Check a VIN

Kenworth C500 recalls

There are 47 safety recalls on record for the Kenworth C500, covering 512,232 vehicles in total across all the models in each campaign. Newest first.

Kenworth C500 recalls by model year

2025 12023 12022 12021 12020 12019 42018 52017 42016 32015 32014 42013 22012 32011 62010 42009 52008 92007 62006 52005 52004 42003 32002 22001 42000 71999 71998 31997 31996 41995 11994 11993 11992 11991 31990 1

All recalls

Fuel system, diesel: delivery: fuel pumpReported October 23, 2024 · 5,690 vehicles affected
What is wrong
PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2025 Kenworth C500, T680, T800, T880, W900, W990, Peterbilt 567, 579, and 589 trucks, equipped with Cummins X15 diesel engines. The fuel pump barrels may fracture and cause a fuel leak, which can result in an engine stall.
Risk
An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the fuel pump barrels, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 15, 2024. Owners may contact Kenworth's customer service at 1‑425‑828‑5888 and Peterbilt's customer service at 1‑940‑591‑4220. Owners may also contact Cummins Customer Service at 812‑377‑5000. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 24KWH and 24PBH.

Recall number 24V789000 · Recall details

Service brakes, air: supply: reservoir/tankReported February 23, 2024 · 936 vehicles affected
What is wrong
PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2009-2021 Kenworth C500, 2012-2021 Kenworth T440, 2009-2015 Kenworth T660, 2015-2024 Kenworth T680, 2009-2024 Kenworth T800, 2009-2020 Kenworth T370, 2014-2023 Kenworth T880, 2011-2016 Kenworth T470, 2023 Kenworth T480, and 2009-2019 Kenworth W900 vehicles. The air tanks have an insufficient volume of air for the brake system. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 121, "Air Brake Systems."
Risk
Insufficient air volume can reduce braking performance and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will install the correct volume air tanks, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 12, 2024. Additional owner notification letters were mailed October 27, 2025. Owners may contact PACCAR customer service at 1‑425‑828‑5888. PACCAR's number for this recall is 24KWD.

Recall number 24V145000 · Recall details

SteeringReported July 28, 2022 · 47,500 vehicles affected
What is wrong
PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Kenworth T170, T270, T280, T370, T380, T440, T470, T480, T680, T800, T880, W900, W990, C500, and 2022-2023 Peterbilt 325, 330, 337, 348, 365, 367, 389, 520, 536, 537, 548, 567, and 579 vehicles. The steering gears may have been assembled incorrectly, which can cause the gears to fracture.
Risk
A fractured steering gear can cause a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the steering gear serial numbers, and replace the steering gears as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 26, 2022. Owners may contact Kenworth's customer service at 1‑425‑828‑5888 and Peterbilt's customer service at 1‑940‑591‑4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 22PBE and 22KWE.

Recall number 22V547000 · Recall details

Power train: clutch assemblyReported December 21, 2018 · 25,556 vehicles affected
What is wrong
PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Peterbilt 337, 348, 365, 367, 389, 567, 579 and 587 trucks and 2018-2019 Kenworth C500, T270, T370, T440, T660, T680, T800, T880 and W900 trucks equipped with automated manual transmissions. An internal component in the clutch assembly may fail, possibly resulting in unintended vehicle movement.
Risk
Unintended movement of a vehicle can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
PACCAR will notify owners, and dealers will update the transmission control module, free of charge. The recall began February 23, 2019. Owners may contact PACCAR customer service at 1‑940‑591‑4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 18PBE and 18KWH.

Recall number 18V931000 · Recall details

Engine and engine cooling: engine: dieselReported September 21, 2018 · 48,896 vehicles affected
What is wrong
PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Kenworth C500, T600, T660, T680, T800, T880 and W900 trucks, as well as Peterbilt 367, 386, 389, 567, 579 and 587 trucks, equipped with Cummins ISX15 or X15 diesel engines. In certain driving conditions, such as on a long down-hill grade, the fuel line may burst if the fuel pump cooling circuit screen becomes restricted.
Risk
If the fuel line bursts, fuel may leak onto the road resulting in a roadway hazard for other motorists. The engine may also stall without warning, resulting in the vehicle's inability to restart, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Cummins will notify owners, and dealers will replace the suspect fuel pump cooling circuit screen, free of charge. The recall began November 21, 2018. Owners may contact PACCAR customer service at 1‑940‑591‑4220. PACCAR's number for this recall is 18E081.

Recall number 18V657000 · Recall details

Electrical system: wiringReported August 22, 2018 · 11,429 vehicles affected
What is wrong
PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Kenworth C500, T660, T800, and W900 vehicles, equipped with 1.9M ISX15 engines. The engine harnesses may have been manufactured without check engine light (CEL) and stop engine light (SEL) circuits, preventing the driver from being warned of a serious engine problem.
Risk
If the driver is not warned of a serious engine problem, the engine may unexpectedly fail, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
PACCAR will notify owners, and dealers will inspect or test the ISX15 engine harness, and install an overlay jumper harness to supply the missing CEL and SEL circuits, free of charge. The recall began November 30, 2018. Owners may contact PACCAR customer service at 1‑918‑259‑3258. PACCAR's number for this recall is 18KWE.

Recall number 18V555000 · Recall details

Fuel system, dieselReported July 13, 2017 · 1,737 vehicles affected
What is wrong
PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Peterbilt 367, 389, 567, 579 and 587 trucks, and 2018 Kenworth C500, T680, T800, T880 and W900 trucks equipped with Cummins ISX 15L engines. These engines have a fuel pump whose drive gear could possibly slip on its drive shaft, causing a fuel pump function loss, resulting in an engine stall.
Risk
An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Cummins will notify the vehicle purchaser, and Cummins dealers will replace the fuel pumps, free of charge. The recall began July 1, 2017. Owners may contact Cummins customer service at 1‑800‑286‑6467 or PACCAR customer service at 1‑425‑468‑7400. PACCAR's number for this recall is C1909.

Recall number 17V443000 · Recall details

Electrical system: ignition: moduleReported June 10, 2016 · 3,227 vehicles affected
What is wrong
PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain model year 2017 Kenworth C500, T660, T680, T800, T880, and W900 vehicles manufactured March 9, 2016, to April 26, 2016 and 2017 Peterbilt 320, 365, 367, 389, 567, 579, and 587 vehicles manufactured March 10, 2016, to May 6, 2016. The affected vehicles are equipped with Cummins ISX12 or ISX15 engines and have an engine control module (ECM) that may short circuit, causing the engine to stall without warning without the ability to restart it.
Risk
An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Cummins will notify owners, and Cummins dealers will replace the defective engine control modules, free of charge. The began on July 8, 2016. Owners may contact Cummins customer service at 1‑800‑343‑7357, Kenworth customer service at 1‑425‑828‑5000 or Peterbilt customer service at 1‑940‑591‑4000. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 16KWB (Kenworth) and 616-C (Peterbilt).

Recall number 16V426000 · Recall details

Visibility: windshield wiper/washer: motorReported May 8, 2015 · 104,807 vehicles affected
What is wrong
PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain model year 2011-2016 Kenworth T270, T370, T440, T470, C500, C540, C550, T660, T800, W900, and 963 trucks manufactured November 1, 2010, to April 6, 2015. In the affected trucks, water may leak into the wiper motor.
Risk
As water leaks in, the wiper may cease to function on the 'intermittent' setting, reducing the driver's visibility and increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, the water may cause corrosion which, over time, may result in an electrical short, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
PACCAR is still developing and testing a remedy. The recall is expected to begin in July 2015. An interim letter was sent to owners on July 2, 2015. The recall began on September 2, 1015. Owners may contact Kenworth customer service at 1‑425‑828‑5000. PACCAR's number for this recall is 15KWF.

Recall number 15V271000 · Recall details

Electrical systemReported November 10, 2014 · 1,380 vehicles affected
What is wrong
PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain model year 2015 Kenworth T660, T800, W900, T400, and C500 heavy trucks manufactured September 19, 2014, to October 30, 2014. The affected vehicles may have been produced with an undersized wire gauge for the trailer stop lamp circuit in the instrument panel harness.
Risk
If the smaller wire gauge may overheat increasing the risk of a vehicle fire.
Remedy
PACCAR will notify owners, and dealers will replace the defective wire with a properly sized wire, free of charge. The recall began on December 19, 2014. Owners may contact PACCAR customer service at 1‑425‑828‑5000 (Kenworth).

Recall number 14V722000 · Recall details

Seat beltsReported January 24, 2014 · 10,414 vehicles affected
What is wrong
PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain model year 2014 Kenworth T660, T680, T700,T800, T880, W900, T440, T470, T370, T270, T170, C500, and C550 chassis manufactured between August 7, 2013, and October 31, 2013, and Peterbilt 320, 325, 330, 337, 348, 365, 367, 382, 384, 386, 388, 389, and 587 chassis manufactured between August 7, 2013, and November 3, 2013, and equipped with IMMI-brand L9 seat belt buckles. When the button is pressed to release the seat belt, the latch plate can become partially engaged with the buckle, making the seat belt difficult to unlatch. Thus, these vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 209, "Seat Belt Assemblies."
Risk
If the latch plate remains partially engaged after the button is pressed, egress from the vehicle could be hindered which would increase the risk of injury in the event of an emergency.
Remedy
PACCAR will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the seat belt buckles, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on March 31, 2014. Owners may contact PACCAR at 1‑425‑468‑7400. Kenworth's number for this campaign is 14KWC. Peterbilt's number for this campaign is 114-B.

Recall number 14V013000 · Recall details

Exterior lighting: tail lightsReported December 5, 2013 · 5,087 vehicles affected
What is wrong
PACCAR Incorporated (Paccar) is recalling certain model year 2014 Kenworth T170, T270, T370, T440, T470, T660, T680, T700, T800, T880, C500 and W900 trucks manufactured July 1, 2013 through September 17, 2013. In the affected vehicles, the plastic housing of the Stop/Tail/Turn (STT) lamp can shrink and allow the light bulb to fall out of the mounted retention ring. As such, the Stop/Tail/Turn light would not be illuminated, and the vehicles do not conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 108 "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Risk
If the stop/tail/turn light is not illuminated, the driver's intentions would not be communicated, which increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Kenworth will notify owners, and dealers will replace the defective STT lamps with new lamps. The recall began on February 4, 2014. Customers may contact Paccar at 1‑425‑468‑7400. Kenworth's number for this recall is 13KWM.

Recall number 13V612000 · Recall details

Engine and engine coolingReported March 24, 2011 · 5,831 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Paccar is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 kenworth c500, t2000, t600, and t660, as well as model year 2009-2011 peterbilt 387 and 388 trucks equipped with caterpillar c15 engine and manufactured from may 11, 2006, through september 17, 2010. Degradation of a combustion tube weld can cause radial heat impingement on the body which may burn through certain bodies used on c15 engines.
Risk
This could result in a fire.
Remedy
Caterpillar is handling the owner notification and remedy for this campaign. Please see caterpillar's defect report 11e-006. Caterpillar will replace the single piece combustion tube with a thick wall combustion tube which will not allow the heat to break through. This service will be performed free of charge. Due to a parts supply issue, owners will be notified by the end of april 2011 about the safety defect, and will then be notified again once the free remedy is available, currently estimated to be around late july 2011. Owners may contact caterpillar toll-free at 1‑800‑447‑4986.

Recall number 11V203000 · Recall details

Service brakes, air: slack adjustersReported March 7, 2011 · 280 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Paccar is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 kenworth t270/370, t440/t470, t800, t660, w900 and c500 vehicles manufactured between october 18, 2010, and january 28, 2011. Certain cast iron slack adjuster housings, which transmit braking force from the brake chamber push rod to the brake cam tube, may include a flow notch in the handle portion of the housing due to an error during the casting process. A flow notch in the handle portion may reduce the effective cross section structure and cause the slack adjuster housing to fracture.
Risk
If the slack adjuster housing were to fracture, the wheel brake to which the slack adjuster housing is attached would no longer function, which could increase vehicle stopping distances, and if mounted on the steer axle, could cause the vehicle to pull to one side during braking, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the slack adjuster housing as necessary. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall began on march 30, 2011. Owners may contact kenworth at 425‑828‑5440.

Recall number 11V157000 · Recall details

Exterior lightingReported September 29, 2010 · 3,040 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Kenworth is recalling certain model year 2011 t660, t800, w900, c500, t440, and t470 vehicles manufactured from april 1, 2009, through august 30, 2010. One of the four harness spade terminal connections to the chassis load center may become completely unseated. A completely unseated connection may result in a power loss to a portion of the vehicle's exterior lighting.
Risk
Power loss of the vehicle's exterior lighting may reduce the visibility of the vehicle to other drivers increasing the risk of a crash with the vehicle.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the harness and re-seating the female connectors on the male spade terminals. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall began on october 29, 2010. Owners may contact kenworth at 1‑425‑828‑5440.

Recall number 10V452000 · Recall details

Steering: columnReported July 2, 2010 · 9,697 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Paccar is recalling certain model year 2008-2010 trucks equipped with trw steering shafts. The circumferential weld around the steering shaft tube that welds the splined tube to the non-splined tube may be mislocated. Mislocation of the circumferential weld may allow the splined tube and non-splined tube to rotate relative to one another during a low speed, high torque turn, possibly resulting in a separation of the two tubes.
Risk
A separation of the splined and non-splined tubes would cause a loss of steering control and increase the risk of a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the steering shaft using a weld placement gauge provided by trw. Any steering shaft found to have been welded improperly will be replaced free of charge. The safety recall began on july 30, 2010. Owners may contact kenworth at 425‑828‑5440 and peterbilt at 940‑591‑4196.

Recall number 10V308000 · Recall details

Structure: body: hoodReported May 18, 2010 · 10 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Kenworth is recalling certain model year 2009 through 2011 c500 trucks manufactured from october 24, 2008 through january 13, 2010. During maneuvers with certain combinations of wheel turn, articulation, and bump, the brake chamber can contact the rear hood support.
Risk
The contact can damage the brake chamber leading to a loss of braking function at the affected wheel end, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Kenworth will notify owners and dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge. The safety recall began on june 8, 2010. Owners may contact kenworth at 1‑425‑828‑5440.

Recall number 10V212000 · Recall details

Engine and engine coolingReported May 19, 2009 · 112,736 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Paccar is recalling 112,736 trucks equipped with caterpillar c15 engine. The variable valve actuation oil line may rub against the p-clips retaining the oil line, causing an oil leak.
Risk
An oil leak may result in a fire hazard.
Remedy
Paccar is working with caterpillar to remedy these vehicles. Please see recall 09e-020. Caterpillar will inspect and repair the necessary components free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule. Owners may contact caterpillar toll-free at 1‑800‑447‑4986, peterbilt at 1‑940‑591‑4196 and kenworth at 1‑425‑828‑5440.

Recall number 09V165000 · Recall details

Trailer hitches: fifth wheel assemblyReported April 25, 2008 · 3,573 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Paccar is recalling 3,573 my 2007 kenworth c500, t800, t600, t2000, and w900 chassis built with phillips qcs ii trailer cable connection and trailer cable mounting bracket with 'u-shaped' cut out. Certain trailer cable mounting brackets have a 'u-shaped' cut out that only partially supports the trailer cable connection. Partial support of the cable connection may allow the molded boot and electrical ground pin to partially or completely pull away from the 7-way socket. Partial or complete detachment of the cable connection can cause reduced water resistance and potential loss of electrical ground. There is also a possibility the trailer lights may fail to illuminate without the operator's knowledge.
Risk
If this condition were to occur, other motorists may not be warned of the tractor/trailer movements, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will install a reinforcement bracket between the flexible back of the qcs ii molded boot and the frame bracket, and reattach the supporting bolts. The recall began on may may 30, 2008. Owners may contact kenworth at 1‑425‑828‑5440.

Recall number 08V190000 · Recall details

Parking brake: conventional: airReported March 21, 2008 · 1,043 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Paccar is recalling 1,043 my 2008-2009 kenworth c500, t2000,t660, t800 and w900 trucks equipped with bendix mv-3 dash control valves. The molded valve body has an incorrect core pin in the injection mold causing the valve body to be oversized in the double check valve area. This condition can allow the rubber double check valve to become lodged in the body opening under certain circumstances.
Risk
If the double check valve becomes lodged, in the event of a primary reservoir failure, air pressure can leak past the lodged double check valve thereby depleting the secondary reservoir, causing reduced ability for modulating the service emergency brakes. In such an event, the operator should observe an air leak, indications of low air pressure via the primary and secondary air gauges, and audible and visual low air pressure warning alarms. A vehicle crash is possible if these warnings are not heeded.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the bendix mv-3 dash control valves free of charge. The recall began on april 14, 2008. Owners may contact kenworth at 1‑425‑828‑4196.

Recall number 08V128000 · Recall details

Service brakes, air: slack adjustersReported March 4, 2008 · 130 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Paccar is recalling 130 my 2005-2007 kenworth c500, t800, w900, and peterbilt models 357 and 379 tractor trailers equipped with fabco slack adjusters on sisu axles. The slack adjusters may fail as a result of a fatigue crack rendering the slack adjuster inoperative. This could reduce braking effectiveness.
Risk
Reduction in braking capacity could increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the slack adjusters free of charge. The recall began on march 21, 2008. Owners may contact kenworth at 1‑425‑828‑5440 and peterbilt at 1‑940‑591‑4196.

Recall number 08V099000 · Recall details

Latches/locks/linkages: doors: latchReported February 7, 2008 · 6,169 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Paccar is recalling 6,169 my 2008 kenworth t300, t660, t800, t2000, w900 and c500 vehicles and my 2008-2009 peterbilt models 365, 367, 384, 387, 388, 389 and 389 kits. Certain door latch assemblies on these vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 206, 'door locks and door retention components." the rotor in some of these door latch assemblies did not receive the proper heat treatment and may be soft.
Risk
In the event of a crash, force could cause the rotor to crack and the door would not have primary or secondary closing security which could possibly lead to injury of the vehicle occupant.
Remedy
Paccar is working with trimark and will inspect and replace the door latch if it is found to be defective. The recall began on march 14, 2008. Owners may contact kenworth at 1‑425‑828‑5440 or peterbilt at 1‑940‑591‑4196.

Recall number 08V065000 · Recall details

Service brakes, air: supply: hoses, lines/piping, and fittingsReported January 8, 2008 · 2,794 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Certain trucks equipped with eaton synflex eclipse brand extruded nylon air brake hose tubing fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 106, "brake hoses." the tubing was manufactured with only four layers of nylon material, instead of the specified five layers.
Risk
The diameter of the hose affects the fittings which may allow air to leak from the brakes and create the potential for a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the air brake hoses and, if necessary, replace the hoses. The recall began on february 22, 2008. Owner notification schedule for this campaign. Owners may contact kenworth at 1‑425‑828‑5440 or peterbilt at 1‑940‑591‑4196.

Recall number 08V002000 · Recall details

Steering: gear box: shaft sectorReported December 20, 2007 · 559 vehicles affected
What is wrong
On certain kenworth and peterbilt heavy duty trucks equipped with tas-85 trw steering gears, the inner surface of the outer sector shaft teeth of the steering gears may have an incorrect involute profile, which may lead to chipping and damage of the gearing system.
Risk
This type of damage may cause a "bind/stick" condition in the vehicle steering during a turn increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will repair and replace any suspect tas-85 steering gear assembly free of charge. The recall began on january 9, 2008. Owners may contact kenworth at 425‑828‑5440 and peterbilt at 940‑591‑4201.

Recall number 07V591000 · Recall details

Structure: body: hoodReported May 22, 2007 · 61 vehicles affected
What is wrong
On certain trucks, the rear hood mounting brackets can contact the front axle brake chamber during full axle articulation.
Risk
If contact occurs, two possible scenarios may result: (1) the front brake chamber may be damaged to a point resulting in the loss of air or cause sudden full application of one of the brakes on the front axle; or (2) the front brake chamber may be damaged causing a reduction in braking capacity, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the brake chamber and surrounding components for any damage and modify the rear hood support bracket to eliminate the potential for interference. If any brake components is damaged, the dealer will be instructed to replace the components free of charge. The recall began on may 14, 2007. Owners may contact kenworth at 425‑828‑5440.

Recall number 07V217000 · Recall details

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 9, 2007 · 65 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Certain trucks fail to comply with the brake timing regulatory requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 121, "air brake systems." the brake valve was moved to the opposite rail, increasing the length of the air line, which in turn increased the wheelbase requiring a dual relay valve system. The vehicles were manufactured with a single valve system.
Risk
If stopping distance was limited, a vehicle crash could result.
Remedy
Dealers will convert the single relay valve to a dual relay valve system free of charge. The recall began on may 21, 2007. Owners may contact kenworth at 425‑828‑5440.

Recall number 07V090000 · Recall details

Power train: drivelineReported October 13, 2006 · 572 vehicles affected
What is wrong
On certain trucks equipped with chalmers rear suspensions, the adjustable torque rod end castings may be brittle. A brittle rod end casting may fracture without warning, causing the vehicles' rear axles to become misaligned.
Risk
This misalignment can cause the vehicle to lose directional stability at speeds that may result in a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the vehicles to determine if they were manufactured with a suspect torque rod end. If a suspect torque rod end is found, the entire torque rod will be replaced. The recall began on october 9, 2006. Owners may contact peterbilt at 1‑940‑591‑4196 or kenworth at 1‑425‑828‑5440.

Recall number 06V391000 · Recall details

Engine and engine coolingReported December 22, 2005 · 30,995 vehicles affected
What is wrong
On certain tractors equipped with caterpillar diesel engines, the variable valve actuation oil line may wear against the sharp edge of the cylinder head if not positioned correctly.
Risk
The oil line may be cut on the cylinder head causing an oil leak and a possible fire.
Remedy
Caterpillar, in conjunction with paccar, will be conducting the owner notification and remedy for this campaign free of charge. Owners may call caterpillar at 309‑675‑6496, kenworth at 425‑828‑5440, or peterbilt at 940‑591‑4201.

Recall number 05V570000 · Recall details

Suspension: rearReported May 19, 2005 · 850 vehicles affected
What is wrong
On certain trucks and tractors equipped with airglide high-articulation rear suspensions, the c65-1006 sway bar used in this rear suspension may experience a reduction in fatigue life due to either a manufacturing process or a high induced stress during an extreme suspension articulation event.
Risk
Both of these conditions can lead to a failure of the sway bar which could cause the rear axle to come loose, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
The inspection and repair of these vehicles will depend on the type of vehicle (tractor or truck) and the intended service application. This inspection and repair criteria will be forthcoming. The recall began on june 30, 2005. Owners may contact kenworth at 1‑425‑828‑5440.

Recall number 05V237000 · Recall details

SuspensionReported April 28, 2005 · 1,026 vehicles affected
What is wrong
On certain heavy duty class 8 trucks, the suspension has transverse beam castings that may fracture under normal loads. If a casting breaks when the vehicle is traveling on a roadway there is the potential for pieces of the casting to become projectiles and the suspension's transverse beam may drop down low enough to contact the road surface.
Risk
This could cause sparks that could potentially ignite and cause a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the defective transverse beam assemblies free of charge. The recall began on june 10, 2005, with letters being mailed to peterbilt owners; and on june 17, 2005, for kenworth owners. Owners may contact peterbilt at 940‑591‑4201 or kenworth at 425‑828‑5440.

Recall number 05V189000 · Recall details

Electrical system: wiringReported December 10, 2004 · 4,322 vehicles affected
What is wrong
On certain trucks, the power feed harness p92-1993 terminals were not properly crimped.
Risk
This could lead to intermittent power loss affecting the electrical system and possibly result in a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the harness. The recall began january 13, 2005. Owners should contact kenworth at 1‑425‑828‑5440.

Recall number 04V580000 · 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

Steering: linkages: tie rod assemblyReported July 15, 2002 · 4,513 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Heavy duty trucks equipped with trw tie rod ends on certain arvinmeritor and dana axles. Peterbilt will recall 1,434 vehicles equipped with arvinmeritor axles manufactured from december 11, 1999, to may 14, 2000, and from july 22 to september 30, 2000. Kenworth will recall 859 vehicles equipped with arvinmeritor vehicles manufactured from december 11, 1999, to may 23, 2000, and from july 27, 2000, to september 30, 2000 and kennworth will recall an additional 4,151 vehicles equipped with dana axles and manufactured from june 23 to december 6, 1999, and from may 23 to september 30, 2000. The tie rod and drag link ball stud ends contain bearings that are below the specified case depth and/or hardness.
Risk
This can lead to premature wear with possible separation of the ball stud from the socket, increasing the risk of loss of control of the vehicle.
Remedy
Dealers will remove and replace all affected tie rods and drag links with different designed ends. Owner notification began july 15, 2002. 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 peterbilt at 1‑940‑591‑4201 or kenworth at 1‑425‑828‑5440.

Recall number 02V037003 · Recall details

Electrical system: wiringReported February 4, 2002 · 44 vehicles affected
What is wrong
On some heavy duty trucks equipped with alcoa fujikura ltd. (afl) power distribution boxes (pd box), the pd boxes were manufactured with insufficient torque applied to the nut of the main power feed-through stud.
Risk
Insufficient torque can lead to (1) electrical arcing of the wires inside of the pd box, or (2) an interrupted power supply to the vehicle's electrical system, either of which can lead to a loss of vehicle electrical power and possibly vehicle control without warning.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and tighten the nut on the main power feed-through stud. Owner notification began february 25, 2002. 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 02V033000 · Recall details

Visibility: defroster/defogger/HVAC systemReported September 26, 2001 · 2,670 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Vehicle description: certain heavy duty trucks fail to comply with the requirements of fmvss no. 103, "windshield defrosting and defogging systems." the mode door in an HVAC system can become inoperable. The mode door cam and actuator could bind, causing the cam retaining tabs to shear off.
Risk
This failure may inhibit the ability to direct air blowing from the HVAC system to the windshield, potentially reducing the driver's visibility.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the mode door operation and replace the HVAC cab mode housing assembly if necessary. Owner notification began november 7, 2001. 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 1‑425‑828‑5000.

Recall number 01V305000 · Recall details

Steering: linkages: tie rod assemblyReported August 28, 2001 · 2,294 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with trw tie rod ends on certain meritor axles. The tie rod and drag link ball stud ends contain bearings that are below the specified case depth and/or hardness.
Risk
This can lead to premature wear with possible separation of the ball stud from the socket, increasing the risk of loss of control of the vehicle.
Remedy
Dealers will remove and replace all affected tie rods and drag links with different designed ends. Owner notification began october 24, 2001. 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 peterbilt at 1‑940‑591‑4000 or kenworth at 1‑425‑828‑5000.

Recall number 01V140006 · Recall details

SuspensionReported May 17, 2001 · 390 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with chalmers 1000 series and 800 series suspension kits. These suspension kits may have insufficient penetration of the weld attaching the torque rod eye to the torque rod tube.
Risk
Failure of the weld could result in separation of the eye and tube, causing a lock of axle retention, which could result in loss of vehicle control.
Remedy
Dealers will replace all chalmers fixed torque rods on these vehicles. Owner notification began july 27, 2001. 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 peterbilt at 1‑940‑591‑4000 or kenworth at 1‑425‑828‑5000.

Recall number 01V167001 · Recall details

Steering: linkages: tie rod assemblyReported March 1, 2001 · 6,392 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with tie rod assemblies manufactured by trw. The suspect tie rods contain 24-dl model ball sockets. Certain of the tie rod ball-socket bearings have a below-specification case depth and/or hardness, which can lead to premature wear of the socket.
Risk
If this condition occurs, the driver can lose partial control of the right front wheel, possibly resulting in a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the defective ball sockets and/or drag links. Owner notification began on april 10, 2001, to kenworth owners and on april 25, 2001, to peterbilt owners. 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 1‑425‑828‑5000, peterbilt at 1‑940‑591‑4000 or trw customer service at 1‑866‑280‑3287.

Recall number 01V044005 · Recall details

Suspension: front: control arm: lower armReported February 20, 2001 · 209 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Vehicle description: vehicles equipped with 54" rear axle spacing configuration of the airglide 200 suspension with the service application identified as logger, dump truck, or tanker. The rear suspension is regularly subjected to extreme articulation, resulting in flexing of the joint.
Risk
Failure of the lower sway arm attaching bolts could result in loss of vehicle control.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the lower sway arm brackets. Owner notification began march 27, 2001. 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 1‑425‑828‑5000.

Recall number 01V051000 · Recall details

Electrical system: wiring: fuses and circuit breakersReported February 5, 2001 · 1,992 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with an optional firewall-mounted circuit breaker. The main cab power and battery power leads were attached incorrectly. This condition can result in the main cab power being unprotected.
Risk
If a wiring short occurred anywhere along the cab power circuit, the available battery power could arc and cause subsequent damage to the vehicle or a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and correct the problem, as needed. Owner notification began february 26, 2001. 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 1‑425‑828‑5000.

Recall number 01V021000 · Recall details

Steering: linkages: tie rod assemblyReported September 13, 2000 · 3,260 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with trw tie rod ends on certain meritor axles. The tie rod and drag link ball stud ends contain bearings that are below the specified case depth and/or hardness.
Risk
This can lead to premature wear with possible separation of the ball stud from the socket, increasing the risk of loss of control of the vehicle.
Remedy
Dealers will remove and replace all affected tie rods and drag links with different designed ends.

Recall number 00V246102 · Recall details

Electrical system: wiring: front underhoodReported June 11, 1998 · 9,500 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with caterpillar 3406e engines. The routing of the electrical and fuel lines can cause chaffing of the wiring harness on the fuel line.
Risk
This chaffing can cause fuel leakage and a potential for a fire in the engine compartment.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect, adjust, and repair, if necessary, the fuel line and electrical harness.

Recall number 98V129000 · Recall details

Exterior lighting: turn signal: switchReported April 3, 1996 · 617 vehicles affected
What is wrong
The wires that correspond to the vehicle's rear turn signals were reversed when installed in the electrical connector.
Risk
This condition will cause the rear turn signals to flash opposite from the direction intended by the driver increasing the risk of a vehicle accident.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the turn signal switch and, if necessary, replace the turn signal switch.

Recall number 96V056000 · Recall details

Visibility: windshield wiper/washer: linkagesReported June 10, 1991 · 15,000 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Sprague wiper assembly pivot can seize due to galvanic corrosion between the zinc-plated steel shaft and the bronze bushings.
Risk
This corrosion can cause wiper arm/blade assembly to stopwiping windshield, this could affect driver visibility and result in anaccident.
Remedy
Replace sprague wiper assembly pivot with an assembly not susceptible to galvanic corrosion.

Recall number 91V090000 · Recall details

Steering: linkagesReported January 6, 1991 · 412 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Pitman arm pinch bolts may have been inadequately torqued.
Risk
This could allow pitman arm to slip on the steering gearoutput shaft resulting in loss of control and an accident.
Remedy
Retorque pinch bolts and reset as necessary.

Recall number 91V021000 · Recall details

Questions about the Kenworth C500 recalls

How do I check if my Kenworth C500 has an open recall?

Enter your VIN in the VIN decoder on this page to see the recalls for your exact model and year, then confirm with any dealer of the brand or the manufacturer, who can tell you whether the repair was already done on your car.

Do I have to pay for a recall repair?

No. Safety recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer of the brand, even if the car is out of warranty or you are not the first owner.

How many recalls does the Kenworth C500 have?

47, covering fuel system, diesel, service brakes, air and steering.

VIN decoder

See the problems and recalls for an exact car

Buying a used Kenworth C500?

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

Check its history