Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 1997 Freightliner Mt35 — 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
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: STEP VANS EQUIPPED WITH SPICER 6,000 OR 8,000 LB. FRONT STEER AXLES. THE TIE ROD END CAN PULL OUTBOARD AND SEPARATE FROM THE TIE ROD TUBE DUE TO IMPROPER THREAD ENGAGEMENT BETWEEN THE MALE TIE ROD END AND THE FEMALE TUBE.
Consequence
SEPARATION OF THE TIE ROD END COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE COMPLETE TIE ROD ASSEMBLY.
Defect
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: HEAVY DUTY TRUCKS. THE HOOK ON THE THROTTLE RETURN SPRINGS CAN FRACTURE AT LOW MILEAGE.
Consequence
THE THROTTLE MAY NOT RETURN TO IDLE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE THROTTLE SPRINGS WITH HEAVIER SPRINGS AND A NEW ANCHOR.
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 1997 Freightliner Mt35. 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.