Recall 21V655 covers 264 2017-2019 Reitnouer Trailers with Dexter Ingersoll Smart-Steer axles for steering-arm detachment. Repair is free at any franchised Reitnouer Trailers dealer.
Reitnouer Trailers is recalling 264 2017-2019 Reitnouer Trailers equipped with Dexter 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 steering arm can cause loss of steering control or drop hardware onto the road, and the dealer repair is free.
Does this recall apply to your specific vehicle?
The official, free per-VIN recall check is run by NHTSA. Enter your VIN and we'll forward you directly — and add you to a free watchlist so you hear about new recalls for your vehicle.
Check my VIN at NHTSARecallNotify doesn't check your VIN — NHTSA's official tool does. We use your email only to alert you to new recalls.
Watch this vehicle for recalls
Add it to your free watchlist and we will alert you as new federal recalls are posted for your year, make and model. New-recall alerts are rolling out now.
You are on the watchlist.
We will email you as new federal recalls are posted for your vehicle.
What's wrong?
The Dexter Smart-Steer self-steer axle on 2017-2019 Reitnouer Trailers uses steering knuckles at the axle ends so the trailer wheels can turn during tight maneuvers. The steering arm connects to the steering knuckle and helps control that movement. Most trailer axles do not steer this way, so this part carries a specific steering-linkage job.
On affected trailers, the steering arm can detach from the steering knuckle during certain low-speed, high-side loading maneuvers. The problem is at the arm-to-knuckle connection on Dexter steer axles installed on these trailers. Reitnouer Trailers says the remedy part changes that connection from bolted only to welded and bolted.
There is no warning sign before failure. Because the separation happens at the steering linkage, an owner or driver should not count on a light, sound, or handling change to appear first.
Who's affected?
Spans the 2017, 2018, and 2019 model years, with the Dexter steer axle listed under steering linkage and steering system components.
| 2017 Reitnouer Trailers Reitnouer Trailers | steering linkage |
|---|---|
| 2017 Reitnouer Trailers Reitnouer Trailers | steering system |
| 2018 Reitnouer Trailers Reitnouer Trailers | steering linkage |
| 2018 Reitnouer Trailers Reitnouer Trailers | steering system |
| 2019 Reitnouer Trailers Reitnouer Trailers | steering linkage |
| 2019 Reitnouer Trailers Reitnouer Trailers | steering system |
| Units affected | 264 |
| 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 your specific trailer is included.
What's the safety risk?
A detached steering arm can cause loss of steering control. Loose attachment hardware can also fall from the trailer, create a road hazard, and raise crash risk for you and nearby traffic. Until the inspection and weld repair are complete, schedule service soon and drive cautiously. Repair is free at any franchised Reitnouer Trailers dealer.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2017-2019 Reitnouer Trailers trailer is included in this recall.
- Contact a franchised Reitnouer Trailers dealer to schedule the free steering-arm inspection and weld repair that keeps the arm attached to the steering knuckle.
- Bring the recall notice if Reitnouer Trailers has mailed one. If not, reference recall number 21V655 when you call.
- Avoid low-speed, high-side loading maneuvers until the repair is complete.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, a Reitnouer Trailers technician inspects the steering arm and applies the required welds. The recall repair is free, including parts and labor. Reitnouer Trailers has a general reimbursement plan on file for eligible out-of-pocket repairs tied to this recall. If you already paid for a related steering arm repair, contact Reitnouer Trailers customer service at 1-610-929-4856 and ask what documentation the reimbursement plan requires.
| Reimbursement | Reimbursement available |
|---|
Timeline
| August 23, 2021 | NHTSA published the recall |
|---|---|
| August 23, 2021 | Dealer notification began |
| August 23, 2021 | Dealer notification ended |
| August 30, 2021 | Interim owner notification (was planned for this date) |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 21V655?
Recall 21V655 covers 264 2017-2019 Reitnouer Trailers equipped with Dexter Ingersoll Smart-Steer self-steer axles. The steering arm can detach from the steering knuckle during low-speed, high-side loading maneuvers. Dealers will inspect the steering arm and apply welds for free.
What should I do if my 2017-2019 Reitnouer Trailers is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific trailer is included in recall 21V655. If it is, contact a Reitnouer Trailers dealer to schedule the steering-arm inspection and welding repair. Reference recall number 21V655 when you call. The repair is free.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires the manufacturer to repair the defect at no cost. For recall 21V655, dealers will inspect the steering arm and apply welds free of charge. Reitnouer customer service is available at 1-610-929-4856.
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 problems increase crash risk, so confirm the VIN and schedule the free dealer repair.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/21V655000 |
|---|---|
| Reitnouer Trailers customer service | 1-610-929-4856 |
| NHTSA recall # | 21V655 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 21V655000 |
Source documents
-
Download Recall Investigation Document (PDF) (PDF) - Download Owner Notice (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 →