International Motors has announced a recall affecting certain Class 8 trucks after finding a problem with the Hill Start Assist system.
Details from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show that more than 1,000 vehicles are involved. The recall impacts 2024–2026 LT models and 2025 RH models. On these trucks, the Hill Start Assist exhaust port can become blocked by ice or road debris. If that happens, the service brakes might be released slowly or not at all.
Hill Start Assist is designed to keep a truck from rolling backward when starting on an incline. The feature holds the brake for a short time after the pedal is released. Once the driver applies the accelerator, the service brakes disengage for a smoother start.
The NHTSA warns that if the brakes remain engaged while the truck is in motion, the likelihood of a crash increases. The recall notice does not confirm any crashes linked to this problem.
The issue affects trucks equipped with Eaton or International automated manual transmissions that also have electronic stability control or automatic traction control. According to International, roughly 97% of the recalled units are LT series models, with the remainder being RH trucks.
Dealers will repair the defect by relocating the Hill Start Assist valve exhaust at no cost to the owner. Notification letters are set to be mailed on September 29.
Truck owners can get more details by contacting International’s customer service at 800-448-7825 and referencing recall number 25508. NHTSA’s reference for this recall is 25V501.
The defect was discovered in April following a review of a field service report that noted brake drag at the start of a shift. An investigation found that valves positioned outside the tractor’s frame rails are more vulnerable to road spray and debris. Since the same valve operates during adaptive cruise control, air could be trapped during light braking.
Source: Land Line Media
