Complaints over time
Complaints about the 2016 Peterbilt 579 peaked in 2016, with 2 filed
Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. The lighter column runs through October.
Model year
2016 Peterbilt 579
Heavy truck, diesel, 6x4, built in United States. Owner complaints on file from Jul 5, 2016 to Dec 27, 2021.
Recall campaigns covering this model year11738k vehicles or units across those campaigns
Owner complaints3Close to the median 2016 heavy truck
Severity index0.02016 heavy trucks average 21.4
First 24 months2Complaints in its first two years
Components
67% of complaints about the 2016 Peterbilt 579 name powertrain
Owner complaints by component. Hover or focus a bar for the crash, fire, injury or death count.
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. A complaint can name more than one component; it is counted under the first.
Recalls
11 recall campaigns cover the 2016 Peterbilt 579
Check a specific vehicle by VIN on NHTSA's site: a campaign may cover only part of a model year's production.
| Campaign | Filed | Subject | Component | Vehicles | Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21V00N000 | Dec 29, 2021 | Methane detection system will not function if the system loses power | Electrical system | 1,107 | Not stated |
| 20V-199 | Apr 6, 2020 | In the event that the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) loses battery and/or ignition power to the controller, the dash warning light for the ABS may… | Stability and traction control | 460,515 | Software update |
| 20V-130 | Mar 4, 2020 | Positive battery jumper terminal cable may be too long, allowing it to chafe against the left front suspension spring and result in an electrical… | Electrical system | 35,671 | Part replacement |
| 18V-816 | Nov 16, 2018 | Since both intermediate side marker lamps and reflex reflectors are required, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor… | Lighting | 1,619 | Repair or modification |
| 17V-593 | Sep 22, 2017 | Castellated nut on the steer axles may not be properly torqued, allowing the tie rod to loosen | Steering | 17,737 | Part replacement |
| 17V-471 | Jul 25, 2017 | Spotlight circuit may not be adequately protected in the event of a short | Electrical system | 5,731 | Not stated |
| 15V-639 | Oct 9, 2015 | In the affected vehicles, when the transmission shift lever is moved from reverse to neutral, the reverse gear may stay engaged | Powertrain | 27 | Repair or modification |
| 15V-597 | Sep 24, 2015 | In the affected vehicles, the Engine Control Module (ECM) may short circuit, causing the engine to stall without warning | Electrical system | 354 | Part replacement |
| 15V-456 | Jul 22, 2015 | Affected trucks, equipped with extended-body Leece Neville alternators, have alternator charge cables that may chafe against a formed metal freon… | Electrical system | 288 | Repair or modification |
| 15V-270 | May 8, 2015 | Affected trucks, equipped with PACCAR MX-13 engines and Delco-Remy 40SI alternators, have alternator charge cables that may chafe against a formed… | Electrical system | 1,494 | Repair or modification |
| 15V-132 | Mar 6, 2015 | Affected vehicles may be equipped with Tire and Rim Certification Labels that list a tire pressure below the actual correct amount | Equipment | 213,230 | Label or owner notice |
Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Owner complaints
What owners reported about the 2016 Peterbilt 579
The full text of every complaint filed with NHTSA about this model year, newest first. Complaints are filed by owners and are not verified by NHTSA; NHTSA removes personal details before publishing.
3 complaints on file, page 1 of 1.
- Filed Dec 27, 2021Failure Sep 1, 2021Tobyhanna, PAElectrical system
the window switch that operates the window goes bad on every single one of these trucks . the switch controls windows , door locks dome light and mirror heat. the switch is unavailable to buy as a part , the part is on national backorder with no estimated time . the window does not go up or down . the window needs to work in order for the vehicle to pass safety inspection . this makes it safety issue .
NHTSA complaint 11445089 - Filed Jul 8, 2016Failure Feb 16, 201640,000 milesHolmen, WIPower train, Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 PETERBILT 579. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH OVER AN UNEVEN ROAD SURFACE, A LOUD CLUNKING NOISE EMITTED AND THE STEERING COLUMN RELEASED INDEPENDENTLY ONTO THE CONTACT'S LAP. THE LOCKING MECHANISM WAS ADJUSTED AND THE STEERING COLUMN WAS PLACED BACK INTO THE CORRECT POSITION. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON THREE SEPARATE OCCASIONS WHEN DRIVING OVER A BUMP OR UNEVEN ROAD SURFACES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 40,000. UPDATED 09/28/16*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BY REPLACING THE LOCKING CAM AND SPRING. ALSO, THE GEAR SHIFT LEVER MOVED TO EASILY WHEN BUMPED. *JS
NHTSA complaint 10883505 - Filed Jul 5, 2016Failure Apr 4, 201680 milesKeota, OKPower train
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 PETERBILT 579. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL ACTIVATED, THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY SHIFTED INTO NEUTRAL BEFORE GOING BACK INTO DRIVE. THE FAILURE RECURRED WHENEVER THE VEHICLE WAS OPERATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80.
NHTSA complaint 10882597
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations
1 NHTSA investigation on file
- PE20006 Preliminary evaluation, Steering
Intermittent Loss of Power Steering Assist
Opened May 1, 2020, closed Mar 27, 2024
Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
Service bulletins
76 manufacturer communications cover this model year
Technical service bulletins and other notices the manufacturer sent to dealers. A bulletin is not a recall; the 60 most recent are listed.
- P001 Sep 11, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
"Kenworth: Dealers should check the chassis list and SIR weekly for VIN changes. 2 chassis added to the chassis list. Peterbilt: Dealers should check the chassis list and SIR weekly for VIN changes. 10 chassis added to the chassis list." - E324 Jul 16, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The campaign expiration date has been changed to 03/01/2027. - 02-177 May 6, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Troubleshooting procedures for 2.1m cab power windows are now available. - 32-025 Nov 22, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Info Only Unnecessary starter replacements can result from customer complaints regarding engine starting issues. A new Starter Troubleshooting Guide has been created to provide a comprehensive list of starting system checks, which should reduce unnecessary… - E304 Oct 3, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Emissions Recall Certain vehicles with PACCAR MX-11 and MX-13 EMY2016 engines with less than 300,000 miles (482,803 km) have been shown, in testing, to exceed regulatory limits for NOx and N2O emissions. This bulletin now applies to both Canadian and … - 28-001 Sep 18, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
For all Peterbilt chassis equipped with an air shifted PTO. Oil from the air shift cover of the PTO may leak into the air line, causing the EOA solenoid to become inoperative. - 01-079 Jun 23, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix-as-Fail - HVAC Intermittently Stops Blowing Cold Air - 21PBN Nov 7, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
21PBN – LNG/CNG Methane Detecti on System Will Not Warn Operator if System Loses Power – NHTSA ID:21V00N, TC: 2021-793 - 14-043 Sep 9, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix-As-Fail On certain chassis with Low Air Leaf Suspension or Low-Low Air Leaf Suspension, the Height Control Valve (HCV) arm may be rubbing on other components when the bend in the arm is facing outboard. Flipping the bend in the HCV arm inboard prevents … - 13-060 Aug 3, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The service information for Bendix Air Dryer maintenance is being updated to include new procedures. - 21PBN Jan 7, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Interim Safety Recall – Methane detection system will not warn the operator if the system loses power. The driver could be unaware of an issue with the methane detection system or excessive methane present, increasing the risk of a fire, crash and/or person… - 26-038 Dec 2, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Non-Safety Campaign: Eaton Endurant transmissions may experience premature Main Drive Gear damage due to clutch housing and main case countershaft bearing bore wear. A Clutch Housing Front Cover Kit will be installed to address the issue. - 43-071 Sep 21, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix-As-Fail – Due to undersupply issues, only a limited supply of Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) sensors are available. As a temporary solution, after PACCAR confirms a DEF sensor is not available, a temporary software update will allow a vehicle to continue op… - E271 Jun 8, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
An engine software update is required to resolve OBD system readiness, DEF doser diagnostics, and otherOBD system software related issues. - FRN215-3Custltr Nov 13, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Sample Customer Letter - 215-3 Sleeper Heater Core O-Ring Leaking - 02-161 Apr 13, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Non-Safety Campaign- Chassis Fairings become loose and rattle. - 02-160 Feb 10, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Information Only – Windshield washer pumps have a high No Trouble Found rate. Washer pumps may fail to spray due to a clogged filter. - 32-018 Feb 25, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Non-Safety Campaign – Chassis with the City Horn option may generate unexpected alerts. A VECU software update is available to resolve the issue. - 32-017 Feb 25, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Non-Safety Campaign – The batteries may drain quickly due to the VECU not going to sleep. Updated VECU software is available to resolve the issue. - 116-1 Jul 13, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
SmartNav 2.0 Hardware retrofit for quality validation and vehicle validation units. - 01-079 Nov 11, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix as Fail The HVAC system, on model 579 and 567 vehicles manufactured since 1/20/2012 may have inadequate temperature control. The HVAC may intermittently stop blowing cold air, typically after a truck restart. Driver may notice the system returns to nor… - 02-158 Aug 25, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix as Fail: Peterbilt has determined that certain model 348, 365, 367, 382, 384, 386, 388, 389, 567, 579, and 587 trucks, built between 4/13/2010 and 3/16/2020 and equipped with a flush mounted battery box, utilized rubber washers that could rub through a… - 13-054 Jul 29, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix-As-Fail - Bendix New-Gen Lightweight Steer Axle Drum Brake Spider Cracking - 32-015 Jun 8, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Information Only: This bulletin provides dealers with a battery warranty quick reference guide to ensure the appropriate tests for battery warranty are performed in order to prevent battery warranty claims filed with incorrect or incomplete information. - 43-067 Jun 10, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix as Fail: For all conventional models, except 387/587, equipped with Side-of-Cab (“SOC”) exhaust and built from 03/6/2006 to 1/20/2020, the clamps that secure the SOC exhaust stacks may not be tightened properly. This may allow the exhaust stack to rota… - 11-001 May 29, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Information only: Hendrickson Softek front axle maintenance intervals and requirements. - 18PBB Apr 30, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Safety Recall Bulletin: Updated with permanent repair path for phase 1 vehicles. The Tractor ABS Lamp May Not Illuminate When ABS Controller Loses Battery and/or Ignition Power. NHTSA recall number is 18V368. Non compliance to FMVSS and CMVSS 121 and 136… - 20PBA Apr 17, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
"Safety Recall: NHTSA recall number is 20V130. A defect, which relates to motor vehicle safety, may exist in certain Model 365, 389, 567, and 579 vehicles manufactured between April 18, 2014 and March 09, 2020 with a left-hand under hood jumper start term… - 20 PBC Apr 15, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Safety Recall Interim Bulletin: The Tractor ABS Lamp May Not Illuminate When ABS Controller Loses Battery and/or Ignition Power. NHTSA recall number is 20V199 Non compliance to FMVSS and CMVSS 121 and 136. Resolution is to Reflash software. - 43-066 Mar 27, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
DEF tank covers may become loose and potentially crack on vehicles built before October 2019 with DEF tank part number M86-6221-003**(TANK-DEF MEDIUM ASSY) and M86-6222-003**(TANK-DEF LARGE, ASSY). Resolution is to resolve the vibration on the tank cover b… - 34-085 Mar 3, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Information Only – Vehicles may have the connector seals on the wheel speed sensor incorrectly installed, which may lead to water intrusion and corrosion in some vehicles. - 20PBA Mar 31, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Safety Recall Interim Bulletin: Peterbilt has decided that a defect, which relates to motor vehicle safety, may exist in certain Model 365, 389, 567, and 579 vehicles manufactured between April 18, 2014 and September 30, 2019 with a left-hand under hood jum… - 34-086 Mar 26, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix as Fail: Peterbilt has determined in model 567 and 579 vehicles built after 2011, the door harnesses may fail due to repeated door open and close cycles. Resolution is to replace the door harness with a more robust designed harness if a failure is exp… - 32-016 Mar 17, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Information Only: Proper jump-starting voltage will eliminate high voltage related issues and equipment damage. - 34-085 Feb 28, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Information Only: Vehicles may have the connector seal on the wheel speed sensor incorrectly installed, which may lead to sensor corrosion. - 03-071 Dec 18, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Information Only - Vehicles built with NAMUX software from 2013 to present may experience accuracy issues with the tachometer. The issue can be temporarily resolved using any one of the included procedures. - 01-078 Dec 20, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix as Fail: Peterbilt has determined that certain models 567 and 579 vehicles built after January 01, 2013 with an Espar fuel fire heater and SmartAir may have an auto On/Off malfunction at lower temperatures. User may experience lack of heat function on… - 01-077 Dec 20, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix as Fail: Peterbilt has determined that model 567 and 579 vehicles built after January 01, 2013 and equipped with Espar fuel fire heater and SmartAir may have temperature overshoot issue. User may experience higher sleeper interior temperature than the … - 01-071 Nov 22, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix as Fail: Certain Models 579 and 567 vehicles manufactured with a Cummins ISX-15 engine built before 11/05/2018 the evaporator core may crack. An improved suction line has been released to alleviate the stress that may cause a cracked evaporator core - 01-075 Nov 6, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Information Only: This bulletin provides guidance for repairing an air-conditioning system after internal failure of the A/C compressor. - 02-152 Oct 30, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix as Fail: Certain model 579 trucks manufactured between September 5, 2014 and May 25, 2018 may have a faux door panel on the fairing with an insufficient weld that could result in the panel loosening. Resolution is to replace the applicable door panel … - 16-041 Sep 27, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Non Safety Campaign: Peterbilt has determined that certain Model 365, 384, 386, 388, 389, 3895, 587 and 579 vehicles built between March 27, 2012 and January 20, 2019 with Flex Air suspension in a 6x2 configuration have U-bolts that may fail prematurely. - TIB43-062 Sep 27, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Information Only â“ This bulletin provides information about the California Air Resources Board (CARB) Periodic Smoke Inspection Program (PSIP) and Heavy Duty Vehicle Inspection Program (HDVIP). - 02-150 Aug 22, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix as Fail Vehicles equipped with chassis fairings may have battery box openings that allow debris to enter the box. A battery box closeout has been designed and when installed will prevent debris from entering the battery box. - 42-056 Aug 28, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix-As-Fail -“ Composite fittings used in the cooling system may crack, resulting in coolant leaks. Brass fittings are available to replace the composite fittings. - 42-058 Aug 23, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix-As-Fail: Two separate causes have been identified as root cause of intermittent low coolant indicator illumination. - 01-073 Aug 2, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix as Fail HVAC system may demonstrate inadequate temperature control, be stuck in defrost mode, or have intermittent changes in fan speed that can be remedied with an updated HVAC software. - 34-066 Jun 10, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Information Only - Quick Reference Guide for Electric harness damage repairs. - 03-070 Jun 10, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix as Fail: Vehicles built 11/30/15 to 7/18/16 may display an error message in the Service Advised display after updating CECU software. - 34-077 Apr 8, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Information Only: Proper instructions for closure of power distribution box cover to prevent corrosion. - 18PBC Jan 9, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Safety Recall: Vehicles fail to confirm with FMVSS/CMVSS No 108 - Table 1-a requirements for intermediate side marker lamp and reflex reflector. - 13-049 Jan 4, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Information: Bendix ACOM Software version 6.16.5.0 for diagnostics may introduce an unrecoverable error. Notice to dealers to replace this version with older software version until Bendix introduces new version. - 34-064 Jan 24, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Non-Safety Campaign: Vehicles may have a fuse installed in the PDC (Power Distribution Center) in a location unable to support the amperage. - 34-070 Oct 10, 2018 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix as Fail: DAVIE4 Service Tool is unable to support software updates on VECU's with Incorrect Hardware Part Numbers - 03-064 Jul 23, 2018 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Information - Recommended Practices for Updating ESA Software - 26-031 Jul 6, 2018 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Non-Safety Campaign - Chassis with Eaton Manual or Ultrashift transmissions may experience loosening of the bellhousing bolts. - 32-010 Apr 6, 2018 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Information only - Customer installed inverters may be wired incorrectly. - 15-17 Feb 9, 2018 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix-As-Fail - Low Beam Headlamp Bulb Diagnosis (Inspect Bulb and Connector) - 7-17 Jan 22, 2018 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix-As-Fail ? There is an updated plug to fix leaking steer axle hubcaps. - 19-17 Dec 13, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Informational Only - Peterbilt 579 aero bumper radar cover license plate grommets require 1/4"x 20 x 3/4"long fasteners.
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.