Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6) low engine heat and coolant leaking from oil cooler, started on cold day back december 14th 2009, took truck to dealership. Wanted oil cooler resealed and two thermostats replaced. Vehicle has third party warranty. Dealer asked permission to tear down, we denied action, said to diagnose problem according to warranty protocol. Dealer completely dismantles motor incorrectly causing irreparable damage. Now dealer is holding vehicle hostage since we will not sign release of law suit for damage. Dealer never told us they were doing this. As an alterer of manufactured vehicles my self, I do remember that a repair shop has no authority to place a vehicle in an unsafe or inoperable condition. After the fact of this, I have seen vehicles that have been modified from the original design, that may not be properly done or even have an alterers decal showing changes to suspension, drilling and cutting of frames and so on. I am writing you on this for a possible investigation of the dealer. I have also since found this is a normal practice with this dealer. I have contacted the bbb and they have an f rating for this company on complaints. The dealer never responds. I do have an attorney involved, and would also like some assistance in this matter in my personal opinion, I feel this company could be placing people in harms way for faulty repairs, and modifications. [xxx]
The worst 2004 Peterbilt 378 problems
Ranked by number of owner complaints. Mileage and cost come from what owners wrote.
- Engine1
Problems by type
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- Engine1
Recalls 3
Equipment: other: labels
- What is wrong
- Paccar Incorporated (Paccar) is recalling certain 2004-2013 Peterbilt 379, 357, 378, 367, 388, 365, 389, 385 and 386 trucks manufactured from April 3, 2003, through October 25, 2013 and equipped with tri-drive rear axles and a tag or pusher axle. The affected vehicles may be missing required information from the certification label, specifically the tag or pusher axle the gross axle weight rating, suitable tire and rim information, and recommended tire pressure information. Without this information, the vehicles do not comply with the requirements of 49 C.F.R. Part 567, "Certification."
- Risk
- As a result, the axles may be overloaded or the wrong tires could be installed or the tires could be improperly inflated. All of these issues increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy
- Peterbilt will notify owners and dealers will inspect and replace the certification labels missing the necessary information. The recall is expected to begin in January 2014. Customers can contact Peterbilt at 1‑940‑591‑4000. Peterbilt's number for this campaign is 1113-F.
Recall number 13V593000 · Recall details
Service brakes, air
- What is wrong
- On certain non-ABS equipped trucks, an air hose between the tractor protection valve and the back of the cab bulkhead was omitted.
- Risk
- The absence of this air hose could adversely affect the drive axle brake performance while a trailer is being pulled, resulting in longer stopping distances, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy
- Peterbilt will inspect the air hose plumbing of the drive axle brake system and make the necessary repairs. The recall began on february 22, 2007. Owners may contact peterbilt at 1‑940‑591‑4196.
Recall number 07V044000 · Recall details
Engine and engine cooling
- 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
Technical service bulletins for the 2004 Peterbilt 378 13
Bulletins tell dealers how to fix known problems. A warranty extension means the manufacturer pays for that repair for longer.
- "Kenworth: Dealers should check the chassis list and SIR weekly for VIN changes
- 1210F - spl 170XL
- Information Only – Windshield washer pumps have a high No Trouble Found rate
- Information Only: This bulletin provides dealers with a battery warranty quick reference guide to ensure...
- Information only: Hendrickson Softek front axle maintenance intervals and requirements.
- Information Only: Proper jump-starting voltage will eliminate high voltage related issues and equipment...
- Information Only – Vehicles may have the connector seals on the wheel speed sensor incorrectly installed,...
- Information Only: Vehicles may have the connector seal on the wheel speed sensor incorrectly installed,...
- Information Only: This bulletin provides guidance for repairing an air-conditioning system after internal...
- Information Only
What 2004 Peterbilt 378 owners say
Most recent owner complaints, unedited.
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Questions about the 2004 Peterbilt 378
Is the 2004 Peterbilt 378 reliable?
Owners have filed 1 complaint about the 2004 Peterbilt 378, close to a typical 378 model year.
What is the most common problem with the 2004 Peterbilt 378?
Engine and cooling, with 1 complaint.
How many recalls does the 2004 Peterbilt 378 have?
3 recalls, covering equipment, service brakes, air and engine and engine cooling.
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