Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2017 Freightliner Business Class M2
The 2017 Freightliner Business Class M2 has several recalls related to transmission, electrical systems, steering, brakes, and lighting. It suffers from potential engine software issues that may cause unexpected shutdowns. Despite these concerns, if all recall-related repairs are verified, it can still be a reliable used vehicle option for business purposes.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2017 Freightliner Business Class M2 has 15 NHTSA recall campaigns and 1 owner complaint on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #24V924000 Unexpected Engine Shutdown NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V484000 License Plate Not Illuminated Properly NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V067000 Transmission Fluid Leak NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V466000 Engine Harness May Contact and Chafe NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V214000 Reflective Tape May be Partially Covered/FMVSS 108 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V913000 Steering and Tie Rod Arm Bolts may be Loose NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V353000 Improperly Torqued Caliper Mounting Bolts NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V251000 Incorrect Brake Caliper Orientation NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V402000 Check Valve Missing from Air Brake System NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V043000 Unresponsive Instrument Clusters and Turn Signals NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V824000 Incomplete Adhesion may cause Tread Separation NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V666000 Instrument Cluster Warning Incorrect/FMVSS 101/105 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V658000 Incorrectly Torqued Brake Caliper Mounting Bolts NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V634000 Axle Capacity may Exceed Hub Capacity NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V206000 Reduced Braking Power NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Service Brakes 1 complaint
The complaint on file reports a crash, with 1 death (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Engine may shut down unexpectedly
How to check: Inquire about ECM software updates from recalls.
Transmission fluid may leak
How to check: Inspect for fluid leaks around cooler lines.
Wiring may short circuit
How to check: Inspect engine harness for chafing damage.
Loose steering and tie rod arm bolts
How to check: Check bolts' tightness during test drive inspection.
Caliper bolts may be loose
How to check: Verify caliper bolt tightness visually and by touch.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unexpected engine noises during startup.
Red flag: Loud knocking or hesitations.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Monitor instrument cluster for warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent check engine light.
- 03
Low-speed maneuvering
What to check: Feel for steering wheel vibrations.
Red flag: Excessive vibrations or slippage.
- 04
City driving
What to check: Test all lighting systems' functionality.
Red flag: Non-functional exterior lights.
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Listen for unusual engine or transmission noises.
Red flag: Grinding or excessive whining.
- 06
Braking test
What to check: Feel for pulsations or pulling to one side.
Red flag: Uneven braking or long stopping distances.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the engine control software been updated?
- Were any transmission leaks repaired recently?
- Has the wiring harness been inspected or repaired?
- Are there any unresolved recalls for this truck?
- Have the brake calipers been checked for mounting?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Service history
- Original purchase agreement
- Warranty documentation
- Emission compliance certificate
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2017 Freightliner Business Class M2 at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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