirm whether your vehicle is included and whether the repair is still open.
Check VIN on NHTSA →The fix — what to do
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE VEHICLES AND THE BATTERY CABLES WILL BE REPLACED AND/OR RE-ROUTED AS NECESSARY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN APRIL 18, 2002. 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).
Affected vehicles
| Make | Model | Model years |
|---|---|---|
| Western Star | 4800 | 1998, 1999, 2000 |
| Western Star | 4900 | 1998, 1999, 2000 |
| Western Star | 5800 | 1998, 1999, 2000 |
| Western Star | 5900 | 1998, 1999, 2000 |
| Western Star | 6900 | 1998, 1999, 2000 |
Related recalls
More Western Star 4800 recalls
- 2014–2017 Freightliner 108SD and 7 other models — These vehicles specify a front axle weight limit that may…
- 2015 Western Star 4700 and 2 other models — In the affected vehicles, the speedometer may not operate…
- 2000 Freightliner FLD and 7 other models — VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: HEAVY DUTY TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH…
Other campaigns involving Western Star vehicles
- 2021–2027 Western Star 47X and 1 other model — A stud connecting the battery to the starter at the frame…
- 2020–2026 Freightliner 108SD and 7 other models — Axle clamp fasteners may be loose, which can result in a…
- 2025–2026 FCCC MT45G and 11 other models — Tie rod castle nut and cotter pin may not be installed…
All Western Star 4800 recalls → · All Western Star recalls →
Source: NHTSA recall database, campaign 01V387000 (manufacturer number FL-387). Data last verified Jul 30, 2026.