Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 1981 Oshkosh S 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
THESE TRUCKS WERE EQUIPPED WITH DEFECTIVE HYDRAULIC PRESSURE SWITCHES IN THE LOAD SPAN TAG SYSTEM. WHEN A MALFUNCTION IN THIS SYSTEM OCCURS, AXLE TO PAVEMENT PRESSURE INCREASES WHEN VEHICLE IS OPERATED IN AN UNLOADED CONDITION.
Remedy
THE EXISTING CONTROL SWITCH WILL BE REPLACED WITH A THREE-POSITION SWITCH WHICH, BY USE OF A NEUTRAL POSITION, WILL PREVE NT PRESSURE BUILDUP. A NEW OPERATION LABEL WILL ALSO BE INCLUDED.
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 Oshkosh S 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.