Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 1981 Mack WL — 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
THE PITMAN ARM, A LEVER THAT TRANSMITS TURNING MOVEMENTS FROM THE STEERING GEAR TO THE STEERING LINKAGE, MAY LOOSEN OR BREAK AT ITS CONNECTION TO THE STEERING LINKAGE. THE FAILURE CAN PREVENT TURNING ATTEMPTS FROM HAVING ANY EFFECT. THE DEFECT IS CAUSED BY INCORRECT ASSEMBLY OF THE BALL STUD CONNECTION IN THE PITMAN ARM.
Remedy
THE DEALER WILL INSTALL A NEW PITMAN ARM BALL ASSEMBLY AT NO CHARGE.
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 WL. 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.