Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 1981 Mack U Series — 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
CERTAIN VEHICLES MAY BE SUBJECT TO STEERING SHAFT SEPARATION DUE TO LOOSE SET SCREWS IN THE DASH SHEET BEARING WHICH MAY ALLOW THE SHAFT TO MOVE.
Remedy
DEALER WILL INSPECT AND MODIFY THE STEERING SHAFT BY PROVIDING A GREATER SLIP LENGTH IN THE STEERING DRIVE SHAFT TO ELIMINATE SLIP JOINT SEPARATION.
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 1981 Mack U Series. 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.