AutoStatsIQ
Data through Oct 2026
Model year

2021 Peterbilt 579

Heavy truck, diesel, 6x4, built in United States. Owner complaints on file from Jan 14, 2023 to Jan 14, 2023.

Recalls (9)Complaints (1)Investigations (0)Bulletins (116)
Recall campaigns covering this model year9300k vehicles or units across those campaigns
Owner complaints1Close to the median 2021 heavy truck
Severity index0.02021 heavy trucks average 14.3
First 24 months0Complaints in its first two years
Complaints over time

Complaints about the 2021 Peterbilt 579 peaked in 2023, with 1 filed

Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.

00.250.50.75120231202420252026
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. The lighter column runs through October.
Components

100% of complaints about the 2021 Peterbilt 579 name electrical system

Owner complaints by component. Hover or focus a bar for the crash, fire, injury or death count.

Electrical system
1
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. A complaint can name more than one component; it is counted under the first.
Recalls

9 recall campaigns cover the 2021 Peterbilt 579

Check a specific vehicle by VIN on NHTSA's site: a campaign may cover only part of a model year's production.

Recall campaigns for the 2021 Peterbilt 579
CampaignFiledSubjectComponentVehiclesRemedy
24V-915Dec 9, 2024Electrical noise and low signal to the power line carrier may cause the ECU to incorrectly process commands or stop functioningElectrical system220,764Software update
24V-190Mar 20, 2024Right-hand gear shifter stalk connectors may have been improperly crimped, resulting in a loss of communicationPowertrain70,509Part replacement
23V-653Sep 27, 2023U-bolts that attach the air tank to the chassis may contact the fuel tank and over time, wear a hole in the tankFuel system1,315Part replacement
23V-423Jun 13, 2023Fastener on the front spring bracket may have been installed with the head on the outside of the frame rail, which can chafe and damage the…Electrical system4,967Part replacement
21V00N000Dec 29, 2021Methane detection system will not function if the system loses powerElectrical system1,107Not stated
21V-906Nov 19, 2021Work brake (winch brake) may unintentionally disengage the service brakes during winching operations, causing the vehicle to rollElectrical system908Software update
21V-648Aug 19, 2021Cross member mounted Hill Start Assist valve assembly may have insufficient clearance to the rear axle, causing damage to the rear brake hose and…Brakes163Inspection
21V-328May 10, 2021Spring brake chamber may have been assembled with incorrect springs that were out of specification, which may cause the pressure plate to shiftBrakes13Part replacement
21V-080Feb 17, 2021Capscrews that attach the flywheel to the crankshaft may have been improperly torqued, allowing the flywheel to detachEngine and cooling132Repair or modification
Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Look up a VIN at NHTSA
Owner complaints

What owners reported about the 2021 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.

1 complaint on file, page 1 of 1.

  1. Filed Jan 14, 2023Failure Jan 14, 2022North Pole, AKElectrical system

    I was driving on a freeway when suddenly my truck lost all power. I managed to coast to a safe spot to park. I immediately opened hood and started troubleshooting. Left key on so I'd know if power came back on. After about 10 minutes of moving wires gently I found the issue. A power wire plug connected to cab. I wiggled it and everything worked again. Messed up again and again, that day. Vehicle was still warrantied, but shops didn't have time to get it in. Finally I found a temporary solution. If I hold wire sideways after cutting zip ties it wouldn't mess up again. Shop said they must replace entire wire. Totally a safety issue. Could have resulted in bad situations if it happened at the wrong time.

    NHTSA complaint 11501812
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations

NHTSA has not opened an investigation on this model year

Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
All investigations
Service bulletins

116 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.
  • 24KWL/PBL Aug 13, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    The verbiage in the Introduction section has been updated.
  • 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.
  • E316 Aug 1, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    235 chassis have been removed from the chassis list and unflagged in PRWS due to expiration of applicable warranty coverage. 5 chassis have been added to the chassis list. The total chassis population is now 15,637.
  • 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.
  • E316 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 …
  • CE030 Jun 24, 2026 · Warranty Program/Extension
    "KW & PB 14 fuel injector part numbers (seven for MX-11 and seven for MX-13 engines) have been added to this warranty policy."
  • 43-080 Jun 3, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    "KW: A new recommended repair has been added to verify the software level and close the campaign in SIR.The repair procedure has been updated with additional note boxes for clear instructions. PB: The repair procedure has been updated with additional note …
  • R2103 Jun 2, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Updated the point of contact for sourcing the MX Engine Overlay Harness Kits. This retrofit should have been completed by 5/15/2022 per the Action section of the bulletin. However, trucks still open in SIR are still eligible for the repairs.
  • 02-177 May 6, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Troubleshooting procedures for 2.1m cab power windows are now available.
  • 43-087 May 5, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    (KW) Certain T680 / T800 / T880 / W900 / W990 have updated GHG labels available for order and installation.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 01-090 Mar 28, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Bulletin Update 03/02/2026 - A Meritor OnTrac case submission is required prior to repairs being completed. Failure to do so may result in warranty claim denial. See the procedure section for more details.
  • E335 Mar 25, 2026 · Emissions
    Expiration Date Format Update - Certain EPA21 compliant PACCAR MX-13 engines were built with intake valve springs that could fail. This failure can cause significant damage to the engine. New intake valve springs will be installed.
  • 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.
  • 24PBE_KWE Feb 11, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    The Parts section has been updated to clarify that freight charges for safety recall orders should not be passed on to the end customer.
  • 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…
  • 46-019 Nov 4, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Repair procedures and warranty information for model 520EV are now available. Certain Peterbilt 579EV and 520EV chassis have the First Responder Guide (FRG) label incorrectly showing the cut loop on the wrong side and are missing the Low Voltage Battery Dis…
  • 01-090 Nov 4, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Repair procedures and warranty information for model 520EV are now available. The cab heater coolant system on Peterbilt 579EV and 520EV models may not deaerate properly, causing pump malfunctions and inadequate cab heating. Update coolant deaeration return…
  • 24PBE Nov 26, 2025 · Service Campaign
    The right-hand shift stalk may have an improper wire harness terminal crimp within the wire harness connector. Loss of communication between the right-hand shift stalk and the vehicle may result in the vehicle being disabled after it comes to a stop, thereb…
  • 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…
  • E318 Jun 7, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Newly designed fuel injectors are available for EPA2021 compliant PACCAR MX-series engines to optimize engine performance. Injectors must be replaced as a full set (6 injectors) and associated software must be updated at the same time.
  • 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…
  • E327 Feb 27, 2025 · Emissions
    "Vehicles equipped with PACCAR MX engines with Engine Software Version NA202 or NA206 may display a dash STOP lamp incorrectly. PCI-2 software on these chassis must be reverted from NA202 to NA201 (Pack 2 injectors) or from NA206 to NA191 (Pack 1 injectors…
  • 46-013 Feb 5, 2025 · Service Campaign
    Certain Peterbilt 579EV and 520EV Battery Electric Vehicles were built prior to the availability of certain labels and Low Voltage Distribution System (LVDS) Components. Affected chassis will be inspected and necessary components will be installed.
  • 24PBL Jan 10, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Safety Recall Updated software and procedures are now available. Certain Vehicle Model Year 2021-2025 Peterbilt chassis configured for trailer towing require a software update for the Bendix EC80 ABS ECU. Software update procedures for certain Battery-Elect…
  • 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…
  • 46-011 Nov 27, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Some 579EV and 520EV BEV trucks may have loose or improperly torqued ESS gland nuts. This may cause an intermittent warning light on the dash display.
  • 7-700 Oct 22, 2024 · Warranty Program/Extension
    7/700 Service Agreement - Letter Only.
  • E290 Sep 24, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    FIX-AS-FAIL Updated to include EPA2024 compliant engines. Fuel Filters must be changed before first cleaning. EPA2021 injector cleaning is referenced in RMI for certain injector faults. Complete the procedures in E290. Discard any previous versions of E2…
  • 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.
  • E316 Aug 16, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Bulletin updated to include oil pan drain plug in parts list and incorporated QR code to direct dealers to informational resources for new Programmable Torque Tool.
  • 46-001 HVAC Update Aug 2, 2024 · Other
    BEV Phase 2 tools have been added to the BEV required tools lists.
  • 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…
  • 34-095 Feb 5, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Fix As Fail – Dimensions and instructions are available for trimming the radiator recirculation shields to alleviate possible rub to the hood harness. (ARC 1/22/24)
  • 34-095 Jan 22, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Fix As Fail – Dimensions and instructions are available for trimming the radiator recirculation shields to alleviate possible rub to the hood harness.
  • 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 …
  • 23PBH Nov 3, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Safety Recall Parts are now available to remedy this issue. Certain model year 2021 to 2024, 567 and 579 vehicles built from 06/22/2020 through 06/16/2023 were equipped with air tank bracket G11-6439-009mounted behind a fuel tank without a frame spacer. T…
  • E290 Nov 20, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Updated procedures and SRT time to include Fuel Filter replacement during cleaning process. Removed in-tank additive references.
  • E292 PB Oct 2, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Campaign Certain EPA2021 chassis equipped with PACCAR MX engines have Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) Catalyst contamination that occurred during manufacturing. SCR Catalyst assemblies will be inspected and replaced as necessary.
  • 45-065 Oct 6, 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.
  • E306 Oct 18, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Incorrect fuel filter drain and replacement procedures on EPA21 MX-11 and MX-13 engines can result in the following: .Debris and contaminants introduced into the high-pressure fuel system. .Denial of warranty claims for injector and/or fuel system faults…
  • 45-066 Oct 17, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    A testing procedure has been created for the coolant level sensor on model 520.
  • 23PBH Oct 20, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Interim Safety Recall Certain model year 2021 to 2024, 567 and 579 vehicles built from 06/22/2020 through 06/16/2023 were equipped with air tank bracket G11-6439-009mounted behind a fuel tank without a frame spacer. The air tank mounting U-bolts are differ…
  • 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.
  • E283 Jun 9, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    UPDATE - 06-09-2023 - This Campaign is being extended to December 30, 2023.
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.
About service bulletins