Major Truck Recalls Highlight Why Carrier Safety Standards Matter More Than Ever

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has announced a new wave of recalls affecting more than 18,000 trucks across three major manufacturers—International, Mack, and Volvo.  While recalls are not uncommon in the trucking industry, the scope of these latest issues reinforces a much bigger message: fleet safety and proactive maintenance are non-negotiable.

For shippers, brokers, and supply chain partners, these recalls serve as an important reminder to evaluate who is handling your freight—and how seriously they take safety and compliance.

Below is a breakdown of the latest manufacturer recalls and what they signify for the industry.

International Recalls Over 11,000 LT and RH Trucks

International is recalling 11,418 trucks from model years 2023–2026.  The issue centers around the auto-neutral function failing to detect when the parking brake is set.  If the transmission doesn’t shift into neutral as intended, the risk of unintended vehicle movement increases—an obvious and serious hazard in yards, docks, and terminals.

Fix: Dealers will replace the quick-release valve on the rear axle at no cost.  Notifications to owners are expected January 19, 2026.

This notice follows another recall involving the same models just days prior—a sign of increased scrutiny around transmission- and brake-related systems.

Mack Trucks: Two Recalls Covering Load Locks and High-Beam Compliance

Mack announced two separate recalls:

1. Load Lock Clamp Failure (46 Trucks)

Certain 2025–2026 Pioneer trucks may have load lock clamps that loosen, risking unsecured load lock bars.  While small in quantity, the safety risk is significant—any equipment failure near the cab can become a distraction or a hazard for the driver and surrounding motorists.

2. Automatic High-Beam Malfunction (247 Trucks)

Additional recalls affect 2026 Anthem and 2025–2026 Pioneer models.  The automatic high beams (AHB) may not switch to low beams, creating glare that violates Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 108.

Interim Fix: An OTA update will temporarily disable the AHB system until a final remedy is ready.

Volvo Trucks: Load Lock and High-Beam Issues Impacting 6,700+ Vehicles

Like Mack, Volvo has issued two recalls:

1. Load Lock Clamp Issue (1,859 Trucks)

Volvo’s VNL (model years 2024–2026) faces the same clamp-loosening problem observed in Mack’s recall.  Dealers will replace the clamps at no charge.

2. Automatic High-Beam Malfunction (4,887 Trucks)

Certain VNR (2026) and VNL (2024–2026) trucks may fail to switch high beams to low as intended.  Owners will receive an OTA software update disabling the feature until the final solution is developed.

What These Recalls Really Mean for the Trucking Industry

Mechanical failures are never just mechanical issues — they are supply chain risks.
Unexpected downtime, safety hazards, crashes, DOT penalties, delayed deliveries, and insurance complications can all stem from equipment that isn’t properly maintained or inspected.

Fleet operators who rely solely on OEM alerts or reactive repairs put themselves—and their customers—at risk.

This is where disciplined, structured safety programs make a measurable difference.

Why Carriers Like Road Scholar Transport Stand Apart

At Road Scholar Transport, preparation and safety aren’t periodic tasks—they’re daily commitments.  Every mile our fleet travels is backed by a rigorous preventative maintenance culture that goes far beyond minimum requirements.

Here’s what sets Road Scholar apart:

  • Zero citations for faulty equipment in any accident—ever.
  • Daily pre-trip and post-trip inspections performed by every driver, every day.
  • Strict protocols requiring drivers to report any equipment issue immediately—and trucks do not roll until repairs are made.
  • Routine internal audits covering tires, wheels, brakes, lights, engines, mirrors, HOS compliance, and more.
  • Safety-first operations supported by a dedicated safety department and asset-based fleet control.

Many carriers claim to value safety; Road Scholar proves it through action, investment, and results.

The Takeaway for Shippers

NHTSA’s large-scale recalls are a wake-up call:  Not all carriers maintain their equipment to the same standard.

With Road Scholar Transport, customers gain confidence knowing:

✔ Equipment is reliable
✔ Drivers are trained and supported
✔ Safety is embedded in every operational process
✔ Freight isn’t just delivered—it’s protected

Because the real message behind these recalls is simple: Nothing should go on the road unless it’s 100% safe.

 

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