The Mack RD spans 1981–2005 with 48 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 3.5/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 2000, 1987, 1996 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 1981, 1982, 1983. It delivers competitive fuel economy and NHTSA-rated safety.
How we score: NHTSA crash-test safety (40%), recall frequency across all years (25%) and the share of owner complaints involving a crash, fire or injury (35%). Based on NHTSA & EPA data — not user reviews.
Overview
The Mack RD is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 1981 to 2005 across multiple generations.
Decode or check a Mack RD by VIN
Enter a 17-digit VIN to decode this Mack RD — trim, engine, plant and full specs — and instantly pull its open recalls, safety ratings and original window sticker.
How to read a Mack RD VIN — every digit explained
Every Mack RD carries a unique 17-character VIN stamped at the factory. Each position is a code — together they spell out where, when and how your car was built. Here's exactly what every digit means.
- WMI (1–3) — country & manufacturer. 4T1 = Toyota, built in the USA.
- VDS (4–8) — model line, body style, engine & restraint system.
- Check digit (9) — a math check that proves the VIN is genuine.
- Model year (10) — the year it was built. H = 2017.
- Plant (11) — which factory assembled this RD.
- Serial (12–17) — the unique sequential production number.
Model-year code (10th digit)
The 10th character is the model year. It cycles through letters and numbers, skipping I, O, Q, U, Z and 0 to avoid confusion:
Where to find your RD VIN
- Dashboard — driver's side, visible through the windshield from outside.
- Driver's door jamb — on the manufacturer sticker when you open the door.
- Paperwork — vehicle registration, title and insurance card.
- Engine bay & frame — stamped on the firewall or chassis on many models.
How many recalls does the Mack RD have?
The Mack RD has 48 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1981–2005. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.
2004 Mack RD recalls 3
Suspension
What's wrong. On certain heavy duty class 8 trucks equipped with holland air suspension systems, a transverse beam casting may fracture under normal loads. If a casting breaks when the vehicle is traveling on a roadway there is the potential for pieces of the casting to become projectiles and the suspension's transverse beam may drop down low enough to contact the road surface.
Risk. This will cause sparks that could potentially ignite and cause a fire.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the defective transverse beam assemblies. The recall began on august 19, 2005. Owners may contact mack trucks at 610-709-2131.
Power Train:axle Assembly
What's wrong. Mack is recalling 10,300 model year 2004 and 2005 cl, cv, dm, le, and rb and model year 2004 rd heavy trucks manufactured from october 1, 2003 through september 30, 2004, equipped with axle beams manufactured by bharat forge. The axle beam may have transverse shear lines on the bottom of the axle from the trimming process.
Risk. These lines, if present, can promote initiation of cracks, which over time may possibly lead to axle beam failure and a vehicle crash can occur.
Fix. Mack will notify owners, inspect and replace any affected axle beams free of charge. The safety recall began on august 14, 2009. Owners may contact mack at 1-800-866-1177.
Power Train:axle Assembly
What's wrong. Mack trucks is recalling certain model year 2002 through 2004 cl, cv, le, mr, rb, rd, and model year 2003 through 2004 dm heavy trucks manufactured from february 1, 2002 through september 30, 2003, equipped with axle beams manufactured by bharat forge. The axle beam may have transverse shear lines on the bottom of the axle from the trimming process.
Risk. These lines, if present, can promote initiation of cracks, which over time may possibly lead to axle beam failure and a vehicle crash can occur.
Fix. Mack will notify owners, inspect and replace any affected axle beams free of charge. The safety recall began on march 5, 2010. Owners may contact mack at 1-800-866-1177.
2003 Mack RD recalls 1
Power Train:axle Assembly
What's wrong. Mack trucks is recalling certain model year 2002 through 2004 cl, cv, le, mr, rb, rd, and model year 2003 through 2004 dm heavy trucks manufactured from february 1, 2002 through september 30, 2003, equipped with axle beams manufactured by bharat forge. The axle beam may have transverse shear lines on the bottom of the axle from the trimming process.
Risk. These lines, if present, can promote initiation of cracks, which over time may possibly lead to axle beam failure and a vehicle crash can occur.
Fix. Mack will notify owners, inspect and replace any affected axle beams free of charge. The safety recall began on march 5, 2010. Owners may contact mack at 1-800-866-1177.
2002 Mack RD recalls 3
Service Brakes, Air:drum
What's wrong. On certain class 8 chassis built with hendrickson lift axles which contained webb brake drums, the brake drums could experience premature crack of the braking surface resulting in reduction or complete loss of braking on that wheel end or loss of brake drum pieces.
Risk. Loss of braking ability could result in a vehicle crash, possibly causing injuries or death.
Fix. Webb wheel is conducting the owner notification and remedy for this campaign. Webb will notify customers, inspect the brake drums and replace any drums that fail inspection. Owners should contact webb at 1-800-633-3256 or mack at 1-610-709-3337.
Suspension:rear
What's wrong. On certain heavy duty trucks equipped with dana spicer tandem drive axle models ds463, an undersized attachment weld may fracture without warning.
Risk. The loss of this attachment to the vehicle chassis can adversely affect vehicle handling or driver control.
Fix. The dealers will remove the suspect bracket, inspect the axle housing, and reweld the bracket to the axle housing. Owner notification began april 22, 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact mack at 610-709-3337.
Power Train:axle Assembly
What's wrong. Mack trucks is recalling certain model year 2002 through 2004 cl, cv, le, mr, rb, rd, and model year 2003 through 2004 dm heavy trucks manufactured from february 1, 2002 through september 30, 2003, equipped with axle beams manufactured by bharat forge. The axle beam may have transverse shear lines on the bottom of the axle from the trimming process.
Risk. These lines, if present, can promote initiation of cracks, which over time may possibly lead to axle beam failure and a vehicle crash can occur.
Fix. Mack will notify owners, inspect and replace any affected axle beams free of charge. The safety recall began on march 5, 2010. Owners may contact mack at 1-800-866-1177.
2001 Mack RD recalls 5
Steering:hydraulic Power Assist:pump
What's wrong. Vehicle description: trucks equipped with e-tech engines. A condition exists on the auxiliary drive shaft of the e-tech engine that causes the loss of power steering on vehicles where the power steering pump is mounted off the front of the engine.
Risk. This could result in the loss of power steering.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the vehicles and replace the nut that holds the gear to the auxiliary drive shaft. Owner notification began march 22, 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact mack at 1-610-709-3011.
Suspension:front:springs:coil Springs
What's wrong. Vehicle description: class a heavy duty trucks with 18,000 lb. Front axles may have front springs installed that are rated for the 14,600 lb. Front axle.
Risk. Front spring failure could result in loss of vehicle control.
Fix. Dealers will replace both springs. Owner notification began december 26, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact mack at 1-610-709-3011.
Service Brakes, Air:drum
What's wrong. On certain class 8 chassis built with hendrickson lift axles which contained webb brake drums, the brake drums could experience premature crack of the braking surface resulting in reduction or complete loss of braking on that wheel end or loss of brake drum pieces.
Risk. Loss of braking ability could result in a vehicle crash, possibly causing injuries or death.
Fix. Webb wheel is conducting the owner notification and remedy for this campaign. Webb will notify customers, inspect the brake drums and replace any drums that fail inspection. Owners should contact webb at 1-800-633-3256 or mack at 1-610-709-3337.
Service Brakes, Air:controls, Pedals And Linkages
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with certain meritor-wabco brake system two and four port relay valves. The valve may stick open when a high-pressure application is released.
Risk. When the valve sticks open, it can result in a total loss of air from either the service or the park brake system. The driver may lose braking ability under a service application, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
Fix. Dealers will replace these valves. Owner notification began november 16, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact mack at 1-610-709-3011 or meritor wabco at 800-535-5560.
Suspension:rear
What's wrong. On certain heavy duty trucks equipped with dana spicer tandem drive axle models ds463, an undersized attachment weld may fracture without warning.
Risk. The loss of this attachment to the vehicle chassis can adversely affect vehicle handling or driver control.
Fix. The dealers will remove the suspect bracket, inspect the axle housing, and reweld the bracket to the axle housing. Owner notification began april 22, 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact mack at 610-709-3337.
2000 Mack RD recalls 5
Suspension:front:springs:coil Springs
What's wrong. Vehicle description: class a heavy duty trucks with 18,000 lb. Front axles may have front springs installed that are rated for the 14,600 lb. Front axle.
Risk. Front spring failure could result in loss of vehicle control.
Fix. Dealers will replace both springs. Owner notification began december 26, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact mack at 1-610-709-3011.
Steering:linkages:tie Rod Assembly
What's wrong. On some heavy duty class 8 vehicles equipped with arvinmeritor axle assemblies which may have been manufactured with trw model 20edl ball sockets, the tie rod ball-socket bearings have a below specification case depth and/or hardness which can lead to premature wear out of the socket in some applications.
Risk. If this condition occurs, the driver can lose steering control, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
Fix. Dealers will replace the ball socket assemblies. This campaign will supersede nhtsa recall nos. 01v-140-005 (mack sc0270) and 00v-246-103 (mack sc0262). Owner notification began december 27, 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact mack at 610-709-3337.
Vehicle Speed Control:accelerator Pedal
What's wrong. Vehicle description: class 8 trucks equipped with felsted electronic accelerator pedals. The return springs can break on the accelerator pedals that are equipped with stainless steel or electroplated wire return springs.
Risk. This condition could cause the pedal to go to full throttle if both return springs break, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Replacement accelerator pedals equipped with return springs manufactured of music wire with one additional coil on each spring and with an organic coating, eliminating electroplating will be installed.
Service Brakes, Air:controls, Pedals And Linkages
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with certain meritor-wabco brake system two and four port relay valves. The valve may stick open when a high-pressure application is released.
Risk. When the valve sticks open, it can result in a total loss of air from either the service or the park brake system. The driver may lose braking ability under a service application, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
Fix. Dealers will replace these valves. Owner notification began november 16, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact mack at 1-610-709-3011 or meritor wabco at 800-535-5560.
Suspension:rear
What's wrong. On certain heavy duty trucks equipped with dana spicer tandem drive axle models ds463, an undersized attachment weld may fracture without warning.
Risk. The loss of this attachment to the vehicle chassis can adversely affect vehicle handling or driver control.
Fix. The dealers will remove the suspect bracket, inspect the axle housing, and reweld the bracket to the axle housing. Owner notification began april 22, 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact mack at 610-709-3337.
1999 Mack RD recalls 4
Steering:linkages:tie Rod Assembly
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with trw tie rod ends on certain meritor axles. The tie rod and drag link ball stud ends contain bearings that are below the specified case depth and/or hardness.
Risk. This can lead to premature wear with possible separation of the ball stud from the socket, increasing the risk of loss of control of the vehicle.
Fix. Dealers will remove and replace all affected tie rods and drag links with different designed ends.
Steering:linkages:tie Rod Assembly
What's wrong. On some heavy duty class 8 vehicles equipped with arvinmeritor axle assemblies which may have been manufactured with trw model 20edl ball sockets, the tie rod ball-socket bearings have a below specification case depth and/or hardness which can lead to premature wear out of the socket in some applications.
Risk. If this condition occurs, the driver can lose steering control, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
Fix. Dealers will replace the ball socket assemblies. This campaign will supersede nhtsa recall nos. 01v-140-005 (mack sc0270) and 00v-246-103 (mack sc0262). Owner notification began december 27, 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact mack at 610-709-3337.
Vehicle Speed Control:accelerator Pedal
What's wrong. Vehicle description: class 8 trucks equipped with felsted electronic accelerator pedals. The return springs can break on the accelerator pedals that are equipped with stainless steel or electroplated wire return springs.
Risk. This condition could cause the pedal to go to full throttle if both return springs break, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Replacement accelerator pedals equipped with return springs manufactured of music wire with one additional coil on each spring and with an organic coating, eliminating electroplating will be installed.
Suspension:rear
What's wrong. On certain heavy duty trucks equipped with dana spicer tandem drive axle models ds463, an undersized attachment weld may fracture without warning.
Risk. The loss of this attachment to the vehicle chassis can adversely affect vehicle handling or driver control.
Fix. The dealers will remove the suspect bracket, inspect the axle housing, and reweld the bracket to the axle housing. Owner notification began april 22, 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact mack at 610-709-3337.
1998 Mack RD recalls 2
Suspension:front:wheel Bearing
What's wrong. Vehicle description: class 8 heavy duty truck chassis equipped with mack 16,000 lb., 18,000 lb., or 20,000 lb. Heavy duty steering axles. The inner wheel bearing cone for the steering axle wheel hub assembly does not properly fit onto the mack steering axle spindle assembly. Improper fit of the bearing to the spindle increases the stress levels to the steering axle spindle which could cause spindle failure.
Risk. If the spindle fails, a loss of driver control could occur, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Fix. Dealers will remove the left and right hub/drum assemblies from the steering axles and replace the inner wheel bearing cones and cups.
Suspension:rear
What's wrong. On certain heavy duty trucks equipped with dana spicer tandem drive axle models ds463, an undersized attachment weld may fracture without warning.
Risk. The loss of this attachment to the vehicle chassis can adversely affect vehicle handling or driver control.
Fix. The dealers will remove the suspect bracket, inspect the axle housing, and reweld the bracket to the axle housing. Owner notification began april 22, 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact mack at 610-709-3337.
1995 Mack RD recalls 1
Service Brakes, Air:supply:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
What's wrong. Air system blockage in the air dryer occurs degrading the moisture removing capabilities of the dryer when the vehicle is operated in a cold environment and moisture accumulates and freezes in the air dryer or in the line between the dryer and the air system reservoir. The air dryer can become overpressurized causing the air dryer cartridge to separate from the mounting base.
Risk. If the air dryer separates from the base, the cartridge can separate sufficiently enough to cause personal injury or property damage.
Fix. Dealers will equip air systems with a pressure relief valve to be located between the compressor and the air dryer. This pressure relief valve is intended to vent if excessive pressure develops in the air dryer.
1994 Mack RD recalls 2
Steering:gear Box (other Than Rack And Pinion)
What's wrong. The steering gearbox mounting fasteners were not properly heat treated.
Risk. The fastener washers can crack, ultimately resulting in gearbox mounting assembly failure and loss of steering control.
Fix. Dealers will replace the suspect washers with new, improved washers.
Service Brakes, Air:supply:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
What's wrong. Air system blockage in the air dryer occurs degrading the moisture removing capabilities of the dryer when the vehicle is operated in a cold environment and moisture accumulates and freezes in the air dryer or in the line between the dryer and the air system reservoir. The air dryer can become overpressurized causing the air dryer cartridge to separate from the mounting base.
Risk. If the air dryer separates from the base, the cartridge can separate sufficiently enough to cause personal injury or property damage.
Fix. Dealers will equip air systems with a pressure relief valve to be located between the compressor and the air dryer. This pressure relief valve is intended to vent if excessive pressure develops in the air dryer.
1993 Mack RD recalls 3
Service Brakes, Air:supply:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
What's wrong. Air system blockage in the air dryer occurs degrading the moisture removing capabilities of the dryer when the vehicle is operated in a cold environment and moisture accumulates and freezes in the air dryer or in the line between the dryer and the air system reservoir. The air dryer can become overpressurized causing the air dryer cartridge to separate from the mounting base.
Risk. If the air dryer separates from the base, the cartridge can separate sufficiently enough to cause personal injury or property damage.
Fix. Dealers will equip air systems with a pressure relief valve to be located between the compressor and the air dryer. This pressure relief valve is intended to vent if excessive pressure develops in the air dryer.
Trailer Hitches
What's wrong. The carrier yoke bolts were manufactured with worn rolling thread dies, causing stress concentrations which caused cracks during the quenching process.
Risk. This condition can cause bolt failure and allow thedriveline to separate from the carrier assembly.
Fix. Replace the carrier yoke bolts.
Wheels
What's wrong. These wheels are composed of 2 pieces - a disc and a rim which are normally welded together. These wheels lack the specified fillet welds.
Risk. If wheel separation occurs while the vehicle is inmotion, both steering and braking could be affected resulting in a vehiclecrash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the manufacturing codes stamped on each wheel and if a wheel falls within the specified date code range, the dealer will replace that wheel.
1992 Mack RD recalls 3
Vehicle Speed Control
What's wrong. Fuel injection system reconfiguration to comply with engine emission standards cause higher engine vibration levels which lead to early wear and complete failure of the secondary throttle return mechanism.
Risk. In the event the primary throttle return fails, failure of the secondary throttle return system would not provide protection against loss of throttle control.
Fix. A new production secondary throttle return system configuration will be installed.
Service Brakes, Air:supply:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
What's wrong. Air system blockage in the air dryer occurs degrading the moisture removing capabilities of the dryer when the vehicle is operated in a cold environment and moisture accumulates and freezes in the air dryer or in the line between the dryer and the air system reservoir. The air dryer can become overpressurized causing the air dryer cartridge to separate from the mounting base.
Risk. If the air dryer separates from the base, the cartridge can separate sufficiently enough to cause personal injury or property damage.
Fix. Dealers will equip air systems with a pressure relief valve to be located between the compressor and the air dryer. This pressure relief valve is intended to vent if excessive pressure develops in the air dryer.
Trailer Hitches
What's wrong. The carrier yoke bolts were manufactured with worn rolling thread dies, causing stress concentrations which caused cracks during the quenching process.
Risk. This condition can cause bolt failure and allow thedriveline to separate from the carrier assembly.
Fix. Replace the carrier yoke bolts.
1991 Mack RD recalls 1
Vehicle Speed Control
What's wrong. Fuel injection system reconfiguration to comply with engine emission standards cause higher engine vibration levels which lead to early wear and complete failure of the secondary throttle return mechanism.
Risk. In the event the primary throttle return fails, failure of the secondary throttle return system would not provide protection against loss of throttle control.
Fix. A new production secondary throttle return system configuration will be installed.
1990 Mack RD recalls 2
Vehicle Speed Control
What's wrong. Fuel injection system reconfiguration to comply with engine emission standards cause higher engine vibration levels which lead to early wear and complete failure of the secondary throttle return mechanism.
Risk. In the event the primary throttle return fails, failure of the secondary throttle return system would not provide protection against loss of throttle control.
Fix. A new production secondary throttle return system configuration will be installed.
Steering:linkages
What's wrong. The steering arm can develop cracks causing the lever to break without warning.
Risk. This can result in loss of steering control and an accident.
Fix. Dealers will replace the steering levers with an improved steering lever with increased fatigue strength.
1989 Mack RD recalls 3
Visibility:windshield Wiper/washer:linkages
What's wrong. A tolerance mismatch in the crank assembly of the bosch windshield wiper motor could cause instantaneous separation of the crank from the linkage assembly in the left hand control arm assembly; this would make the system inoperable.
Risk. Wiper failure during vehicle operation could reduce driver's ability to see the road, and creates a potential for an accident.
Fix. Replace left hand control arm linkage assembly.
Steering:gear Box:shaft Sector
What's wrong. Interference between steering gear sector shaft and the frame rail through hole can cause sector shaft wear and can weaken shaft cause it to break.
Risk. Shaft failure during vehicle operation would cause loss of steering control and a crash without prior warning.
Fix. Enlarge frame rail through hole to prevent interference: replace steering gear sector shaft if scored.
Vehicle Speed Control
What's wrong. Fuel injection system reconfiguration to comply with engine emission standards cause higher engine vibration levels which lead to early wear and complete failure of the secondary throttle return mechanism.
Risk. In the event the primary throttle return fails, failure of the secondary throttle return system would not provide protection against loss of throttle control.
Fix. A new production secondary throttle return system configuration will be installed.
1988 Mack RD recalls 2
Steering:linkages
What's wrong. Crack may develop on steering arm that could progress and reduce the fatigue life of the steering arm.
Risk. Steering arm could fail without warning resulting in loss of steering control and possibly a crash.
Fix. Install a redesigned steering arm.
Vehicle Speed Control
What's wrong. Fuel injection system reconfiguration to comply with engine emission standards cause higher engine vibration levels which lead to early wear and complete failure of the secondary throttle return mechanism.
Risk. In the event the primary throttle return fails, failure of the secondary throttle return system would not provide protection against loss of throttle control.
Fix. A new production secondary throttle return system configuration will be installed.
1987 Mack RD recalls 2
Steering:linkages
What's wrong. Crack may develop on steering arm that could progress and reduce the fatigue life of the steering arm.
Risk. Steering arm could fail without warning resulting in loss of steering control and possibly a crash.
Fix. Install a redesigned steering arm.
Vehicle Speed Control
What's wrong. Fuel injection system reconfiguration to comply with engine emission standards cause higher engine vibration levels which lead to early wear and complete failure of the secondary throttle return mechanism.
Risk. In the event the primary throttle return fails, failure of the secondary throttle return system would not provide protection against loss of throttle control.
Fix. A new production secondary throttle return system configuration will be installed.
1986 Mack RD recalls 1
Steering:linkages
What's wrong. Crack may develop on steering arm that could progress and reduce the fatigue life of the steering arm.
Risk. Steering arm could fail without warning resulting in loss of steering control and possibly a crash.
Fix. Install a redesigned steering arm.
1985 Mack RD recalls 1
Steering:linkages
What's wrong. Crack may develop on steering arm that could progress and reduce the fatigue life of the steering arm.
Risk. Steering arm could fail without warning resulting in loss of steering control and possibly a crash.
Fix. Install a redesigned steering arm.
1984 Mack RD recalls 1
Steering:linkages
What's wrong. Crack may develop on steering arm that could progress and reduce the fatigue life of the steering arm.
Risk. Steering arm could fail without warning resulting in loss of steering control and possibly a crash.
Fix. Install a redesigned steering arm.
1983 Mack RD recalls 1
Steering:linkages
What's wrong. Crack may develop on steering arm that could progress and reduce the fatigue life of the steering arm.
Risk. Steering arm could fail without warning resulting in loss of steering control and possibly a crash.
Fix. Install a redesigned steering arm.
1982 Mack RD recalls 1
Steering:linkages
What's wrong. Crack may develop on steering arm that could progress and reduce the fatigue life of the steering arm.
Risk. Steering arm could fail without warning resulting in loss of steering control and possibly a crash.
Fix. Install a redesigned steering arm.
1981 Mack RD recalls 1
Steering:linkages
What's wrong. Crack may develop on steering arm that could progress and reduce the fatigue life of the steering arm.
Risk. Steering arm could fail without warning resulting in loss of steering control and possibly a crash.
Fix. Install a redesigned steering arm.
Best and worst years for the Mack RD
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 25 tracked years, the worst years are 2000, 1987, 1996 and the best (fewest complaints) are 1981, 1982, 1983.
ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.
| Year | Owner complaints | Top issue | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1981 RD | 0 | — | Best |
| 1982 RD | 0 | — | Best |
| 1983 RD | 0 | — | Best |
| 1984 RD | 0 | — | Average |
| 1985 RD | 0 | — | Average |
| 1986 RD | 0 | — | Average |
| 1987 RD | 2 | Equipment | Avoid |
| 1988 RD | 0 | — | Average |
| 1989 RD | 0 | — | Average |
| 1990 RD | 0 | — | Average |
| 1991 RD | 0 | — | Average |
| 1992 RD | 0 | — | Average |
| 1993 RD | 0 | — | Average |
| 1994 RD | 0 | — | Average |
| 1995 RD | 0 | — | Average |
| 1996 RD | 1 | Fuel System | Avoid |
| 1997 RD | 0 | — | Average |
| 1998 RD | 0 | — | Average |
| 1999 RD | 0 | — | Average |
| 2000 RD | 2 | Suspension | Avoid |
| 2001 RD | 0 | — | Average |
| 2002 RD | 0 | — | Average |
| 2003 RD | 0 | — | Average |
| 2004 RD | 0 | — | Average |
| 2005 RD | 0 | — | Average |
What are the most common Mack RD problems?
The most-reported Mack RD problems are Air (1 reports), Gasoline (2 reports) and Equipment (1 reports) — out of 5 owner complaints NHTSA holds for the model. Here's how they break down:
Most-reported components — tap a category to read what owners actually experienced:
Suspension 2 Read
A report, "problems involving kentucky coal trucks" was submitted as a petition to the u. S. Department of transportation to the attention of the secretary mary e. Peters. This petition described fatal accident occurrences in kentucky during the time period 2001 through 2005 involving dump trucks, illegally licensed, that were overwidth and did not comply with federal motor carrier safety regulations. As of this date, august 4, 2008, no response has been received from the usdot. The accidents occurred because of insufficient brake capacity on mack rd888sx dump trucks. Tests performed on a new mack rd888sx vehicle loaded to legal kentucky weight limits established it was not possible to stop that truck within federal motor carrier safety requirements. At least 65 deaths occurred during the past five years were estimated to have occurred because of excessively loaded coal dump trucks. The incident data below dated march 7, 2005, relates to one incident in which a minister was killed. Civil action against the coal truck driver and the coal company resulted in a judgment against the defendants. No remedial action has yet been taken by agencies within the department of transportation nor has anyone from the dot responded to my march 7, 2008, letter and dated report of march 3, 2008. *tr
Loose from the right side of the tandem suspension on a 2000 mack dump truck resulting in the truck turning over while dumping.***no answer required***. *mr the trunion bracket and cross member assembly broke on three of the fleets other mack trucks (2000 mack rd688s). *nm
Structure 2 Read
A report, "problems involving kentucky coal trucks" was submitted as a petition to the u. S. Department of transportation to the attention of the secretary mary e. Peters. This petition described fatal accident occurrences in kentucky during the time period 2001 through 2005 involving dump trucks, illegally licensed, that were overwidth and did not comply with federal motor carrier safety regulations. As of this date, august 4, 2008, no response has been received from the usdot. The accidents occurred because of insufficient brake capacity on mack rd888sx dump trucks. Tests performed on a new mack rd888sx vehicle loaded to legal kentucky weight limits established it was not possible to stop that truck within federal motor carrier safety requirements. At least 65 deaths occurred during the past five years were estimated to have occurred because of excessively loaded coal dump trucks. The incident data below dated march 7, 2005, relates to one incident in which a minister was killed. Civil action against the coal truck driver and the coal company resulted in a judgment against the defendants. No remedial action has yet been taken by agencies within the department of transportation nor has anyone from the dot responded to my march 7, 2008, letter and dated report of march 3, 2008. *tr
When entering the truck, the driver stepped on the step and the step disengaged from the fuel tank. This is a company owned vehicle. *ak this happened prior to recall 88v162. *slc
Fuel System 2 Read
Vehicle used to stall, now vehicle starts to stay on acceleration even if the key is taken out of vehicle. *ak
When entering the truck, the driver stepped on the step and the step disengaged from the fuel tank. This is a company owned vehicle. *ak this happened prior to recall 88v162. *slc
Gasoline 2 Read
Vehicle used to stall, now vehicle starts to stay on acceleration even if the key is taken out of vehicle. *ak
When entering the truck, the driver stepped on the step and the step disengaged from the fuel tank. This is a company owned vehicle. *ak this happened prior to recall 88v162. *slc
Service Brakes 1 Read
A report, "problems involving kentucky coal trucks" was submitted as a petition to the u. S. Department of transportation to the attention of the secretary mary e. Peters. This petition described fatal accident occurrences in kentucky during the time period 2001 through 2005 involving dump trucks, illegally licensed, that were overwidth and did not comply with federal motor carrier safety regulations. As of this date, august 4, 2008, no response has been received from the usdot. The accidents occurred because of insufficient brake capacity on mack rd888sx dump trucks. Tests performed on a new mack rd888sx vehicle loaded to legal kentucky weight limits established it was not possible to stop that truck within federal motor carrier safety requirements. At least 65 deaths occurred during the past five years were estimated to have occurred because of excessively loaded coal dump trucks. The incident data below dated march 7, 2005, relates to one incident in which a minister was killed. Civil action against the coal truck driver and the coal company resulted in a judgment against the defendants. No remedial action has yet been taken by agencies within the department of transportation nor has anyone from the dot responded to my march 7, 2008, letter and dated report of march 3, 2008. *tr
Air 1 Read
A report, "problems involving kentucky coal trucks" was submitted as a petition to the u. S. Department of transportation to the attention of the secretary mary e. Peters. This petition described fatal accident occurrences in kentucky during the time period 2001 through 2005 involving dump trucks, illegally licensed, that were overwidth and did not comply with federal motor carrier safety regulations. As of this date, august 4, 2008, no response has been received from the usdot. The accidents occurred because of insufficient brake capacity on mack rd888sx dump trucks. Tests performed on a new mack rd888sx vehicle loaded to legal kentucky weight limits established it was not possible to stop that truck within federal motor carrier safety requirements. At least 65 deaths occurred during the past five years were estimated to have occurred because of excessively loaded coal dump trucks. The incident data below dated march 7, 2005, relates to one incident in which a minister was killed. Civil action against the coal truck driver and the coal company resulted in a judgment against the defendants. No remedial action has yet been taken by agencies within the department of transportation nor has anyone from the dot responded to my march 7, 2008, letter and dated report of march 3, 2008. *tr
Equipment 1 Read
The step which was welded to the vehicle broke, which caused injury to the consumer. *jb
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.
Mack RD specifications & dimensions
The 2005 Mack RD. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN.
| Specs cache warming… |
Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.
Mack RD cargo space, seating & interior room
How much the RD holds — passengers and cargo. Seating, cargo and interior dimensions vary by trim and seat configuration — decode your VIN for the exact build.
Exact seating capacity, third-row availability, legroom and headroom decode from your VIN or vary by trim.
Passenger & cargo volume from EPA fueleconomy.gov (largest configuration). Seats, legroom and headroom from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
Mack RD tire size, oil type & owner specs
The fitment owners look up most — tires, wheels, oil and batteries. Exact wheel and tire sizes decode from your VIN or the driver's door-jamb placard; the universal items are listed below.
Exact tire, wheel, oil grade, capacity and battery group are added per trim and model year — decode your VIN above for the factory fitment. Universal items shown as-is.
What MPG does the Mack RD get?
MPG cache warming… reload in a moment.
What engines does the Mack RD have? Power & range
Powertrain data warming… reload in a moment.
How much does a Mack RD cost to own?
A Mack RD holds its value well. A typical example keeps roughly 56% of its value after five years — losing about 44% to depreciation. Fuel, maintenance and insurance add to the total cost to own.
| Age | Value retained | Est. resale value | Lost to depreciation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 84% | — | — |
| Year 2 | 76% | — | — |
| Year 3 | 68% | — | — |
| Year 4 | 61% | — | — |
| Year 5 | 56% | — | — |
What goes into the five-year cost to own:
- Depreciation — the biggest cost: this RD loses about 44% of its value over five years.
- Fuel — based on EPA economy at roughly 15,000 miles a year.
- Maintenance & repairs — routine service, tires and wear items as the RD ages.
- Insurance — varies by driver, state and trim; get a quote for your exact figure.
Resale & depreciation are ForCar estimates from typical segment value-retention curves — not a live market quote. Fuel from EPA fueleconomy.gov at ~15k mi/yr.
Is the Mack RD safe?
NHTSA crash-test ratings aren't published for the RD yet.
How many miles does a Mack RD last?
A well-maintained Mack RD typically lasts 250,000–300,000+ miles. It's exceptionally durable — with routine maintenance many owners report 250k+ on the original powertrain. Its ForCar Reliability Score is 3.5/5.
Decode your Mack RD’s window sticker & build
Original options, specs, recalls and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.
Decode VIN →All Mack RD model years
A year-by-year snapshot of the Mack RD — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.
| Year | Recalls | Best MPG | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2005 RD | 0 | — | — |
| 2004 RD | 3 recalls | — | — |
| 2003 RD | 1 recall | — | — |
| 2002 RD | 3 recalls | — | — |
| 2001 RD | 5 recalls | — | — |
| 2000 RD | 5 recalls | — | — |
| 1999 RD | 4 recalls | — | — |
| 1998 RD | 2 recalls | — | — |
| 1997 RD | 0 | — | — |
| 1996 RD | 0 | — | — |
| 1995 RD | 1 recall | — | — |
| 1994 RD | 2 recalls | — | — |
| 1993 RD | 3 recalls | — | — |
| 1992 RD | 3 recalls | — | — |
| 1991 RD | 1 recall | — | — |
| 1990 RD | 2 recalls | — | — |
| 1989 RD | 3 recalls | — | — |
| 1988 RD | 2 recalls | — | — |
| 1987 RD | 2 recalls | — | — |
| 1986 RD | 1 recall | — | — |
| 1985 RD | 1 recall | — | — |
| 1984 RD | 1 recall | — | — |
| 1983 RD | 1 recall | — | — |
| 1982 RD | 1 recall | — | — |
| 1981 RD | 1 recall | — | — |
Recalls = NHTSA campaigns that year · MPG = best EPA combined · Safety = NHTSA overall stars (tested years).
Frequently asked questions
What are the worst years for the RD?
By owner-complaint volume, 2000, 1987, 1996 drew the most reports. 1981, 1982, 1983 have the cleanest records.
How many recalls does the RD have?
48 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1981–2005. Always check open recalls by your VIN.
How many miles does a RD last?
A well-maintained RD typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the RD reliable?
Our ForCar Reliability Score for the RD is 3.5/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.
What's the Mack RD warranty?
New Mack models carry a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic (bumper-to-bumper) warranty and a 5 years / 60,000 miles powertrain warranty. Coverage can vary by model year and market — confirm with a Mack dealer.
Where is the Mack RD made?
The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your RD's VIN above to see exactly where it was built; Mack may build it at more than one plant depending on the year.
How much ground clearance does the RD have?
Ground clearance varies by trim and drivetrain — AWD/4WD versions often sit higher. Decode your VIN or check the specific trim for the exact figure.