Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just one complaint on file for the 1997 Freightliner FLD120 — too few to judge reliability from owner reports alone — but one recall campaign applies to this year, so any used example should have its VIN checked for completed recall work.
1
NHTSA complaints
1
Recalls
0
Investigations
0
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
| Component | Complaints | Share | vs prior year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brakes | 1 | 100% | — flat |
1 NHTSA recall campaign on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Defect
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: TRUCK/TRACTORS. THESE VEHICLES DO NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 121, "AIR BRAKE SYSTEMS." CONTINUOUS POWER IS TO BE SUPPLIED TO THE TRAILER ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) CIRCUIT. THESE VEHICLES WERE MANUFACTURED WITH A SWITCH INSTALLED IN THE ABS CIRCUIT.
Consequence
THE ABS CIRCUIT CAN BE INTERRUPTED RESULTING IN A LOSS OF BRAKING ACTION TO THE TOWED VEHICLE INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSTALL AN ANTI-LOCK POWER CIRCUIT.
The record is thin — 1 NHTSA complaint — so owner-report data can't strongly confirm reliability either way, though 1 recall should be verified as completed.
Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign affecting the 1997 Freightliner FLD120. 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.