Model year

2021 International LT

Heavy truck, diesel, 6x4, built in Mexico. Owner complaints on file from Dec 3, 2021 to Mar 30, 2023.

Recall campaigns covering this model year13257k vehicles or units across those campaigns
Owner complaints22.0 times the median 2021 heavy truck
Severity index100.02021 heavy trucks average 14.3
First 24 months1Complaints in its first two years
Complaints over time

Complaints about the 2021 International LT peaked in 2021, with 1 filed

Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.

00.250.50.7512021120222023202420252026
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. The lighter column runs through October.
Components

50% of complaints about the 2021 International LT name engine and cooling

Owner complaints by component. Hover or focus a bar for the crash, fire, injury or death count.

Engine and cooling
1
Driver assistance
1
Fuel system
1
Brakes
1
Structure
1
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. A complaint can name more than one component; it is counted under the first.
Recalls

13 recall campaigns cover the 2021 International LT

Check a specific vehicle by VIN on NHTSA's site: a campaign may cover only part of a model year's production.

Recall campaigns for the 2021 International LT
CampaignFiledSubjectComponentVehiclesRemedy
25V-817Nov 25, 2025Electrical noise and low signal to the power line carrier may cause the ECU to incorrectly process commands or stop workingElectrical system678Software update
24V-818Oct 31, 2024Electrical noise and low signal to the power line carrier may cause the ECU to incorrectly process commands or stop workingElectrical system105,276Software update
23V-370May 25, 2023Anti-lock brake system (ABS) indicator light does not remain illuminated when a malfunction exists, and when the vehicle's ignition switch is on,…Brakes59,684Software update
23V-353May 18, 2023Back-up lights offer low visibility when the vehicle is in reverse and bobtail modeLighting32,880Part replacement
23V-220Mar 30, 2023Engine control module (ECM) may be unresponsive to throttle pedal application, which can cause the vehicle to unexpectedly slow to idle speed on…Engine and cooling770Software update
22V-691Sep 15, 2022Connecting rod wrist pin may crack, resulting in connecting rod failureEngine and cooling7,918Software update
22V-546Jul 28, 2022Cables that connect the batteries to the vehicle frame may become excessively hot, and in some cases, cause battery post separationElectrical system8,483Part replacement
22V-164Mar 17, 2022Positive battery cable may be incorrectly routed, causing it to chafe on the side skirt frame and become damagedElectrical system2,804Part replacement
21V-281Apr 22, 2021Wrist pin may crack and cause connecting rod failureEngine and cooling10,038Software update
21V-227Apr 1, 2021Retainer was not properly seated in the SC-3 single check valve and may not provide source air isolation when pressure is appliedBrakes845Part replacement
21V-226Apr 1, 2021Spring inside the spring brake chamber may allow the pressure plate to shift and wear a hole through the diaphragmBrakes615Part replacement
21V-112Feb 24, 2021Capscrews that attach the flywheel to the crankshaft may have been improperly torqued, allowing the flywheel to detachEngine and cooling7Repair or modification
21V-079Feb 17, 2021Battery ground cable ring terminal at the frame connecting point may break, resulting in a loss of electrical power and unintended engine shutdown…Electrical system27,457Part replacement
Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Owner complaints

What owners reported about the 2021 International LT

The full text of every complaint filed with NHTSA about this model year, newest first. Complaints are filed by owners and are not verified by NHTSA; NHTSA removes personal details before publishing.

2 complaints on file, page 1 of 1.

  1. Filed Mar 30, 2023Failure May 25, 2022Little Rock, ARAdaptive cruise control, Automatic emergency braking, Service brakesCrash1 injured

    The brake assist malfunctioned causing the brakes to abruptly stop without cause or warning. When the braking system abruptly stopped it caused a jack knife and lost of a trailer on a congested highway with vehicles in all lanes, I was able to finally get control of the tractor with out causing contact or injury with other vehicles and the rear trailer broke free and rolled back and landed in the grass that divided the highways. I injured myself and had to have surgery. The tractor was taken to a shop 4 days after the accident. They found that the module for abs ec80 had blocked radar and data link faults for camera, radar & camera was not properly installed. Rush truck center told the company that they needed to drive tractor on a long drive to recreate issues, but the company denied to go forward and picked the tractor up.

    NHTSA complaint 11514699
  2. Filed Dec 3, 2021Failure Oct 14, 2021akron, PAEngine, Fuel/propulsion system, Body1 injured

    I drive tractor trailer for JB Hunt. Over the last 4 Years, the three trucks I have been assigned to have had exhaust leaks that vented into the cab. One was a Freightliner (approx 2017 model), and two have been Internationals. These exhaust leaks caused me medical problems, requiring that I take off time unscheduled. The last three trucks I have been assigned to have had exhaust leaks into the cab. Some leaks I only found with a thermal camera. The exhaust leaks are not the main problem. The problem is that design of these trucks cause any leaking engine gases to be pushed into the cab of the truck, mostly through the air conditioning/heater vents. I have tested this. I zip tied a can of orange air freshener under the hood. The can was positioned in such a way as to point away from the air intake box, toward the back of the engine. When driving at highway speed, the orange air freshener was very strong coming into the cab from the a/c vents. The truck is supposed to be getting the fresh air from outside the truck, and forward of where the air freshener was spraying. I originally thought the only problem was that the cabin air intake box is located under the hood, in immediate proximity to all of the leaks. This in itself is a poor design. Even with duct tape over the openings into the cabin air box, any gases (or air freshener) is immediately pulled into the cab through the a/c and heat. I have no idea how this occurs. The design of the trucks allows any leaking gases under the hood to come directly into the cab. This applies to Freightliners and Internationals. They have the same basic design, and by experience I can say that both perform the same way. The hoods on both truck makes are designed with dedicated pathways to provide pure outside air for the intake of the ENGINE. The air provided to the driver comes from an unsealed airbox located under the hood. The main problem is not the leaks but that they get vented into the driver's cabin. The engine crankcase ventilation pours large volume

    NHTSA complaint 11442614
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations

NHTSA has not opened an investigation on this model year

Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
Service bulletins

196 manufacturer communications cover this model year

Technical service bulletins and other notices the manufacturer sent to dealers. A bulletin is not a recall; the 60 most recent are listed.

  • IK1201526 Jul 2, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document will guide the user through the parts and information related to A26B resonator removal and EGR cross-over tube installation.
  • IK0800560 Jun 9, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document will guide the user through the changes of the dielectric grease/coatings used in certain areas on all International vehicles built after 1/8/2018. International's Electrical Engineering Team made this change to improve the longevity of the OE…
  • IK1201516 May 21, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document will guide the user through parts information and installation instructions for the IMP Isolation Kit.
  • 26101 May 22, 2026 · Service Campaign
    Certain International® trucks and IC BusTM CE Series buses may have out of date BCM programing that may cause erroneous fault codes after a vehicle sits for 2 or 3 days.
  • IK2600255 Apr 23, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document provides guidance for assessing the feasibility of implementing a customer-requested change to an engine or vehicle parameter/feature. Customer requested changes will be approved in accordance with the requirements specified in 40 CFR Part 103…
  • IK2600297 Apr 15, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document enables technicians to: 1. Accurately identify International® A26B engine control systems. 2. Understand the programming requirements and system behavior. 3. Perform programming tasks independently without needing technical support.
  • IK2600298 Apr 15, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document enables technicians to: 1. Accurately identify International® A26A engine control systems. 2. Understand the programming intricacies related to these systems. 3. Perform programming tasks independently without needing technical support.
  • 26101 Apr 7, 2026 · Service Campaign
    Certain International® trucks and IC BusTM CE Series buses may have out of date BCM programing that may cause erroneous fault codes after a vehicle sits for 2 or 3 days.
  • IK1201526 Mar 4, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document will guide the user through the parts and information related to A26B resonator removal and EGR cross-over tube installation.
  • IK0600001 Mar 30, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Some interaxle shafts (the driveshaft connecting 2 drive axles) utilize special phasing. This is by design to reduce torsional vibrations. See Dana/Spicer letter here & Meritor here.
  • IK1500109 Feb 21, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document will guide the user through supplemental fuel system diagnostics on 2017 A26 ESN 4500000 - 4599999.
  • IK2600069 Feb 7, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document will guide the user through troubleshooting steps to submitting a case file for a horsepower request.
  • IK1201526 Feb 6, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document will guide the user through the parts and information related to A26B resonator removal and EGR cross-over tube installation.
  • IK4300035 Feb 3, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This tool is designed to compare Diamond Logic feature data across multiple vehicle configuration files. It allows users to quickly load files either manually or directly from the Diamond Logic Builder Vehicles folder using VIN-based selection. As files are…
  • IK2600255 Jan 26, 2026 · Other
    This document provides guidance for assessing the feasibility of implementing a customer-requested change to an engine or vehicle parameter/feature. Customer requested changes will be approved in accordance with the requirements specified in 40 CFR Part 103…
  • IK2600090 Feb 5, 2026 · Other
    New CARB Idle Reduction Change Request
  • IK2600047 Jan 2, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Engine replacements for all International engines will need to follow this procedure.
  • IK0800563 Jan 19, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Feature code 0008TSJ for auto start stop is a feature that will allow you to preset values in the body controller to allow the truck to start when the battery voltage or engine oil temperature reaches the preset value. The engine will then run for a preset …
  • IK2600279 Dec 19, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document provides: Steps to take when switch pack programming fails, or when switch pack disappears after body control module update Sample scenarios Additional information to assist readers in understanding DLB switch pack programming
  • IK1600272 Dec 19, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document will guide the user through a step-by-step procedure for detecting water leaks in vehicle cabs and windshields using an ultrasonic sound detector.
  • IK1201009 Dec 18, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    In some geographic areas, ambient temperatures reaching below 40°F (4°C), including high levels of humidity, an operator may experience engine stalling, low performance, and/or poor aftertreatment performance. This is caused by condensation accumulating and…
  • IK1201516 Dec 17, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document will guide the user through diagnosing an intermittent shutdown complaint on a 2021 A26 (A26B), whether the vehicle is coming to a stop or sitting at idle.
  • IK2600253 Dec 9, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document guides dealer technicians through the programming process for an A26a (2017-2021) engine swap (both NEU and new engines).
  • IK1201009 Nov 6, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    In some geographic areas, ambient temperatures reaching below 15°F (-10 °C), including high levels of humidity, an operator may experience engine stalling, low performance, and or poor aftertreatment performance. This is caused by condensation accumulating …
  • IK0800689 Nov 21, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    In some instances, the driver's or passenger's door pod may become unresponsive, where it will not respond to any manual inputs from the driver or passenger. In some of these situations, it is possible for this symptom to be present without any fault codes …
  • IK0800688 Nov 5, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document is to notify the field of an issue with BCM that causes various electrical system concerns after the vehicle sits for 2-3 days. This can affect all LT, RH, MV, HV models, 2021MY and up HX, 2024MY and up CE Bus with BCM kernel version 752, 753,…
  • IK0600030 Dec 5, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document will guide the user through understanding Prop Shaft Codes and understanding the variations of prop codes. (Metric Prop codes start with the number a 4 and Non metric Prop codes start with a 2.)
  • IK1201527 Oct 15, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document will guide the user through diagnosing the fuel/soot mixture found in the EGR system.
  • IK0600001 Oct 16, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Some interaxle shafts (the driveshaft connecting 2 drive axles) utilise special phasing. This is by design to reduce torsional vibrations. See Dana/Spicer letter here & Meritor here. Dana DS404 rear axle housing families use offset interaxle driveshaft …
  • IK1500111 Sep 15, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document will guide the user through the parts and information related to A26B resonator and EGR cross-over tube installation.
  • IK3400001 Aug 28, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Title: Service Portal iKNow Feedback Case Types Applies To: All
  • IK1400005 Aug 25, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Title: Driveline Information Center and Troubleshooting Procedures Applies To: All Vehicles
  • IK2600262 Jul 17, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Title: Export Recalibration Process & Emissions Label - A26 Applies To: Service Manager, General Manager, Technicians.
  • IK1900022 Jul 18, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Title: A/C Refrigerant and Oil Capacities Applies To: All current models
  • IK1201501 Jul 14, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Title: S13 Gear Housing Leak (By The Air Compressor) Applies To: S13 Integrated Powertrain LT RH HX
  • IK1200716 Jul 7, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Title: Engine Emission Label Replacement, Certificate of Conformance and Clean Idle Sticker Addition Procedure Applies To: All Navistar Powered Trucks Requesting Engine Emission Label Replacement, Certificate of Conformance and/or Clean Idle Sticker, Clean …
  • IK0900157 Jul 17, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Title: Fan belt replacement guidelines for frayed edges Applies To: All Models
  • IK1201519 Jun 24, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Title: Replacing the Crankshaft Gear on S13 Engines
  • IK1201516 Jun 11, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Title: 2021 A26 (A26B) - Intermittent Shutdown
  • IK1201509 Jun 16, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Title: S13 New Power Steering Tube Support Brackets
  • IK1900299 May 12, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Title: Parameters for 16UZL with 16VKW Applies To: Vehicles with both feature codes 16UZL and 16VKW
  • IK1201511 May 11, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Title: Supplemental A26 MAF Fault Diagnostics Applies To: All A26 Engines
  • IK0500054 Jun 4, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Title: Steering Gear Seal Repair Guidelines Applies To: Steering gears
  • IK2600069 May 20, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Title: How to Request a Horsepower Quote Applies To: All International and Cummins Electronic engines
  • IK0300078 May 9, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document reminds technicians of the critical relationship between the truck's suspension and the driveline operating angles. The information applies to diesel, gas, and electric vehicles.
  • IK1200716 Apr 24, 2025 · Emissions
    Applies To: All Navistar Powered Trucks Requesting Engine Emission Label Replacement, Certificate of Conformance and/or Clean Idle Sticker, Clean Truck Check
  • IK2600279 Apr 29, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Switch Pack Programming Troubleshooting Information
  • IK0800679 Mar 27, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Title: Battery Disconnect Switch Replacement - Best Practices Applies To: All Models with Battery Disconnect Switch
  • IK0900156 Mar 7, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Title: Connecting an Auxiliary APU to the S13 Coolant System
  • IK1201511 Mar 26, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Title: Supplemental A26 MAF Fault Diagnostics
  • IK1400023 Oct 8, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This article addresses chassis lean conditions on all chassis. This does not include any diagnostics for body leans such as a cab lean. Keep in mind that a chassis lean may cause or accentuate a cab lean. Filling out the printable form and using the notes i…
  • IK12101498 Sep 20, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This article will call out those VINs that are equipped with the shim, and if and when the shim should be used as a field repair solution.
  • IK0800351 Sep 27, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document is used to help guide through fault codes.
  • IK19000292 Aug 23, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document will guide the user on the available part kits for servicing A/C system in the event of severe failure.
  • IK1400023 Aug 15, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document will guide the user how to addresses chassis lean conditions on all chassis.
  • IK0500021 Aug 15, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document will guide the user how to properly diagnose or repair a truck equipped with a Sheppard's steering gear with Auto Relief Plungers.
  • IK0800659 Aug 5, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document will guide the user through relocating the No-Idle system's voltage sense source from the battery to the interior sleeper PDM.
  • iK1200101 Jul 3, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    The purpose of this document is to guide a user to resolve fault code 285 & 286 for Cummins engines.
  • iK1500095 Jul 2, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document will provide the user with cleaning options and procedures for aluminum bright work parts that become stained or tarnished.
  • iK1600269 Jul 2, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This document will guide the user through various field repairs to eliminate the squeaks, rattles knocking of the engine hood on International LTs and RHs
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.