27,000 Western Star trucks recalled again after previous fix failed to correct battery related “thermal event”

Almost 27,000 Western Star trucks are being recalled again after the initial recall fix failed to fix an issue related to a battery “thermal event.”

Daimler Truck North America has issued a recall for 2020-2027 Western Star 49X and 2021-2027 Western Star 47X trucks – a potential 26,958 rigs. Daimler estimates that about 1% of the trucks that fall under the recall have the defect. 

The issue involves a stud connecting the battery to the starter along the frame that may have been installed incorrectly. The incorrect installation may cause a short circuit which can lead to a “thermal event” such as a fire.

Daimler issued a recall for this issue in 2025, but the repair conducted that time was not sufficient to fix the issue. Signs that the truck may have the issue include a slow crank or no crank when starting the truck, and/or corrosion present around the stud or cable lug. 

Currently, there have been 52 warranty claims and 18 official field reports related to the defect between March 2023 and January 2026. No injuries have been reported.