Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 1978 AM General 10240 — too few to judge reliability from owner reports alone — but 2 recall campaigns apply to this year, so any used example should have its VIN checked for completed recall work.
0
NHTSA complaints
2
Recalls
0
Investigations
0
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
2 NHTSA recall campaigns on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Defect
INFORMATION SUPPLIED ON THE CERTIFICATION PLATE IS INSUFFICIENT AND INACCURATE.
Remedy
THE DEALER WILL INSPECT VEHICLES FOR CORRECT CERTIFICATION INFORMATION AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE EXISTING PLATES WITH CORRECTED PLATES LISTING THE PROPER INFORMATION. THIS WILL BE DONE AT NO CHARGE TO OWNER.
Defect
IF VEHICLE IS INADVERTENTLY DRIVEN WITH THE PARKING BRAKES ENGAGED, SEVERE OVERHEATING OF THE CAST IRON BRAKE DRUM MAY OCCUR.
Remedy
THE DEFECTIVE BRAKE DRUMS WILL BE REPLACED BY THE DEALER, WITHOUT CHARGE.
The record is thin — 0 NHTSA complaints — so owner-report data can't strongly confirm reliability either way, though 2 recalls should be verified as completed.
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recall campaigns affecting the 1978 AM General 10240. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers; check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm the work was done.
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.