Investigation PE11002: 2005–2007 Sterling L-Line

Status

CLOSED

Opened

Jan 11, 2011

Closed

Mar 17, 2011

Model years

2005–2007

Subject

Fuel Leak

Component: Fuel system, diesel

Summary

ODI gathered information from four auto hauler fleets during its investigation.At least five of the fleets' vehicles were damaged or completely destroyed by a fire caused by a leak in low pressure fuel line.The fleets reported numerous other failures that spilled large quantities of diesel fuel on roadways and disabled tractor trailers.Daimler Trucks North America submitteda recall notice on 24 February 2011.Daimler's announcement of a safety recall on this matter addresses ODI's concerns.The 573 letter was received prior to the due date of the IR response, therefore Daimler has been relieved from having to submit an IR response.Daimler will replace the upper and lower low pressure fuel lines with a more robust line.The exact remedy and replacement parts are not yet finalized.Daimler will be submitting a supplemental report when the information is available.ODI will closely monitor the remedy to ensure it is adequate.The subject vehicles have been recalled, therefore this investigation is closed.

An NHTSA investigation looks into whether a safety defect exists. Opening one is not a finding. Outcomes can include a recall, closure without action, or further inquiry.