The Kenworth C500 spans 1981–2005 with 52 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 4.0/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 1999, 2005, 2004 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 1981, 1982, 1983. It delivers competitive fuel economy and NHTSA-rated safety.
How we score: NHTSA crash-test safety (40%), recall frequency across all years (25%) and the share of owner complaints involving a crash, fire or injury (35%). Based on NHTSA & EPA data — not user reviews.
Overview
The Kenworth C500 is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 1981 to 2005 across multiple generations.
How to read a Kenworth C500 VIN — every digit explained
Every Kenworth C500 carries a unique 17-character VIN stamped at the factory. Each position is a code — together they spell out where, when and how your car was built. Here's exactly what every digit means.
- WMI (1–3) — country & manufacturer. Tells you it's a Kenworth and the country it was built in (real Kenworth codes below).
- VDS (4–8) — model, body style, engine, trim & restraints. The 8th digit is the engine code.
- Check digit (9) — a math check that proves the VIN is genuine.
- Model year (10) — the year it was built (e.g. R = 2024, S = 2025).
- Plant (11) — which factory assembled this C500.
- Serial (12–17) — the unique sequential production number.
- Mexico3WK · 3WM · 3XK
- USA1XK
- Canada2XK
- UKSFN
Digits 4–17 — the engine code (8th), model-year letter (10th) and plant — follow the universal SAE standard, identical on every car. For the full year-code table (2001–2026), country codes and where the VIN is stamped on your C500, see the complete guide to reading a VIN.
How many recalls does the Kenworth C500 have?
The Kenworth C500 has 52 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1981–2005. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.
2005 Kenworth C500 recalls 5
Power Train:automatic Transmission
What's wrong. On certain trucks, the wiring, parts, or transmission programming required for the auto neutral feature to function as designed were either not installed, connected, or programmed properly.
Risk. If any of these conditions exists, the transmission will not automatically shift into neutral when left in drive with the parking brake set engaged. The vehicle could move without warning increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the affected vehicles to ensure the auto neutral feature functions properly and, if needed, will make the necessary repairs free of charge. The recall began on may 9, 2007. Owners may contact kenworth at 425-828-5440.
Suspension
What's wrong. On certain heavy duty class 8 trucks, the suspension has transverse beam castings that may fracture under normal loads. If a casting breaks when the vehicle is traveling on a roadway there is the potential for pieces of the casting to become projectiles and the suspension's transverse beam may drop down low enough to contact the road surface.
Risk. This could cause sparks that could potentially ignite and cause a fire.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the defective transverse beam assemblies free of charge. The recall began on june 10, 2005, with letters being mailed to peterbilt owners; and on june 17, 2005, for kenworth owners. Owners may contact peterbilt at 940-591-4201 or kenworth at 425-828-5440.
Engine And Engine Cooling
What's 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.
Fix. 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.
Service Brakes, Air:slack Adjusters
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling 130 my 2005-2007 kenworth c500, t800, w900, and peterbilt models 357 and 379 tractor trailers equipped with fabco slack adjusters on sisu axles. The slack adjusters may fail as a result of a fatigue crack rendering the slack adjuster inoperative. This could reduce braking effectiveness.
Risk. Reduction in braking capacity could increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the slack adjusters free of charge. The recall began on march 21, 2008. Owners may contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440 and peterbilt at 1-940-591-4196.
Suspension:rear
What's wrong. On certain trucks and tractors equipped with airglide high-articulation rear suspensions, the c65-1006 sway bar used in this rear suspension may experience a reduction in fatigue life due to either a manufacturing process or a high induced stress during an extreme suspension articulation event.
Risk. Both of these conditions can lead to a failure of the sway bar which could cause the rear axle to come loose, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. The inspection and repair of these vehicles will depend on the type of vehicle (tractor or truck) and the intended service application. This inspection and repair criteria will be forthcoming. The recall began on june 30, 2005. Owners may contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
2004 Kenworth C500 recalls 4
Power Train:automatic Transmission
What's wrong. On certain trucks, the wiring, parts, or transmission programming required for the auto neutral feature to function as designed were either not installed, connected, or programmed properly.
Risk. If any of these conditions exists, the transmission will not automatically shift into neutral when left in drive with the parking brake set engaged. The vehicle could move without warning increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the affected vehicles to ensure the auto neutral feature functions properly and, if needed, will make the necessary repairs free of charge. The recall began on may 9, 2007. Owners may contact kenworth at 425-828-5440.
Suspension
What's wrong. On certain heavy duty class 8 trucks, the suspension has transverse beam castings that may fracture under normal loads. If a casting breaks when the vehicle is traveling on a roadway there is the potential for pieces of the casting to become projectiles and the suspension's transverse beam may drop down low enough to contact the road surface.
Risk. This could cause sparks that could potentially ignite and cause a fire.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the defective transverse beam assemblies free of charge. The recall began on june 10, 2005, with letters being mailed to peterbilt owners; and on june 17, 2005, for kenworth owners. Owners may contact peterbilt at 940-591-4201 or kenworth at 425-828-5440.
Engine And Engine Cooling
What's 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.
Fix. 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.
Electrical System:wiring
What's wrong. On certain trucks, the power feed harness p92-1993 terminals were not properly crimped.
Risk. This could lead to intermittent power loss affecting the electrical system and possibly result in a fire.
Fix. Dealers will replace the harness. The recall began january 13, 2005. Owners should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
2003 Kenworth C500 recalls 3
Service Brakes, Air
What's wrong. Certain trucks equipped with meritor p 18x7 brakes with 36" brake chambers fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard (fmvss) no. 121, "air brake systems." these trucks were manufactured with a combined air reservoir volume less than 12 times the combined volume of all service brake chambers.
Risk. This does not meet the requirements of the standard.
Fix. Dealers will add an additional tank or change one of the existing air tanks to a larger size. Owner notification began on may 5, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
Exterior Lighting
What's wrong. Certain trucks equipped with trailer connections fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standards (fmvss) no. 121, "air brake systems," and no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment." the supplier removed a rubber grommet from the trailer light line connector. The vehicles are experiencing corrosion at the 7-way trailer connection. This causes intermittent flashing/flickering of the trailer lights.
Risk. This could cause an electrical short and/or possible fire hazard.
Fix. Dealers will install the missing grommet on all affected chassis. If a connector is found defective, it will be replaced with a new connector. Owner notification is began on march 14, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
Power Train:automatic Transmission
What's wrong. On certain trucks, the wiring, parts, or transmission programming required for the auto neutral feature to function as designed were either not installed, connected, or programmed properly.
Risk. If any of these conditions exists, the transmission will not automatically shift into neutral when left in drive with the parking brake set engaged. The vehicle could move without warning increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the affected vehicles to ensure the auto neutral feature functions properly and, if needed, will make the necessary repairs free of charge. The recall began on may 9, 2007. Owners may contact kenworth at 425-828-5440.
2002 Kenworth C500 recalls 2
Service Brakes, Air
What's wrong. Certain trucks equipped with meritor p 18x7 brakes with 36" brake chambers fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard (fmvss) no. 121, "air brake systems." these trucks were manufactured with a combined air reservoir volume less than 12 times the combined volume of all service brake chambers.
Risk. This does not meet the requirements of the standard.
Fix. Dealers will add an additional tank or change one of the existing air tanks to a larger size. Owner notification began on may 5, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
Exterior Lighting
What's wrong. Certain trucks equipped with trailer connections fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standards (fmvss) no. 121, "air brake systems," and no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment." the supplier removed a rubber grommet from the trailer light line connector. The vehicles are experiencing corrosion at the 7-way trailer connection. This causes intermittent flashing/flickering of the trailer lights.
Risk. This could cause an electrical short and/or possible fire hazard.
Fix. Dealers will install the missing grommet on all affected chassis. If a connector is found defective, it will be replaced with a new connector. Owner notification is began on march 14, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
2001 Kenworth C500 recalls 4
Service Brakes, Air
What's wrong. Certain trucks equipped with meritor p 18x7 brakes with 36" brake chambers fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard (fmvss) no. 121, "air brake systems." these trucks were manufactured with a combined air reservoir volume less than 12 times the combined volume of all service brake chambers.
Risk. This does not meet the requirements of the standard.
Fix. Dealers will add an additional tank or change one of the existing air tanks to a larger size. Owner notification began on may 5, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
Suspension:front:control Arm:lower Arm
What's wrong. Vehicle description: vehicles equipped with 54" rear axle spacing configuration of the airglide 200 suspension with the service application identified as logger, dump truck, or tanker. The rear suspension is regularly subjected to extreme articulation, resulting in flexing of the joint.
Risk. Failure of the lower sway arm attaching bolts could result in loss of vehicle control.
Fix. Dealers will replace the lower sway arm brackets. Owner notification began march 27, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5000.
Visibility:defroster/defogger/hvac System
What's wrong. Vehicle description: certain heavy duty trucks fail to comply with the requirements of fmvss no. 103, "windshield defrosting and defogging systems." the mode door in an hvac system can become inoperable. The mode door cam and actuator could bind, causing the cam retaining tabs to shear off.
Risk. This failure may inhibit the ability to direct air blowing from the hvac system to the windshield, potentially reducing the driver's visibility.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the mode door operation and replace the hvac cab mode housing assembly if necessary. Owner notification began november 7, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5000.
Electrical System:wiring:fuses And Circuit Breakers
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with an optional firewall-mounted circuit breaker. The main cab power and battery power leads were attached incorrectly. This condition can result in the main cab power being unprotected.
Risk. If a wiring short occurred anywhere along the cab power circuit, the available battery power could arc and cause subsequent damage to the vehicle or a fire.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and correct the problem, as needed. Owner notification began february 26, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5000.
2000 Kenworth C500 recalls 7
Steering:linkages:tie Rod Assembly
What's wrong. Heavy duty trucks equipped with trw tie rod ends on certain arvinmeritor and dana axles. Peterbilt will recall 1,434 vehicles equipped with arvinmeritor axles manufactured from december 11, 1999, to may 14, 2000, and from july 22 to september 30, 2000. Kenworth will recall 859 vehicles equipped with arvinmeritor vehicles manufactured from december 11, 1999, to may 23, 2000, and from july 27, 2000, to september 30, 2000 and kennworth will recall an additional 4,151 vehicles equipped with dana axles and manufactured from june 23 to december 6, 1999, and from may 23 to september 30, 2000. The tie rod and drag link ball stud ends contain bearings that are below the specified case depth and/or hardness.
Risk. This can lead to premature wear with possible separation of the ball stud from the socket, increasing the risk of loss of control of the vehicle.
Fix. Dealers will remove and replace all affected tie rods and drag links with different designed ends. Owner notification began july 15, 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact peterbilt at 1-940-591-4201 or kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
Service Brakes, Air
What's wrong. Certain trucks equipped with meritor p 18x7 brakes with 36" brake chambers fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard (fmvss) no. 121, "air brake systems." these trucks were manufactured with a combined air reservoir volume less than 12 times the combined volume of all service brake chambers.
Risk. This does not meet the requirements of the standard.
Fix. Dealers will add an additional tank or change one of the existing air tanks to a larger size. Owner notification began on may 5, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
Suspension
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with chalmers 1000 series and 800 series suspension kits. These suspension kits may have insufficient penetration of the weld attaching the torque rod eye to the torque rod tube.
Risk. Failure of the weld could result in separation of the eye and tube, causing a lock of axle retention, which could result in loss of vehicle control.
Fix. Dealers will replace all chalmers fixed torque rods on these vehicles. Owner notification began july 27, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact peterbilt at 1-940-591-4000 or kenworth at 1-425-828-5000.
Suspension:front:control Arm:lower Arm
What's wrong. Vehicle description: vehicles equipped with 54" rear axle spacing configuration of the airglide 200 suspension with the service application identified as logger, dump truck, or tanker. The rear suspension is regularly subjected to extreme articulation, resulting in flexing of the joint.
Risk. Failure of the lower sway arm attaching bolts could result in loss of vehicle control.
Fix. Dealers will replace the lower sway arm brackets. Owner notification began march 27, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5000.
Steering:linkages:tie Rod Assembly
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with trw tie rod ends on certain meritor axles. The tie rod and drag link ball stud ends contain bearings that are below the specified case depth and/or hardness.
Risk. This can lead to premature wear with possible separation of the ball stud from the socket, increasing the risk of loss of control of the vehicle.
Fix. Dealers will remove and replace all affected tie rods and drag links with different designed ends. Owner notification began october 24, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact peterbilt at 1-940-591-4000 or kenworth at 1-425-828-5000.
Electrical System:wiring:fuses And Circuit Breakers
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with an optional firewall-mounted circuit breaker. The main cab power and battery power leads were attached incorrectly. This condition can result in the main cab power being unprotected.
Risk. If a wiring short occurred anywhere along the cab power circuit, the available battery power could arc and cause subsequent damage to the vehicle or a fire.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and correct the problem, as needed. Owner notification began february 26, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5000.
Electrical System:wiring
What's wrong. On some heavy duty trucks equipped with alcoa fujikura ltd. (afl) power distribution boxes (pd box), the pd boxes were manufactured with insufficient torque applied to the nut of the main power feed-through stud.
Risk. Insufficient torque can lead to (1) electrical arcing of the wires inside of the pd box, or (2) an interrupted power supply to the vehicle's electrical system, either of which can lead to a loss of vehicle electrical power and possibly vehicle control without warning.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and tighten the nut on the main power feed-through stud. Owner notification began february 25, 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
1999 Kenworth C500 recalls 7
Steering:linkages:tie Rod Assembly
What's wrong. Heavy duty trucks equipped with trw tie rod ends on certain arvinmeritor and dana axles. Peterbilt will recall 1,434 vehicles equipped with arvinmeritor axles manufactured from december 11, 1999, to may 14, 2000, and from july 22 to september 30, 2000. Kenworth will recall 859 vehicles equipped with arvinmeritor vehicles manufactured from december 11, 1999, to may 23, 2000, and from july 27, 2000, to september 30, 2000 and kennworth will recall an additional 4,151 vehicles equipped with dana axles and manufactured from june 23 to december 6, 1999, and from may 23 to september 30, 2000. The tie rod and drag link ball stud ends contain bearings that are below the specified case depth and/or hardness.
Risk. This can lead to premature wear with possible separation of the ball stud from the socket, increasing the risk of loss of control of the vehicle.
Fix. Dealers will remove and replace all affected tie rods and drag links with different designed ends. Owner notification began july 15, 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact peterbilt at 1-940-591-4201 or kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
Service Brakes, Air
What's wrong. Certain trucks equipped with meritor p 18x7 brakes with 36" brake chambers fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard (fmvss) no. 121, "air brake systems." these trucks were manufactured with a combined air reservoir volume less than 12 times the combined volume of all service brake chambers.
Risk. This does not meet the requirements of the standard.
Fix. Dealers will add an additional tank or change one of the existing air tanks to a larger size. Owner notification began on may 5, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
Steering:linkages:tie Rod Assembly
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with tie rod assemblies manufactured by trw. The suspect tie rods contain 24-dl model ball sockets. Certain of the tie rod ball-socket bearings have a below-specification case depth and/or hardness, which can lead to premature wear of the socket.
Risk. If this condition occurs, the driver can lose partial control of the right front wheel, possibly resulting in a crash.
Fix. Dealers will replace the defective ball sockets and/or drag links. Owner notification began on april 10, 2001, to kenworth owners and on april 25, 2001, to peterbilt owners. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5000, peterbilt at 1-940-591-4000 or trw customer service at 1-866-280-3287.
Steering:linkages:tie Rod Assembly
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with trw tie rod ends on certain meritor axles. The tie rod and drag link ball stud ends contain bearings that are below the specified case depth and/or hardness.
Risk. This can lead to premature wear with possible separation of the ball stud from the socket, increasing the risk of loss of control of the vehicle.
Fix. Dealers will remove and replace all affected tie rods and drag links with different designed ends.
Suspension:front:control Arm:lower Arm
What's wrong. Vehicle description: vehicles equipped with 54" rear axle spacing configuration of the airglide 200 suspension with the service application identified as logger, dump truck, or tanker. The rear suspension is regularly subjected to extreme articulation, resulting in flexing of the joint.
Risk. Failure of the lower sway arm attaching bolts could result in loss of vehicle control.
Fix. Dealers will replace the lower sway arm brackets. Owner notification began march 27, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5000.
Steering:linkages:tie Rod Assembly
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with trw tie rod ends on certain meritor axles. The tie rod and drag link ball stud ends contain bearings that are below the specified case depth and/or hardness.
Risk. This can lead to premature wear with possible separation of the ball stud from the socket, increasing the risk of loss of control of the vehicle.
Fix. Dealers will remove and replace all affected tie rods and drag links with different designed ends. Owner notification began october 24, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact peterbilt at 1-940-591-4000 or kenworth at 1-425-828-5000.
Electrical System:wiring:fuses And Circuit Breakers
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with an optional firewall-mounted circuit breaker. The main cab power and battery power leads were attached incorrectly. This condition can result in the main cab power being unprotected.
Risk. If a wiring short occurred anywhere along the cab power circuit, the available battery power could arc and cause subsequent damage to the vehicle or a fire.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and correct the problem, as needed. Owner notification began february 26, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5000.
1998 Kenworth C500 recalls 3
Electrical System:wiring:front Underhood
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with caterpillar 3406e engines. The routing of the electrical and fuel lines can cause chaffing of the wiring harness on the fuel line.
Risk. This chaffing can cause fuel leakage and a potential for a fire in the engine compartment.
Fix. Dealers will inspect, adjust, and repair, if necessary, the fuel line and electrical harness.
Service Brakes, Air
What's wrong. Certain trucks equipped with meritor p 18x7 brakes with 36" brake chambers fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard (fmvss) no. 121, "air brake systems." these trucks were manufactured with a combined air reservoir volume less than 12 times the combined volume of all service brake chambers.
Risk. This does not meet the requirements of the standard.
Fix. Dealers will add an additional tank or change one of the existing air tanks to a larger size. Owner notification began on may 5, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
Suspension:front:control Arm:lower Arm
What's wrong. Vehicle description: vehicles equipped with 54" rear axle spacing configuration of the airglide 200 suspension with the service application identified as logger, dump truck, or tanker. The rear suspension is regularly subjected to extreme articulation, resulting in flexing of the joint.
Risk. Failure of the lower sway arm attaching bolts could result in loss of vehicle control.
Fix. Dealers will replace the lower sway arm brackets. Owner notification began march 27, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5000.
1997 Kenworth C500 recalls 3
Electrical System:wiring:front Underhood
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with caterpillar 3406e engines. The routing of the electrical and fuel lines can cause chaffing of the wiring harness on the fuel line.
Risk. This chaffing can cause fuel leakage and a potential for a fire in the engine compartment.
Fix. Dealers will inspect, adjust, and repair, if necessary, the fuel line and electrical harness.
Service Brakes, Air
What's wrong. Certain trucks equipped with meritor p 18x7 brakes with 36" brake chambers fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard (fmvss) no. 121, "air brake systems." these trucks were manufactured with a combined air reservoir volume less than 12 times the combined volume of all service brake chambers.
Risk. This does not meet the requirements of the standard.
Fix. Dealers will add an additional tank or change one of the existing air tanks to a larger size. Owner notification began on may 5, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
Suspension:front:control Arm:lower Arm
What's wrong. Vehicle description: vehicles equipped with 54" rear axle spacing configuration of the airglide 200 suspension with the service application identified as logger, dump truck, or tanker. The rear suspension is regularly subjected to extreme articulation, resulting in flexing of the joint.
Risk. Failure of the lower sway arm attaching bolts could result in loss of vehicle control.
Fix. Dealers will replace the lower sway arm brackets. Owner notification began march 27, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5000.
1996 Kenworth C500 recalls 4
Electrical System:wiring:front Underhood
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with caterpillar 3406e engines. The routing of the electrical and fuel lines can cause chaffing of the wiring harness on the fuel line.
Risk. This chaffing can cause fuel leakage and a potential for a fire in the engine compartment.
Fix. Dealers will inspect, adjust, and repair, if necessary, the fuel line and electrical harness.
Exterior Lighting:turn Signal:switch
What's wrong. The wires that correspond to the vehicle's rear turn signals were reversed when installed in the electrical connector.
Risk. This condition will cause the rear turn signals to flash opposite from the direction intended by the driver increasing the risk of a vehicle accident.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the turn signal switch and, if necessary, replace the turn signal switch.
Service Brakes, Air
What's wrong. Certain trucks equipped with meritor p 18x7 brakes with 36" brake chambers fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard (fmvss) no. 121, "air brake systems." these trucks were manufactured with a combined air reservoir volume less than 12 times the combined volume of all service brake chambers.
Risk. This does not meet the requirements of the standard.
Fix. Dealers will add an additional tank or change one of the existing air tanks to a larger size. Owner notification began on may 5, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
Suspension:front:control Arm:lower Arm
What's wrong. Vehicle description: vehicles equipped with 54" rear axle spacing configuration of the airglide 200 suspension with the service application identified as logger, dump truck, or tanker. The rear suspension is regularly subjected to extreme articulation, resulting in flexing of the joint.
Risk. Failure of the lower sway arm attaching bolts could result in loss of vehicle control.
Fix. Dealers will replace the lower sway arm brackets. Owner notification began march 27, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5000.
1995 Kenworth C500 recalls 1
Service Brakes, Air
What's wrong. Certain trucks equipped with meritor p 18x7 brakes with 36" brake chambers fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard (fmvss) no. 121, "air brake systems." these trucks were manufactured with a combined air reservoir volume less than 12 times the combined volume of all service brake chambers.
Risk. This does not meet the requirements of the standard.
Fix. Dealers will add an additional tank or change one of the existing air tanks to a larger size. Owner notification began on may 5, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
1994 Kenworth C500 recalls 1
Service Brakes, Air
What's wrong. Certain trucks equipped with meritor p 18x7 brakes with 36" brake chambers fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard (fmvss) no. 121, "air brake systems." these trucks were manufactured with a combined air reservoir volume less than 12 times the combined volume of all service brake chambers.
Risk. This does not meet the requirements of the standard.
Fix. Dealers will add an additional tank or change one of the existing air tanks to a larger size. Owner notification began on may 5, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
1993 Kenworth C500 recalls 1
Service Brakes, Air
What's wrong. Certain trucks equipped with meritor p 18x7 brakes with 36" brake chambers fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard (fmvss) no. 121, "air brake systems." these trucks were manufactured with a combined air reservoir volume less than 12 times the combined volume of all service brake chambers.
Risk. This does not meet the requirements of the standard.
Fix. Dealers will add an additional tank or change one of the existing air tanks to a larger size. Owner notification began on may 5, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
1992 Kenworth C500 recalls 1
Service Brakes, Air
What's wrong. Certain trucks equipped with meritor p 18x7 brakes with 36" brake chambers fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard (fmvss) no. 121, "air brake systems." these trucks were manufactured with a combined air reservoir volume less than 12 times the combined volume of all service brake chambers.
Risk. This does not meet the requirements of the standard.
Fix. Dealers will add an additional tank or change one of the existing air tanks to a larger size. Owner notification began on may 5, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
1991 Kenworth C500 recalls 3
Visibility:windshield Wiper/washer:linkages
What's wrong. Sprague wiper assembly pivot can seize due to galvanic corrosion between the zinc-plated steel shaft and the bronze bushings.
Risk. This corrosion can cause wiper arm/blade assembly to stopwiping windshield, this could affect driver visibility and result in anaccident.
Fix. Replace sprague wiper assembly pivot with an assembly not susceptible to galvanic corrosion.
Service Brakes, Air
What's wrong. Certain trucks equipped with meritor p 18x7 brakes with 36" brake chambers fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard (fmvss) no. 121, "air brake systems." these trucks were manufactured with a combined air reservoir volume less than 12 times the combined volume of all service brake chambers.
Risk. This does not meet the requirements of the standard.
Fix. Dealers will add an additional tank or change one of the existing air tanks to a larger size. Owner notification began on may 5, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
Steering:linkages
What's wrong. Pitman arm pinch bolts may have been inadequately torqued.
Risk. This could allow pitman arm to slip on the steering gearoutput shaft resulting in loss of control and an accident.
Fix. Retorque pinch bolts and reset as necessary.
1990 Kenworth C500 recalls 1
Visibility:windshield Wiper/washer:linkages
What's wrong. Sprague wiper assembly pivot can seize due to galvanic corrosion between the zinc-plated steel shaft and the bronze bushings.
Risk. This corrosion can cause wiper arm/blade assembly to stopwiping windshield, this could affect driver visibility and result in anaccident.
Fix. Replace sprague wiper assembly pivot with an assembly not susceptible to galvanic corrosion.
1989 Kenworth C500 recalls 1
Visibility:windshield Wiper/washer:linkages
What's wrong. Sprague wiper assembly pivot can seize due to galvanic corrosion between the zinc-plated steel shaft and the bronze bushings.
Risk. This corrosion can cause wiper arm/blade assembly to stopwiping windshield, this could affect driver visibility and result in anaccident.
Fix. Replace sprague wiper assembly pivot with an assembly not susceptible to galvanic corrosion.
1981 Kenworth C500 recalls 1
Service Brakes, Air:controls:foot Control/valve
What's wrong. The hand valve installed in the vehicle may have been incorrectly positioned. This would allow air to escape from both the front and rear service systems simultaneously if the control line to the rear axle relay valves should fail. Performance of front and rear service brakes during failure could be degraded.
Fix. The hand valve will be repositioned by the dealer, if necessary, at no charge owner.
Best and worst years for the Kenworth C500
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 25 tracked years, the worst years are 1999, 2005, 2004 and the best (fewest complaints) are 1981, 1982, 1983.
ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.
| Year | Owner complaints | Top issue | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1981 C500 | — | Best | |
| 1982 C500 | — | Best | |
| 1983 C500 | — | Best | |
| 1984 C500 | — | Average | |
| 1985 C500 | — | Average | |
| 1986 C500 | — | Average | |
| 1987 C500 | — | Average | |
| 1988 C500 | — | Average | |
| 1989 C500 | — | Average | |
| 1990 C500 | — | Average | |
| 1991 C500 | — | Average | |
| 1992 C500 | — | Average | |
| 1993 C500 | — | Average | |
| 1994 C500 | — | Average | |
| 1995 C500 | — | Average | |
| 1996 C500 | — | Average | |
| 1997 C500 | — | Average | |
| 1998 C500 | — | Average | |
| 1999 C500 | Trailer Hitches | Avoid | |
| 2000 C500 | — | Average | |
| 2001 C500 | — | Average | |
| 2002 C500 | — | Average | |
| 2003 C500 | — | Average | |
| 2004 C500 | — | Avoid | |
| 2005 C500 | — | Avoid |
What are the most common Kenworth C500 problems?
The most-reported Kenworth C500 problems are Trailer Hitches (1 reports) — out of 1 owner complaints NHTSA holds for the model. Here's how they break down:
Most-reported components — tap a category to read what owners actually experienced:
Trailer Hitches 1 Read
1999 kenworth conventional, unit 1 was exiting the emergency pull off. The trailer of unit 1 became disconnected and the trailer fell onto the pavement, causing damage. *bf trailer info: 1993 great dane box trailer. (ohio traffic crash report # 10-0917-90) updated 02/15/11 *bf
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.
Kenworth C500 specifications & dimensions
The 2005 Kenworth C500. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN. For the original factory build — MSRP, trim and standard equipment — rebuild the Kenworth C500 window sticker.
| Specs cache warming… |
Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.
Kenworth C500 cargo space, seating & interior room
How much the C500 holds — passengers and cargo. Seating, cargo and interior dimensions vary by trim and seat configuration — decode your VIN for the exact build.
Exact seating capacity, third-row availability, legroom and headroom decode from your VIN or vary by trim — the original factory equipment & options list shows what each trim included.
Passenger & cargo volume from EPA fueleconomy.gov (largest configuration). Seats, legroom and headroom from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
Kenworth C500 tire size, oil type & owner specs
The fitment owners look up most — tires, wheels, oil and batteries. Exact wheel and tire sizes decode from your VIN or the driver's door-jamb placard; the universal items are listed below.
Exact tire, wheel, oil grade, capacity and battery group are added per trim and model year — decode your VIN above for the factory fitment. Universal items shown as-is.
What MPG does the Kenworth C500 get?
MPG cache warming… reload in a moment.
What engines does the Kenworth C500 have? Power & range
Powertrain data warming… reload in a moment.
How much does a Kenworth C500 cost to own?
A Kenworth C500 holds its value well. A typical example keeps roughly 56% of its value after five years — losing about 44% to depreciation. Check what a used C500 is worth today or browse current used-market prices before you buy or sell. Fuel, maintenance and insurance add to the total cost to own.
| Age | Value retained | Est. resale value | Lost to depreciation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 84% | $25,200 | −$4,800 |
| Year 2 | 76% | $22,800 | −$7,200 |
| Year 3 | 68% | $20,400 | −$9,600 |
| Year 4 | 61% | $18,300 | −$11,700 |
| Year 5 | 56% | $16,800 | −$13,200 |
What goes into the five-year cost to own:
- Depreciation — the biggest cost: this C500 loses about 44% of its value over five years. See the full depreciation curve by age.
- Fuel — based on EPA economy at roughly 15,000 miles a year.
- Maintenance & repairs — routine service, tires and wear items as the C500 ages.
- Insurance — varies by driver, state and trim; get a quote for your exact figure.
Resale & depreciation are ForCar estimates from typical segment value-retention curves — not a live market quote. Fuel from EPA fueleconomy.gov at ~15k mi/yr.
Is the Kenworth C500 safe?
NHTSA crash-test ratings aren't published for the C500 yet — see the top-rated safest cars instead.
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How many miles does a Kenworth C500 last?
A well-maintained Kenworth C500 typically lasts 250,000–300,000+ miles. It's exceptionally durable — with routine maintenance many owners report 250k+ on the original powertrain. Its ForCar Reliability Score is 4.0/5.
Check your Kenworth C500’s VIN — history, recalls & specs
Title records, open recalls, build details and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.
Check this C500’s VIN free →All Kenworth C500 model years
A year-by-year snapshot of the Kenworth C500 — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.
| Year | Recalls | Best MPG | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2005 C500 | 5 recalls | — | — |
| 2004 C500 | 4 recalls | — | — |
| 2003 C500 | 3 recalls | — | — |
| 2002 C500 | 2 recalls | — | — |
| 2001 C500 | 4 recalls | — | — |
| 2000 C500 | 7 recalls | — | — |
| 1999 C500 | 7 recalls | — | — |
| 1998 C500 | 3 recalls | — | — |
| 1997 C500 | 3 recalls | — | — |
| 1996 C500 | 4 recalls | — | — |
| 1995 C500 | 1 recall | — | — |
| 1994 C500 | 1 recall | — | — |
| 1993 C500 | 1 recall | — | — |
| 1992 C500 | 1 recall | — | — |
| 1991 C500 | 3 recalls | — | — |
| 1990 C500 | 1 recall | — | — |
| 1989 C500 | 1 recall | — | — |
| 1988 C500 | 0 | — | — |
| 1987 C500 | 0 | — | — |
| 1986 C500 | 0 | — | — |
| 1985 C500 | 0 | — | — |
| 1984 C500 | 0 | — | — |
| 1983 C500 | 0 | — | — |
| 1982 C500 | 0 | — | — |
| 1981 C500 | 1 recall | — | — |
Recalls = NHTSA campaigns that year · MPG = best EPA combined · Safety = NHTSA overall stars (tested years).
Frequently asked questions
What are the worst years for the C500?
By owner-complaint volume, 1999, 2005, 2004 drew the most reports. 1981, 1982, 1983 have the cleanest records.
How many recalls does the C500 have?
52 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1981–2005. Always check open recalls by your VIN.
How many miles does a C500 last?
A well-maintained C500 typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the C500 reliable?
Our ForCar Reliability Score for the C500 is 4.0/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.
What's the Kenworth C500 warranty?
New Kenworth models carry a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic (bumper-to-bumper) warranty and a 5 years / 60,000 miles powertrain warranty. Coverage can vary by model year and market — confirm with a Kenworth dealer.
Where is the Kenworth C500 made?
The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your C500's VIN above to see exactly where it was built; Kenworth may build it at more than one plant depending on the year.
How much ground clearance does the C500 have?
Ground clearance varies by trim and drivetrain — AWD/4WD versions often sit higher. Decode your VIN or check the specific trim for the exact figure.