Complaints over time
Complaints about the 2020 Peterbilt 579 peaked in 2020, with 1 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
2020 Peterbilt 579
Heavy truck, diesel, 6x4, built in United States. Owner complaints on file from Sep 22, 2020 to Apr 10, 2026.
Recall campaigns covering this model year659k vehicles or units across those campaigns
Owner complaints4Close to the median 2020 heavy truck
Severity index0.02020 heavy trucks average 5.7
First 24 months1Complaints in its first two years
Components
25% of complaints about the 2020 Peterbilt 579 name electrical system
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
6 recall campaigns cover the 2020 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22V-277 | Apr 25, 2022 | Dana D-Series axle steer arm fasteners that attach the steering arm to the steering knuckle may fail | Steering | 17,641 | Part replacement |
| 21V00N000 | Dec 29, 2021 | Methane detection system will not function if the system loses power | Electrical system | 1,107 | Not stated |
| 21V-906 | Nov 19, 2021 | Work brake (winch brake) may unintentionally disengage the service brakes during winching operations, causing the vehicle to roll | Electrical system | 908 | 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 |
| 19V-733 | Oct 15, 2019 | Conspicuity tape may have been installed in the incorrect location, affecting the vehicle's visibility to other drivers on the road | Visibility and wipers | 248 | Repair or modification |
| 19V-340 | May 1, 2019 | Mirror glass may detach from the mirror carrier plate due to inadequate adhesion | Visibility and wipers | 3,907 | Part replacement |
Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Owner complaints
What owners reported about the 2020 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.
4 complaints on file, page 1 of 1.
- Filed Apr 10, 2026Failure Mar 13, 2026Hortense, GA, GAPower train
Camshaft failure as described in previous service bulletins for same year, make, model truck and Paccar MX-17 engine. Available for inspection as truck is not operational. Vehicle has been inspected by mechanic and no warning, messages, or other symptoms prior to the failure being noticed and inspected to locate issue.
NHTSA complaint 11730456 - Filed Sep 18, 2025Failure Sep 17, 2024349,571 milesMesa, AZSpeedometer/odometer
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2020 Peterbilt 579. The contact stated that while attempting to register the vehicle, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 217,000, and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 349,571.
NHTSA complaint 11688101 - Filed Dec 19, 2023Failure Dec 18, 2023Alta Loma, CAAutomatic emergency braking, Service brakes
Vehicle has a following distance sensor on front bumper. Sensor is sensing overpasses when traveling underneath them and that should not be detected. Vehicle is automatically applying hard braking. This is causing a possible rear end collision and or loss of vehicle controll in wet conditions.
NHTSA complaint 11560967 - Filed Sep 22, 2020Failure Sep 17, 2020180,000 milesHoricon, WIElectronic stability control (esc)
EOA SUPPORT BRACKET BROKE OFF AND THE EOA MANIFOLD FELL INTO THE DRIVE SHAFT CAUSING THE LOSS OF AIR PRESSURE. THE TRUCK WAS ON THE INSTATE IN THE CITY.
NHTSA complaint 11360473
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations
NHTSA has not opened an investigation on this model year
Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
Service bulletins
104 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." - E343 Sep 5, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
An exhaust manifold slip joint seal kit is now available for EPA 2017-2024 PACCAR MX-13 engines. - 43-088 Aug 13, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The procedure has been updated to include additional steps for verifying the software level on the vehicle electronic control unit (VECU2) and digital display (DD). Steps have also been added to the PACCAR Common Rail Injection 2 (PCI2) software verification. - E311 Jul 25, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
105 chassis have been removed from the chassis list and unflagged in PRWS due to expiration of applicable warranty coverage. Total chassis population is 732. - 43-088 Jul 21, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
This optional software update is now available for chassis equipped with EMY 2021B-2023 PACCAR MX-11 and MX-13 engines. This update provides customers with additional time to service their trucks before a DEF-related derate occurs. The software is being off… - 41-029 Jul 18, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Incorrect air filters may be inadvertently installed in certain chassis equipped with under-hood Donaldson air filter housings. - E311 Jul 10, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The Condition, Chassis Affected, Service Action, Warranty, and Procedure sections have been updated to include the latest prognostics bulletin verbiage. - 43-088 Jul 7, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
"The software is not yet available. The bulletin will be updated when more information is available." - 43-088 Jun 29, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
"An optional software update will be available on 07/06/2026 for chassis equipped with EMY 2021B-2023PACCAR MX-11 and MX-13 engines. This update provides customers with additional time to service theirtrucks before a DEF-related derate occurs. The software … - 02-177 May 6, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Troubleshooting procedures for 2.1m cab power windows are now available. - 41-024 May 1, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Procedures have been updated to include additional truck models in the service intervals table. - 42-064 Apr 30, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix-as-Fail On certain Kenworth T680 chassis equipped with PACCAR MX-13 engines, wiring to the Horton LCX230 crank-mounted fan drive may experience a short due to chafing or water ingress, affecting fan drive operation. - 45-070 Apr 17, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The attached procedures document has been updated with more detail and explanations. This is not a stand-alone procedure. Cummins Quickserve troubleshooting will specify the use of these procedures while troubleshooting specific fault codes. - CE037 Apr 17, 2026 · Warranty Program/Extension
KW & PB DEF Quality Sensor part number Q21-6127-001 for Cummins X15 engines has been added to this warranty policy. - 14-034 Apr 16, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Bogie Crossmember Torque Value Update - Procedure has been updated to correct torque values. - E326 Apr 1, 2026 · Emissions
EPA17-24 MX Fuel Injector Connector - This bulletin has been revised to include all EPA17-24 and CARB24 PACCAR MX engines. - 41-024 Mar 11, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Engine Air Filter Servicing UPDATE - Procedures are available to support the maintenance, service intervals, and intake system inspection process for all engine air intake system components. - 14-036 Mar 4, 2026 · Other
One-Piece Aluminum Crossmember Repair - Repair procedures are available to support the replacement of intermediate or midship one-piece aluminum crossmembers. - 45-070 Jan 31, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Procedure pictures updated for clarity. When troubleshooting Cummins X15 fault codes 555 or 556, follow this additional testing, inspection, and documentation procedure to help identify the root cause of dusted engines. This is not a stand-alone process bu… - E311 Aug 20, 2025 · Other
Condition, Chassis Affected, and Warranty sections updated with the following verbiage “E311 must be flagged and open in Service Information Record (SIR) at the time of RO open date to qualify.” Also, “Through Standard Warranty or any applicable active Exte… - T016 / 26-040 May 22, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
T016: Warranty section updated to include 0.5 hours for test drive. Recommended Repair T016C has been updated from 6.4 hours to 6.9 hours. SRT codes updated in PRWS Claim Coding Table: B25-17A for 6.9 hours created to replace all other codes. 26-040: Warra… - 98-030 May 31, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
5/29/2025: A new Ethernet Multiplexed Architecture (EMUX) Service Tool Kit service manual (SM034-022) has been released to provide general use information. The new EMUX Service Tool Kit improves cab & chassis electrical troubleshooting efficiency, while red… - 46-016 Apr 30, 2025 · Service Campaign
4/29/2025: Campaign A software update is available for 520EV and 579EV Battery Electric Vehicles. This software update corrects or improves certain functions. Software update procedures have been revised. Campaign start date is 12/05/2024. Campaign A sof… - 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… - 7-700 Oct 22, 2024 · Warranty Program/Extension
7/700 Service Agreement - Letter Only. - 98-030 Sep 14, 2024 · Service Campaign
Information Only New diagnostic tool is required to support PACCAR Ethernet Multiplexed Architecture (EMUX). The EMUX Service Tool Kit will help improve cab & chassis electrical troubleshooting efficiency, while reducing the risk of component damage. - 46-014 Sep 19, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Information Only Storage guideline procedures are now available for both Medium Duty and Heavy-Duty Battery Electric Vehicles. - 16-044 Jul 30, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix As Fail The height control valve (HCV) rod on vehicles with low air leaf suspensions is prone to toggling over center during rough road conditions. With full suspension articulation, HCV bracket flexes and toggles over center the HCV linkage, which res… - 36-191 May 16, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Information Only Vehicles equipped with Digital Vision System (DVS) Mirror Mounted Cameras, that do not have optional left-hand or right-hand blind spotters, may set false Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) 522490-9 or 522491-9. These DTCs can be ignored if cor… - E273 Nov 2, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix As Fail Updated: Two part numbers added: 1818119 DPF Delta Pressure Sensors for MX-13-2 EMY18 2200138 DPF Delta Pressure Sensors for MX-13 -2, EMY19 Per Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) regulations and guidance (Canadian Environmental … - 45-066 Oct 17, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A testing procedure has been created for the coolant level sensor on model 520. - 45-065 Sep 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Certain 579 MLU chassis equipped with Cummins X15 engines have fan hub bracket hardware that are incorrect for the application and/or under torqued and could become loose and/or fail. Procedures are available to replace and properly torque the hardware. - 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 - 36-008 May 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Certain 579 chassis are eligible to receive production level Digital Display software, Digital Display, Lane Keep Assist MUX switches, and Kick Panel. - 02-178 Apr 13, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix As Fail – Certain 579, and New Model 579 chassis that were manufactured with a Bendix forward looking camera system may experience bracket failure causing the bracket and camera to fall from the windshield. - 34-096 Apr 13, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix As Fail – All New Model 579 chassis with Bendix radar opti on may have a harness rub against the radiator that is causing possible damage. - 32-019 Feb 10, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix As Fail – Chassis that were manufactured with certain battery cable routing brackets may experience rubbing or chafing of the battery cables. - E303 Jan 12, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
This campaign is the final opportunity to replace the oil filter screw cap to reduce occurrences of broken bypass valve tabs. Broken oil valve tabs can cause oil flow obstruction to critical engine parts, resulting in serious engine damage. Customers that d… - 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 - 45-064 Oct 18, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Info Only - PACCAR is introducing Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates for engine MY17 and newer chassis equipped with Cummins X15, X12, ISX12, ISX12N, L9N, PX-7, and PX-9 engines The technology will leverage the existing Remote Diagnostic cs hardware to del… - 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. - 02-165 Aug 18, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix-As-Fail: Forces being applied to the split fender and fairing structure are causing the connection to crack and potentially separate. Reinforcement brackets secure the connection and prevent separation. - 04-019 Apr 4, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A roof fairing reinforcement kit increases structural support for one-piece 579 roof fairings that are experiencing fatigue from external forces such as reverse towing. - 13-057 Mar 3, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix-As-Fail ⓠA hill start assist (HSA) valve plumbing revision eliminates ice buildup in the HSA valve exhaust in cold weather. - 51-013 Feb 4, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Due to major data carriers phasing out 3G networks, chassis currently utilizing first generation Peoplenet Mobile Gateway (PMG001) will experience severe 3G service degradation as early as January of 2022. Chassis currently utilizing 3G antennas as a primar… - 34-090 Feb 4, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A frame mounted left-hand marker light bracket interferes with the rear fuel tank fill location. A redesigned bracket can be purchased that relocates the marker bracket to the front fuel tank bracket to eliminate interference. - 41-020 Feb 4, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The Turbo Inlet Elbow is susceptible to tearing, potentially allowing dust to enter the engine. The Turbo Inlet Elbow will be replaced with an improved part. - 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… - R2103 Jan 10, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Retrofit - The emissions exemption will be expiring on 5/15/2022 for certain pre-production vehicles equipped with PACCAR MX-11 and MX-13 EPA 2021 Emissions engines. Production-level components are now available to make these vehicles compliant. - T012 Dec 2, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Non-Safety Campaign: Drivers of vehicles equipped with PACCAR TX-12 transmissions may experience harsh shifts and gear grinding noise. Premature Main Drive Gear damage may occur due to clutch housing and main case countershaft bearing bore wear. - 21PBM Dec 2, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
âSafety Recall â“ Work Brake May Unintentionally Disengage â“ NHTSA ID: 21V906, TC: 2021-713. The work brake (also known as winch brake) may unintentionally disengage during winching operations, releasing the service brakes, increasing the risk of crash or … - 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. - 42-059 Nov 9, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Non-Safety Campaign - Vehicles with a Cummins X15 engine and Horton fan drive may set Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) 6637 and/or 3838 due to fan speed that results in the fan remaining activated until the power is cycled. A new controller will resolve the is… - 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… - 02-168 Sep 20, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Information Only - Rear axle Quarter Fenders with less than two inches of clearance between the top of the quarter fender and the bottom of the trailer/equipment are susceptible to damage. The lack of clearance could result in cracked/broken quarter fenders… - 21 PBJ Sep 7, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Safety Recall – Hill Start Assist (HSA) Valve Clearance – NHTSA ID: 21V-648, TC: 2021-521. Crossmember mounted Hill Start Assist valve may not have sufficient clearance to the rear axle, resulting in hose or fitting damage. Damage could cause the loss of r… - 52-004 Jul 19, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Fix-as-Fail: Radio does not mute when truck with auto trans is placed in reverse. Software flash resolves issue. - 36-007 Jun 8, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Non-Safety Campaign - Certain Peterbilt Model 579 vehicles may have an incorrect blind spot sensor installed on the right-hand side.
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.