2004 Peterbilt 385 Problems: 0 Complaints, 2 Recalls

The worst 2004 Peterbilt 385 problems

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

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Equipment: other: labelsReported November 25, 2013 · 561 vehicles affected

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

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

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 2004 Peterbilt 385 before you buy

Is the 2004 Peterbilt 385 reliable?

Owners have filed 0 complaints about the 2004 Peterbilt 385.

What is the most common problem with the 2004 Peterbilt 385?

There are not enough complaints to tell.

How many recalls does the 2004 Peterbilt 385 have?

2 recalls, covering equipment and engine and engine cooling.

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