Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 1997 Freightliner Mt55 — 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.
0
NHTSA complaints
1
Recalls
0
Investigations
0
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
1 NHTSA recall campaign on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Defect
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: HEAVY DUTY TRUCKS. THE THROTTLE CABLE CAN BIND DUE TO MISALIGNMENT WITH THE FUEL PUMP ASSEMBLY.
Consequence
ENGINE SPEED WILL NOT RETURN TO IDLE AFTER THE DRIVER RELEASES THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL IF THE CABLE IS BINDING.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REALIGN THE CABLE BRACKET. THE CABLE ASSEMBLY WILL BE INSPECTED FOR DAMAGE AND REPLACED AS NECESSARY.
The record is thin — 0 NHTSA complaints — 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 Mt55. 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.