2003 Kenworth C500 Problems: 0 Complaints, 3 Recalls

The worst 2003 Kenworth C500 problems

Ranked by number of owner complaints. Mileage and cost come from what owners wrote.

Tap a problem to see which part fails, at what mileage and in which other years.

Power train: automatic transmissionReported March 16, 2007 · 4,592 vehicles affected

What is wrong: On certain trucks, the wiring, parts, or transmission programming required for the auto neutral feature to function as designed were either not installed, connected, or programmed properly.
Risk: If any of these conditions exists, the transmission will not automatically shift into neutral when left in drive with the parking brake set engaged. The vehicle could move without warning increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the affected vehicles to ensure the auto neutral feature functions properly and, if needed, will make the necessary repairs free of charge. The recall began on may 9, 2007. Owners may contact kenworth at 425‑828‑5440.

Recall number 07V107000 · Recall details

Service brakes, airReported March 31, 2003 · 45 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Certain trucks equipped with meritor p 18x7 brakes with 36" brake chambers fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard (fmvss) no. 121, "air brake systems." these trucks were manufactured with a combined air reservoir volume less than 12 times the combined volume of all service brake chambers.
Risk: This does not meet the requirements of the standard.
Remedy: Dealers will add an additional tank or change one of the existing air tanks to a larger size. Owner notification began on may 5, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1‑425‑828‑5440.

Recall number 03V126000 · Recall details

Exterior lightingReported February 13, 2003 · 9,890 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Certain trucks equipped with trailer connections fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standards (fmvss) no. 121, "air brake systems," and no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment." the supplier removed a rubber grommet from the trailer light line connector. The vehicles are experiencing corrosion at the 7-way trailer connection. This causes intermittent flashing/flickering of the trailer lights.
Risk: This could cause an electrical short and/or possible fire hazard.
Remedy: Dealers will install the missing grommet on all affected chassis. If a connector is found defective, it will be replaced with a new connector. Owner notification is began on march 14, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1‑425‑828‑5440.

Recall number 03V045000 · Recall details

Bulletins tell dealers how to fix known problems. A warranty extension means the manufacturer pays for that repair for longer.

Used buying checklistWhat to check on a 2003 Kenworth C500 before you buy

Is the 2003 Kenworth C500 reliable?

Owners have filed 0 complaints about the 2003 Kenworth C500.

What is the most common problem with the 2003 Kenworth C500?

There are not enough complaints to tell.

How many recalls does the 2003 Kenworth C500 have?

3 recalls, covering power train, service brakes, air and exterior lighting.

See the problems and recalls for an exact car

Check the exact car before you pay: accidents, salvage or flood titles, odometer readings and previous owners.