Recall 21V602 affects 7 2019 Spec Tec Sec trailers because the steering arm can detach. Dexter Axle will inspect and weld it free.
Spec Tec is recalling 7 2019 Sec trailers equipped with Dexter Axle Ingersoll Smart-Steer self-steer axles because the steering arm can detach from the steering knuckle during certain low-speed, high-side loading maneuvers. A detached arm can cause loss of steering control, and loose hardware can become a road hazard, which increases crash risk; Spec Tec dealers will complete the free repair.
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What's wrong?
The 2019 Spec Tec Sec trailers in this recall use a Smart-Steer 2.0 self-steering axle. That axle helps the trailer wheels follow a turn at low speed instead of scrubbing sideways. The bolt-on steer arm connects steering movement at the knuckle to the rest of the axle linkage, so the wheel can track correctly during tight maneuvers.
On the affected axle, the bolts that hold the steer arm to the steering knuckle can shear during heavy loading conditions. When that happens, the steer arm separates from the knuckle on that side and can drag along the ground. The filing states the trailer does not become uncontrollable, but the operator still needs to secure the axle before continuing normal use.
The main sign comes when the failure has already started: the detached steer arm can drag, or a broken bolt section can fall away. There is no warning sign before failure.
Who's affected?
This recall centers on Smart-Steer 2.0 self-steering axle equipment and its bolt-on steer arm.
| 2019 Spec Tec Sec | steering linkage |
|---|---|
| 2019 Spec Tec Sec | steering system |
| Units affected | 7 |
| Field incidents | NHTSA has logged no field incidents to date. |
A matching year and model does not guarantee inclusion. Check your VIN to confirm whether this recall applies to your specific vehicle.
What's the safety risk?
A detached steering arm can cause loss of steering control, and loose attachment hardware can fall into the roadway. Either problem increases crash risk. Drive cautiously and arrange the steering-arm inspection and weld repair promptly. Repair is free at any franchised Spec Tec dealer.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2019 Spec Tec Sec trailer is included in this recall.
- Contact a franchised Spec Tec dealer to schedule the free steering-arm inspection and weld repair that secures the arm to the steering knuckle.
- Reference recall number 21V602 when you call, and ask whether Dexter Axle will complete the inspection or repair.
- Avoid low-speed, high-side loading maneuvers until the steering-arm weld repair is complete.
- Bring any recall notice or service paperwork you have.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, a Spec Tec technician has Dexter Axle inspect the steering arm and add welds where the recall requires them. The inspection, welding work, parts, and labor are free under the recall. Spec Tec has a general reimbursement plan on file for owners who paid for this repair before the recall work was completed. Contact Spec Tec customer service with prior repair documentation so they can review the claim under that plan.
| Reimbursement | Reimbursement available |
|---|
Timeline
| May 20, 2021 | Owner notification mailed |
|---|---|
| August 4, 2021 | NHTSA published the recall |
| October 13, 2021 | Interim owner notification (was planned for this date) |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 21V602?
Recall 21V602 covers 7 2019 Spec Tec Sec trailers equipped with Dexter Axle Ingersoll Smart-Steer self-steer axles. The steering arm can detach from the steering knuckle during low-speed, high-side loading maneuvers. Dexter Axle will inspect the steering arm and apply welds for free.
What should I do if my 2019 Spec Tec Sec is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific trailer is included in recall 21V602. If it is, contact Spec Tec customer service at 1-570-429-2510 and reference recall 21V602. Dexter Axle will inspect the steering arm and apply welds free of charge.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires the recall repair at no cost, and the remedy for recall 21V602 is a free Dexter Axle inspection of the steering arm with welds applied where needed. Keep the recall number available when you call.
What is the safety risk?
The safety risk is loss of steering control if the steering arm detaches from the steering knuckle. Attachment hardware can also fall from the trailer and become a road hazard. Both conditions increase crash risk, so confirm your VIN and arrange the free inspection and weld repair.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/21V602000 |
|---|---|
| Spec Tec customer service | 1-570-429-2510 |
| NHTSA recall # | 21V602 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 21V602000 |
Source documents
-
Download Quarterly Report (PDF) - Download Owner Notice (PDF)
- Download Owner Notification Letter (PDF)
- Download Recall Report (PDF)
- Download Recall Acknowledgement (PDF)
This article is generated from NHTSA's primary recall filings and reviewed against the source on May 20, 2026. RecallNotify does not paraphrase NHTSA's consequence language; that text is reproduced as written above. Editorial standards →