1997 Freightliner FS-65
Only 0 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 0 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1996 | 0 |
| 1997 | 0 |
| 1998 | 1 |
| 1999 | 2 |
| 2000 | 12 |
| 2001 | 12 |
| 2002 | 5 |
| 2005 | 1 |
| 2006 | 0 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
No complaint components on file for this model year.
SAFETY TIMELINE
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: HEAVY DUTY TRUCKS AND SCHOOL BUS CHASSIS BUILT WITH BENDIX AIR ABS WITH AN EC-17 1030R ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT (ECU), THERE HAVE BEEN REPORTS OF UNWANTED ABS ACTIVATION AT LOW SP
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ABS ECU.
Campaign 00V232002 — check if this car was fixed
SCHOOL BUS THROTTLE CABLE
ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUS CHASSIS WITH CUMMINS ISB ENGINES WITH MECHANICAL THROTTLE, THE THROTTLE CABLE CAN VIBRATE EXCESSIVELY AND BREAK NEAR THE END FITTING THAT ATTACHES TO THE ENGINE LINKAGE.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REMOVE AND REPLACE THE THROTTLE CABLE WITH A NEW DESIGN. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 17, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE
Campaign 02V248000 — check if this car was fixed
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.
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 FREIGHTL
Campaign 04V343000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1997 Freightliner FS-65 — pre-purchase inspection
- Verify recall 00V232002 (service brakes, air) has been completed.
- Verify recall 02V248000 (vehicle speed control) has been completed.
- Verify recall 04V343000 (service brakes, hydraulic) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1997 Freightliner FS-65 reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
How many recalls does the 1997 Freightliner FS-65 have?
3 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.