PACCAR Recalls 55,000+ Trucks — Kenworth & Peterbilt (Headlights & Lift Axle)

PACCAR Inc. recalls over 55,000 Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks (2023-2026 models) for headlight performance and lift axle issues. Check if your truck is affected.

PACCAR Recalls 55,000+ Trucks — Kenworth & Peterbilt (Headlights & Lift Axle)

Attention Kenworth and Peterbilt owners 🚛⚠️

PACCAR Inc. announced a massive recall of over 55,000 trucks from Kenworth and Peterbilt brands manufactured between 2023 and 2026.

The issue: headlight performance failures and lift axle system problems that can compromise safety.

Which Models Are Affected?

Kenworth

  • T680
  • T880
  • W990
  • L770
  • T380
  • T480
  • T280

Peterbilt

  • 579
  • 589
  • 567
  • 548
  • 520
  • 536
  • 537

Affected model years: 2023, 2024, 2025, and some 2026 models.

What's the Problem?

1. Headlight Performance

Some trucks have LED headlights that don't meet FMVSS 108 standard (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard) for low and high beam illumination.

This reduces nighttime visibility, increasing accident risk. Additionally, if you're stopped at a DOT inspection with defective headlights, you can be placed out of service.

2. Lift Axle System

The second issue affects trucks with lift axle systems. The system may fail to keep the axle in the raised position under certain conditions, which:

  • Affects weight distribution
  • Can cause uneven tire wear
  • In extreme cases, can compromise vehicle stability

What to Do If You Have an Affected Truck?

Step 1: Check If Your Truck Is in the Recall

Call your Kenworth or Peterbilt dealer and provide your VIN (vehicle identification number). They'll confirm if your truck is affected.

You can also check at:

NHTSA Recall Search:
https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls

Step 2: Schedule an Appointment with the Dealer

The recall is free. PACCAR will cover the repair cost.

Dealers will replace defective components at no cost to you.

Step 3: While Waiting for Repair

While you schedule your appointment:

  • Check your headlights regularly — make sure they work properly in low and high beam mode
  • If you have a lift axle, check it before every trip — ensure it raises and lowers correctly
  • Document any issues — if you experience failures, report them immediately to PACCAR and your dealer

Can You Keep Operating?

Yes, but with caution:

  • If headlights function normally, there's no immediate risk
  • If you notice headlights are dim or intermittent, avoid driving at night until they're repaired
  • If the lift axle fails constantly, it may be dangerous to continue operating — especially with full load

In DOT inspections, defective headlights are cause for immediate out of service.

PACCAR Recall History

PACCAR has had several recalls in recent years:

  • 2024: Recall for brake system issues on some Kenworth and Peterbilt models
  • 2023: Steering system problems on certain T680s
  • 2022: Air suspension system failures

Recalls don't mean the trucks are bad — they mean the manufacturer is being proactive in correcting issues before they cause accidents.

🔧 Take Advantage of a Complete Inspection

If you already have to take your truck to the dealer for the recall, take advantage and get a complete inspection.

At The Truck Savers™ we offer:

  • FREE road simulator inspection — checks 100+ points on your truck and trailer
  • Professional alignment machine — precision alignment with latest-generation computer
  • Complete brake, suspension, and steering inspection
  • Electrical system diagnostics — including headlights, turn signals, and all DOT lights

Better to detect problems now than at a roadside inspection. 💪

Call us: (713) 455-5566 (Houston) | FREE road simulator inspection

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