The 1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome represents a robust and dependable platform popular among various recreational vehicle manufacturers. Typically, these motorhomes fall into the Class A category, built on a heavy-duty chassis known for its durability. While Freightliner primarily supplied the chassis, various coach builders then added their unique body styles and interiors, making "X-Line" more of a chassis designation than a singular model. Model years for similar Freightliner chassis extended through the late 90s and into the 2000s. Key trims often related to engine size or suspension upgrades offered by Freightliner, coupled with luxury levels from the coach builder. Original pricing could range from $100,000 to over $300,000 depending on the coach. Its strong diesel engine options and solid foundation made it stand out for long-haul reliability.
The Good
The 1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome offered significant advantages in performance and reliability, largely thanks to its heavy-duty diesel engine options, providing ample power for towing and climbing. Owners appreciated the robust build quality, contributing to impressive long-term durability. For practical buyers, its solid chassis and often generous storage capacity were appealing. Emotionally, the spacious living areas, comfortable ride, and the freedom of the open road, backed by a dependable powertrain, fostered a sense of adventure and home-away-from-home luxury. Its value proposition was strong, offering a durable base for many years of travel.
The Bad
Known weaknesses for the 1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome primarily revolve around its age. Watch out for potential air suspension issues, especially leaking airbags or worn components, which can be costly. The braking system, while robust, requires diligent maintenance due to the vehicle's weight. Electrical systems, given their complexity and age, can develop intermittent faults, including issues with chassis wiring or coach-specific components. Rust on the chassis or structural components, particularly in areas exposed to harsh weather, is another concern. Fluid leaks from the engine or transmission should also be thoroughly inspected.
1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome: Quick Overview
Here is a bullet-point summary of key specifications for the 1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome:
- Engine Options: The 1999 Freightliner chassis typically offered robust diesel engines from manufacturers like Cummins, Caterpillar, and Detroit Diesel.
- Cummins: Common options included the Cummins B-Series (e.g., 5.9L or 8.3L ISC) or C-Series engines.
- Caterpillar: The CAT 3126 was a prevalent choice, known for its workhorse capabilities.
- Detroit Diesel: Less common in RVs of this size but possible were engines like the Series 50.
- Horsepower: Horsepower figures varied significantly based on the specific engine and its tuning.
- Generally ranged from approximately 250 hp to 350 hp, with some higher-end options pushing towards 400 hp in larger applications.
- Torque output was substantial, often between 650 lb-ft and 1200 lb-ft, crucial for moving a heavy motorhome.
- Fuel Economy: Fuel economy for a heavy Class A motorhome is not a strong suit.
- Typically ranged from 6 to 10 MPG (miles per gallon), heavily dependent on engine, weight, driving style, and terrain.
- Larger engines and heavier coaches would generally be on the lower end of this spectrum.
- 0-60 MPH Times: These vehicles are not designed for acceleration, and 0-60 mph times are not typically measured or relevant for motorhomes.
- Acceleration is leisurely, focused on smooth, consistent power delivery.
- Towing Capacity: A significant advantage of a Freightliner chassis.
- Commonly ranged from 5,000 lbs to 15,000 lbs, depending on the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of the specific model and coach builder's design.
- This capacity allowed for towing large vehicles or trailers.
- Trim-Level Features (Chassis-Specific): Freightliner's "trim levels" would mostly relate to chassis robustness and component upgrades.
- Suspension: Air-ride suspension was a common upgrade, offering superior comfort over spring suspensions.
- Brakes: Air brakes were standard on most heavy-duty Freightliner chassis, providing reliable stopping power.
- Transmission: Allison automatic transmissions (e.g., MD3060, HD4060) were almost universally paired with these diesel engines, renowned for their durability and smooth shifting.
- Axle Ratios: Various axle ratios were available, influencing acceleration versus fuel economy.
Coach builder-specific trim features would encompass interior finishes, appliance packages, slide-out configurations, entertainment systems, and exterior graphics, varying wildly by brand (e.g., Tiffin, Monaco, Country Coach, etc., which might have built on X-Line chassis).
1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1999 |
| Make | Freightliner |
| Model | X-Line Motorhome |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Truck |
| Category | Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | GAFFNEY |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 5.9-L L-6 Diesel |
| Engine Size | 5.9L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Forward Front Axle |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Check
Accident
Check
Check
Theft
Check
Check
Open Lien
Check
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Check
Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome Have?
Frequently reported problems for motorhomes built on the 1999 Freightliner X-Line chassis often stem from its age and the complex integration of chassis and coach systems.
Chassis-Specific Concerns:
Recalls:
Specific recalls for the 1999 Freightliner X-Line chassis would typically relate to the base chassis components, such as brakes, steering, or engine components, rather than the entire motorhome. Owners should check the NHTSA database using the chassis VIN for any outstanding recalls specific to their model year. General Freightliner recalls of that era might include issues with brake valves, steering components, or fuel systems. Given the age, it's paramount to ensure any applicable recalls were addressed.
Chassis-Specific Concerns:
- Air Suspension System: Leaks in airbags, worn leveling valves, and seized ride height sensors are common. The air compressor can also fail. These issues can lead to an uneven ride, constant compressor cycling, or inability to maintain ride height.
- Braking System: While air brakes are durable, components like air lines, chambers, and the air dryer require regular inspection. Caliper issues or drum wear can lead to reduced braking performance. ABS sensor failures are also possible.
- Engine & Transmission Leaks: Older diesel engines and Allison transmissions, while robust, can develop oil or fluid leaks over time from seals, gaskets, or lines. Regular inspection of the underside is crucial.
- Cooling System: Radiator leaks, failing water pumps, and deteriorated hoses are common age-related issues in the cooling system of these powerful diesel engines. Overheating can lead to serious damage.
- Electrical Gremlins: The 12V and 120V electrical systems, especially where the chassis and coach wiring interface, can suffer from corrosion, loose connections, or failing relays, leading to intermittent power issues for lights, appliances, or engine components.
- Slide-Out Mechanisms: These are complex and often problematic, suffering from motor failures, alignment issues, or structural wear.
- Roof & Seam Leaks: Over time, sealant on the roof and around windows/slide-outs can degrade, leading to water intrusion and potentially extensive interior damage (rot, mold). This is a critical long-term reliability concern for any older RV.
- Appliance Failures: Refrigerators, water heaters, and AC units have finite lifespans and are common points of failure due to age.
- Generator Issues: The onboard generator, often a diesel unit, requires regular maintenance and can develop starting or operational problems if neglected.
Recalls:
Specific recalls for the 1999 Freightliner X-Line chassis would typically relate to the base chassis components, such as brakes, steering, or engine components, rather than the entire motorhome. Owners should check the NHTSA database using the chassis VIN for any outstanding recalls specific to their model year. General Freightliner recalls of that era might include issues with brake valves, steering components, or fuel systems. Given the age, it's paramount to ensure any applicable recalls were addressed.
How long will the 1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome last?
The 1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome, with proper maintenance, can achieve remarkable mileage and years of service. Many owners report these chassis-based motorhomes easily reaching 200,000 to 300,000 miles, and some even exceeding 500,000 miles, with their original diesel engines and transmissions still running strong. This translates to 20-30+ years of active use for recreational owners.
Long-term durability is a hallmark of the heavy-duty Freightliner chassis, especially with its robust diesel powertrains. However, weaknesses over time often manifest in the ancillary systems and the motorhome's "house" components. Air suspension systems, braking components (air dryer, brake chambers), and electrical wiring are common areas requiring attention due to wear and age. The coach's roof, seals, and slide-out mechanisms are also prone to wear, water damage, and mechanical failure, significantly impacting long-term enjoyment and cost of ownership if not meticulously maintained. Regular preventative maintenance, including fluid changes, chassis lubrication, and diligent inspection of seals, is key to maximizing service life.
Long-term durability is a hallmark of the heavy-duty Freightliner chassis, especially with its robust diesel powertrains. However, weaknesses over time often manifest in the ancillary systems and the motorhome's "house" components. Air suspension systems, braking components (air dryer, brake chambers), and electrical wiring are common areas requiring attention due to wear and age. The coach's roof, seals, and slide-out mechanisms are also prone to wear, water damage, and mechanical failure, significantly impacting long-term enjoyment and cost of ownership if not meticulously maintained. Regular preventative maintenance, including fluid changes, chassis lubrication, and diligent inspection of seals, is key to maximizing service life.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
For a 1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome, built-in technology and entertainment systems would be relatively basic by today's standards, reflecting the era.
Built-in Tech & Entertainment:
Driver-Assistance Features:
Driver-assistance features as we know them today (e.g., adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring) were non-existent in motorhomes of this vintage. The primary "assistance" was the robust air brake system and power steering.
Safety Features:
Safety features were also fundamental:
Optional Features:
Optional tech features from the coach builder included upgraded entertainment systems, larger generators, washer/dryer combos, and more sophisticated climate control systems.
Crash-Test Ratings:
Official crash-test ratings from organizations like NHTSA or IIHS are generally not conducted for Class A motorhomes, especially older models like the 1999 Freightliner X-Line. Their construction and low production volumes for specific models make standardized testing impractical. Safety is more inherent in the heavy chassis design and the integration of basic safety equipment.
Built-in Tech & Entertainment:
- Dash Stereo: Typically a basic AM/FM cassette or CD player. Some higher-end coach builds might have offered an upgraded head unit or a multi-CD changer.
- Televisions: Older CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) televisions were standard, often one in the living area and sometimes one in the bedroom. These are heavy and consume more power than modern flat-screens.
- VCR/DVD Player: A VCR would have been common, with DVD players becoming an optional upgrade or aftermarket addition around this time.
- Satellite Prep: Many higher-end models came "prepped" for satellite TV, meaning wiring was in place, but the dish and receiver were typically aftermarket additions.
- Onboard Generator: A standard and critical piece of tech, usually a diesel generator (e.g., Onan), providing 120V AC power when shore power isn't available.
- Leveling Jacks: Hydraulic or air-powered automatic leveling systems were a common and highly desired feature for ease of setup.
Driver-Assistance Features:
Driver-assistance features as we know them today (e.g., adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring) were non-existent in motorhomes of this vintage. The primary "assistance" was the robust air brake system and power steering.
Safety Features:
Safety features were also fundamental:
- Seatbelts: Three-point seatbelts for driver and front passenger, lap belts for certain passenger seating positions.
- Air Brakes: Essential for heavy vehicle stopping power, featuring an anti-lock braking system (ABS) on most Freightliner chassis of this type.
- Heavy-Duty Chassis: The sheer size and weight of the Freightliner chassis provided a degree of passive safety.
- Fire Extinguisher & Smoke/CO Detectors: Standard safety equipment within the coach.
- Visibility: Large windshields and mirrors, though often supplemented by aftermarket cameras today.
Optional Features:
Optional tech features from the coach builder included upgraded entertainment systems, larger generators, washer/dryer combos, and more sophisticated climate control systems.
Crash-Test Ratings:
Official crash-test ratings from organizations like NHTSA or IIHS are generally not conducted for Class A motorhomes, especially older models like the 1999 Freightliner X-Line. Their construction and low production volumes for specific models make standardized testing impractical. Safety is more inherent in the heavy chassis design and the integration of basic safety equipment.
What Colors Options are Available?
We’re working on this section!
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome Prices and Market Value
When new in 1999, motorhomes built on the Freightliner X-Line chassis could range significantly in price, typically starting around $100,000 for more basic Class A models from entry-level builders, and easily climbing to $250,000 to over $400,000 for luxurious, high-end coaches equipped with multiple slide-outs and premium amenities.
Today, the used market prices for a 1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome vary wildly based on condition, mileage, coach builder, and interior upgrades. You can find models ranging from $15,000 to $40,000, with exceptionally well-maintained, low-mileage examples from premium manufacturers potentially reaching $50,000 or more.
Depreciation on motorhomes is significant, especially in the initial years. After 25 years, most of the depreciation has already occurred. Factors affecting resale value include the overall condition of both the chassis and the coach (especially the roof and interior), engine type and maintenance history, the presence of slide-outs, and any recent upgrades (e.g., modern appliances, flooring). Water damage or neglected maintenance can drastically reduce value. The value is often more tied to the "house" part than the chassis itself at this age, assuming the chassis is mechanically sound.
Today, the used market prices for a 1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome vary wildly based on condition, mileage, coach builder, and interior upgrades. You can find models ranging from $15,000 to $40,000, with exceptionally well-maintained, low-mileage examples from premium manufacturers potentially reaching $50,000 or more.
Depreciation on motorhomes is significant, especially in the initial years. After 25 years, most of the depreciation has already occurred. Factors affecting resale value include the overall condition of both the chassis and the coach (especially the roof and interior), engine type and maintenance history, the presence of slide-outs, and any recent upgrades (e.g., modern appliances, flooring). Water damage or neglected maintenance can drastically reduce value. The value is often more tied to the "house" part than the chassis itself at this age, assuming the chassis is mechanically sound.
1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome Cost of Ownership
Ownership costs for a 1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome can be substantial.
Insurance: Detail insurance can vary, but generally, older Class A motorhomes have moderate to high premiums due to their size and potential for significant damage. Expect $800 - $2,000+ per year depending on coverage and driving record.
Fuel: With fuel economy typically ranging from 6-10 MPG and a large diesel tank (often 100+ gallons), fuel costs are very high, especially on long trips. Diesel is generally more expensive than gasoline.
Maintenance & Repair: This is where costs escalate. Heavy-duty diesel maintenance (oil changes, filters) is expensive. Age-related repairs like air suspension components, appliance replacements, roof resealing, or electrical troubleshooting can be very costly. Finding qualified technicians for older RVs can also be challenging and expensive.
Overall, a 1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome is costly to own due to fuel consumption, specialized heavy-duty maintenance, and the inevitable age-related repairs of both the chassis and the coach components. It requires a significant budget for upkeep to remain reliable and functional.
Insurance: Detail insurance can vary, but generally, older Class A motorhomes have moderate to high premiums due to their size and potential for significant damage. Expect $800 - $2,000+ per year depending on coverage and driving record.
Fuel: With fuel economy typically ranging from 6-10 MPG and a large diesel tank (often 100+ gallons), fuel costs are very high, especially on long trips. Diesel is generally more expensive than gasoline.
Maintenance & Repair: This is where costs escalate. Heavy-duty diesel maintenance (oil changes, filters) is expensive. Age-related repairs like air suspension components, appliance replacements, roof resealing, or electrical troubleshooting can be very costly. Finding qualified technicians for older RVs can also be challenging and expensive.
Overall, a 1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome is costly to own due to fuel consumption, specialized heavy-duty maintenance, and the inevitable age-related repairs of both the chassis and the coach components. It requires a significant budget for upkeep to remain reliable and functional.
1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Diesel
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome Insurance
Insurance for a 1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Truck with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome Compare to Other Truck?
The 1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome, being a chassis provider, stacked up against rivals primarily through the lens of its underlying heavy-duty platform. Key rivals in the Class A diesel pusher segment of that era included chassis from Spartan (e.g., Mountain Master, Summit), Roadmaster (Monaco's proprietary chassis), and potentially some Ford F-Series Super Duty chassis for smaller gas-powered Class As, though Freightliner typically competed in the heavier diesel realm.
Performance: Freightliner chassis, with their Cummins, Caterpillar, or Detroit Diesel engines and Allison transmissions, generally offered robust performance. They were known for strong towing capabilities, reliable highway cruising, and good torque for climbing. Spartan chassis often featured similar powertrains and delivered comparable performance. Roadmaster chassis were also very capable, with some models offering independent front suspension for improved ride.
Features: Chassis-level features like air brakes, air ride suspension, and the availability of powerful diesel engines were common across Freightliner and Spartan. Freightliner was known for its widespread service network. The "features" that truly differentiated vehicles in this class often came from the coach builder (e.g., multiple slide-outs, luxury interiors, advanced entertainment systems).
Reliability: All heavy-duty diesel chassis from this era, including Freightliner, Spartan, and Roadmaster, were built for durability. Their engines and transmissions are legendary for longevity with proper maintenance. Reliability concerns tend to be age-related, affecting all brands equally, such as air system leaks, electrical gremlins, or cooling system issues. Freightliner's widespread commercial truck service network was a practical advantage.
Price: New, the pricing was competitive within the high-end Class A diesel market, influenced heavily by the coach builder's branding and luxury level. Used prices today reflect similar factors, with chassis quality being a baseline, but coach condition, amenities, and maintenance history being dominant.
Alternatives:
Better Alternatives (in terms of modern features and potentially fewer immediate age-related issues): If budget allows, a newer diesel pusher from the mid-2000s or later would offer updated technology, potentially more reliable slide-out mechanisms, and fewer accumulated wear-and-tear items. Brands like Tiffin Allegro Bus, Newmar Dutch Star, or Monaco Diplomat built on various robust chassis are excellent choices.
Similar Alternatives (from the same era): Consider a 1999-2003 model built on a Spartan Mountain Master chassis (used by Newmar, Travel Supreme) or a Roadmaster chassis (Monaco, Holiday Rambler). These offer comparable heavy-duty reliability and performance, with differences primarily in ride dynamics and service availability.
Ultimately, a Freightliner X-Line chassis provides a solid foundation, but the overall motorhome experience and long-term satisfaction depend heavily on the quality and maintenance of the coach built upon it.
Performance: Freightliner chassis, with their Cummins, Caterpillar, or Detroit Diesel engines and Allison transmissions, generally offered robust performance. They were known for strong towing capabilities, reliable highway cruising, and good torque for climbing. Spartan chassis often featured similar powertrains and delivered comparable performance. Roadmaster chassis were also very capable, with some models offering independent front suspension for improved ride.
Features: Chassis-level features like air brakes, air ride suspension, and the availability of powerful diesel engines were common across Freightliner and Spartan. Freightliner was known for its widespread service network. The "features" that truly differentiated vehicles in this class often came from the coach builder (e.g., multiple slide-outs, luxury interiors, advanced entertainment systems).
Reliability: All heavy-duty diesel chassis from this era, including Freightliner, Spartan, and Roadmaster, were built for durability. Their engines and transmissions are legendary for longevity with proper maintenance. Reliability concerns tend to be age-related, affecting all brands equally, such as air system leaks, electrical gremlins, or cooling system issues. Freightliner's widespread commercial truck service network was a practical advantage.
Price: New, the pricing was competitive within the high-end Class A diesel market, influenced heavily by the coach builder's branding and luxury level. Used prices today reflect similar factors, with chassis quality being a baseline, but coach condition, amenities, and maintenance history being dominant.
Alternatives:
Better Alternatives (in terms of modern features and potentially fewer immediate age-related issues): If budget allows, a newer diesel pusher from the mid-2000s or later would offer updated technology, potentially more reliable slide-out mechanisms, and fewer accumulated wear-and-tear items. Brands like Tiffin Allegro Bus, Newmar Dutch Star, or Monaco Diplomat built on various robust chassis are excellent choices.
Similar Alternatives (from the same era): Consider a 1999-2003 model built on a Spartan Mountain Master chassis (used by Newmar, Travel Supreme) or a Roadmaster chassis (Monaco, Holiday Rambler). These offer comparable heavy-duty reliability and performance, with differences primarily in ride dynamics and service availability.
Ultimately, a Freightliner X-Line chassis provides a solid foundation, but the overall motorhome experience and long-term satisfaction depend heavily on the quality and maintenance of the coach built upon it.
Final Verdict: Is the 1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome a Good Truck?
The 1999 Freightliner X-Line Motorhome is an ideal vehicle for the budget-conscious traveler or full-timer who values robust mechanical durability over cutting-edge technology and is prepared for hands-on maintenance or significant repair costs. It's particularly suited for those looking for a spacious Class A diesel pusher experience at a fraction of the cost of a new one.
Is it worth buying? Yes, but with significant caveats. It's worth buying if you find an example that has been meticulously maintained, especially concerning its roof, seals, engine, transmission, and air suspension system. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified heavy-duty mechanic and RV technician is absolutely crucial.
It's best bought used, as new models are obviously unavailable. Specific trims or coach builders that are known for higher quality construction and better initial sealing tend to fare better over time (e.g., older Tiffin, Monaco, Country Coach models built on Freightliner chassis). Avoid models with signs of water damage, neglected maintenance, or extensive electrical issues, as these can quickly become money pits. It's a fantastic platform for those willing to invest time and money into keeping an older, quality rig on the road, offering spacious and powerful travel for years to come.
Is it worth buying? Yes, but with significant caveats. It's worth buying if you find an example that has been meticulously maintained, especially concerning its roof, seals, engine, transmission, and air suspension system. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified heavy-duty mechanic and RV technician is absolutely crucial.
It's best bought used, as new models are obviously unavailable. Specific trims or coach builders that are known for higher quality construction and better initial sealing tend to fare better over time (e.g., older Tiffin, Monaco, Country Coach models built on Freightliner chassis). Avoid models with signs of water damage, neglected maintenance, or extensive electrical issues, as these can quickly become money pits. It's a fantastic platform for those willing to invest time and money into keeping an older, quality rig on the road, offering spacious and powerful travel for years to come.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.