Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 1971 Mack R — too few to judge reliability from owner reports alone — but 9 recall campaigns apply to this year, so any used example should have its VIN checked for completed recall work.
0
NHTSA complaints
9
Recalls
0
Investigations
0
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
9 NHTSA recall campaigns on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Defect
DEFICIENCIES, IN THE FORM OF FORGING LAPS, CRACKS AND EXCESSIVE DECARBURIZATION DURING HEAT TREATMENT, EXIST IN THE STEERING KNUCKLES. STRESSES IMPOSED WITH INTEGRAL HYDRAULIC POWER STEERING MAY LEAD TO A FAILURE IN THE AREA OF THE STEERING ARM ATTACHING BOSS. THIS TYPE OF FAILURE WOULD CAUSE LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL.
Remedy
DEALER WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE LEFT STEERING KNUCKLE WITH AN IMPROVED TYPE OF KNUCKLE.
The record is thin — 0 NHTSA complaints — so owner-report data can't strongly confirm reliability either way, though 9 recalls should be verified as completed.
Yes — NHTSA lists 9 recall campaigns affecting the 1971 Mack R. 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.