NHTSA Recall 04V343000: Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings (service brakes)
FREIGHTLINER LLC reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 3,200 vehicles. It affects 1996–2002 Freightliner FS-65.
| NHTSA campaign | 04V343000 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer campaign | FL-421 |
| Component | SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC › FOUNDATION COMPONENTS › HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS |
| Report received | July 12, 2004 |
| Owner notification | August 10, 2004 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Defect
On certain school buses chassis equipped with caterpillar engines and hydraulic brakes. A braided ground strap for the starter may rub on a steel chassis brake line potentially causing a fluid leak.
Safety risk
A brake fluid leak can reduce braking effectiveness and increase the stopping distance, which could result in a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the brake line and replace it, if necessary. The braided ground strap will be replaced with an insulated cable. The recall began on august 10, 2004. Owners may contact freightliner at 1-800-547-0712.
Notes
Freightliner recall no. Fl-421.also, customers can contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Vehicles covered by recall 04V343000
Being listed here means the campaign covers the model year, not that every car was built with the defect or is still unrepaired. Enter your VIN above to check your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are free at authorised dealers. Source: NHTSA, October 2026.