Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 1979 Autocar Rb2 — 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
IN THE INVOLVED VEHICLES, THE AIR PRESSURE WHICH IS USED TO ACTUATE THE ENGINE SHUTDOWN SOLENOID MAY BE BLOCKED WHENEVER TRANSMISSION FLUID TEMPERATURE EXCEEDS 250 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT.
Remedy
DEALER WILL INSPECT AND MODIFY THE AIR PLUMBING AS REQUIRED.
Defect
THE METAL STIFFENER AT THE REAR OF THE SPLASH SHIELD MAY BECOME BENT DURING SERVICING OR BY ABUSE. THIS CAN ALLOW THE SPLASH SHIELD AND STIFFENER OR ONE OF ITS ATTACHING BOLTS TO RUB AGAINST AND CUT THE STEERING SHAFT.
Remedy
THE SPLASH SHIELD STIFFENER WILL BE REMOVED AND THE STEERING SHAFT WILL BE REPLACED, IF DAMAGED.
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 1979 Autocar Rb2. 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.