Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 1997 Mack CL — 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: CLASS 8 HEAVY DUTY TRUCKS. DURING ASSEMBLY, INSUFFICIENT TORQUE OCCURRED OF THE DRAG LINK TO THE AXLE STEERING ARM CONNECTION. IF THE DRAG LINK TO AXLE STTERING ARM CONNECTION IS NOT TORQUED AND THE COTTER PIN IS NOT INSTALLED, THE NUT COULD BACK OFF DURING VEHICLE OPERATION.
Consequence
IF THE NUT BACKS OFF, THERE COULD BE A LOSS OF DRIVER CONTROL.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL RETORQUE THE DRAG LINK TO THE AXLE STEERING ARM CONNECTION.
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 Mack CL. 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.