The Kenworth T600 spans 1985–2005 with 70 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 3.5/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 2005, 2003, 1997 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 1985, 1986, 1987. 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 T600 is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 1985 to 2005 across multiple generations.
How to read a Kenworth T600 VIN — every digit explained
Every Kenworth T600 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 T600.
- 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 T600, see the complete guide to reading a VIN.
How many recalls does the Kenworth T600 have?
The Kenworth T600 has 70 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1985–2005. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.
2005 Kenworth T600 recalls 8
Trailer Hitches
What's wrong. On certain trucks, the removable tow hitch ,when used to tow or lift a vehicle, can fail due to defective material in the tow hitch.
Risk. If the tow hitch assembly fails while a vehicle is being towed or lifted, it may cause an accident that could result in personal injury or death.
Fix. Dealers will replace the tow pin assembly free of charge. The recall began on september 4, 2007. Owners may contact kenworth at 425-828-5440 or peterbilt at 940-591-4201.
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.
Engine And Engine Cooling
What's wrong. On certain trucks equipped with caterpillar c11, c13 or c15 engines, the oil fill cap can become dislodged due to cap damage or improper installation and become lodged in the u-joint of the steering driveline and steering gear.
Risk. If the cap becomes dodged in this area, it may result in difficulty steering the vehicle or cause complete steering lock-up increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Paccar is working with caterpillar to repair these vehicles. Revised oil cap retention based on the engine model/configuration will be incorporated to prevent steering lock-up. The recall began during december 2007. Owners may contact caterpillar at 1-800-447-4986 or kenworth at 425-828-5440.
Steering
What's wrong. On certain trucks equipped with the bendix electronic stability control (esp) system, the system uses multiple sensors and an electronic control unit (ecu) to control vehicle under steer, over-steer, and rollover situations. The system relies on vehicle sensors to be functioning and aligned properly. The steering angle sensor has the potential to be misaligned with the steering column shaft, thereby providing incorrect information to the bendix ecu.
Risk. This condition could affect vehicle throttle control and braking, thereby leading to loss of vehicle steering control which could cause a crash without warning.
Fix. Because of the immediate and substantial risk, kenworth and peterbilt dealers will first deactivate the yaw control feature of the bendix esp system preventing inadvertent esp activation. When parts are available, the steering column will be replaced to insure proper alignment of the steering shaft sensor and the full esp system will be reactivated. The recall began on december 7, 2005. Parts to complete the remedy are estimated to be available in early 2006. Owners may contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440 or peterbilt at 1-940-591-4201.
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.
Suspension
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling 130 my 2004-2009 t2000, t800, t600, w900 and t660 kenworth trucks built with an ag400 rear suspension, long stroke brake chambers, and wide base tires (super singles). These vehicles may develop an increase in lateral and vertical axle movement. This movement may cause part or parts of the brake assembly (brake cam tube support, brake chamber bracket, brake chamber, brake spider) to develop fatigue cracks, possibly resulting in the failure of the part or parts within the brake assembly.
Risk. A failure may reduce vehicle brake performance, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will install the cam tube support brackets on all of the rear axle wheel ends. Inspect the rear axle brake assembly and replace it if cracked. The recall is expected to begin during november 2008. Owners may contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
Service Brakes, Air
What's wrong. Kenworth is recalling 3,423 my 2004-2009 t2000, t800,t600, w900 and t660 vehicles. Increased brake excitation in a certain vehicle configuration which includes bendix drum brakes, wide base low profile single tires, and an ag400 or ag460 rear suspension, due to its unique brake clocking and cam tube length, can cause fatigue and cracking to brake assembly components.
Risk. Cracking can cause a complete fracture of the cam tube, which could increase stopping distance and decrease parking brake hold capability.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the rear axle brakes assembly, replace cracked rear axle brakes assembly components where required, and install cam tube support brackets on all rear axle wheel ends free of charge. The recall is expected to begin or before july 25, 2009. Owner may contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
2004 Kenworth T600 recalls 10
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.
Suspension
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling 130 my 2004-2009 t2000, t800, t600, w900 and t660 kenworth trucks built with an ag400 rear suspension, long stroke brake chambers, and wide base tires (super singles). These vehicles may develop an increase in lateral and vertical axle movement. This movement may cause part or parts of the brake assembly (brake cam tube support, brake chamber bracket, brake chamber, brake spider) to develop fatigue cracks, possibly resulting in the failure of the part or parts within the brake assembly.
Risk. A failure may reduce vehicle brake performance, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will install the cam tube support brackets on all of the rear axle wheel ends. Inspect the rear axle brake assembly and replace it if cracked. The recall is expected to begin during november 2008. Owners may contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
Service Brakes, Air
What's wrong. Kenworth is recalling 3,423 my 2004-2009 t2000, t800,t600, w900 and t660 vehicles. Increased brake excitation in a certain vehicle configuration which includes bendix drum brakes, wide base low profile single tires, and an ag400 or ag460 rear suspension, due to its unique brake clocking and cam tube length, can cause fatigue and cracking to brake assembly components.
Risk. Cracking can cause a complete fracture of the cam tube, which could increase stopping distance and decrease parking brake hold capability.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the rear axle brakes assembly, replace cracked rear axle brakes assembly components where required, and install cam tube support brackets on all rear axle wheel ends free of charge. The recall is expected to begin or before july 25, 2009. Owner may contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
Equipment:other:labels
What's wrong. Certain trucks fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 120, 'tire selection and rims for motor vehicles other than passenger cars.' the tire pressure was omitted from the vehicle's certification label.
Risk. If the tire is operated in an under-inflated condition, the load carrying capacity of the vehicle may be compromised, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Owners will be provided with a corrected label. The recall began august 12, 2004. Owners should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
Electrical System:wiring:front Underhood
What's wrong. On certain trucks equipped with a combination of caterpillar c11/c13 engines and an optional leece neville brushless alternator, a chaffing point may exist between a heat shield on the engine and the wiring for the alternator.
Risk. This could lead to an electrical short or arc situation which could result in an engine fire.
Fix. Dealers will change the alternator to a brush-type alternator that is shorter in length and provide the necessary clearance to all surrounding components. The recall began august 31, 2004. Owners should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
Power Train:driveline:universal Joint
What's wrong. On certain trucks built with the optional dana spl driveline, the u-joint fasteners at the output yoke of the transmission were not properly tightened.
Risk. If the u-joints were to become loose, a portion of the driveline could become detached from the vehicle and fall out from under the vehicle, which could cause a crash.
Fix. Dealers will verify the torque of the u-joint fasteners. Parts showing excessive wear will be replaced. The recall began on november 12, 2004. Owners should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
Electrical System:wiring
What's wrong. Certain trucks equipped with eaton fuller ultrasonic transmissions fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 102, "transmission shift lever sequence, starter interlock and transmission braking effect." the cab transmission harness could have been incorrectly wired during production installation.
Risk. This could cause the neutral start feature of the transmission to disable allowing the vehicle to start in gear increasing the potential for a crash.
Fix. Dealers will repair the connections in the wiring harness if necessary. Owner notification began on may 7, 2004. Owners should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
Structure
What's wrong. On certain trucks, some of the huck bolts on the cab may not have been properly installed.
Risk. If the huck bolts are not properly installed, in an extreme loading condition (such as frontal and/or side impact or a vehicle rollover situation), the cab structure could be compromised and not provide adequate protection for the occupant increasing the risk of personal injury.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the huck bolts on the cab attaching structure of the left-hand door aperture, if necessary. The recall began on november 19, 2004. Owners should contact kenworth at 425-828-5440.
2003 Kenworth T600 recalls 5
Unknown Or Other
What's wrong. On certain heavy duty trucks equipped with vertical tail pipes, the frame access grabhandle is mounted too high.
Risk. This condition could cause a person to slip and/or fall and could lead to personal injury.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the grabhandle location and if determined to be mounted too high, the handle will be relocated to the proper height. Owner notification began july 29, 2003. Owners 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.
Electrical System:wiring:fuses And Circuit Breakers
What's wrong. On certain heavy duty trucks, the main cab wiring harness was incorrectly connected to the 50 amp circuit breaker instead of the 135 amp breaker.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the vehicles and the wiring will be corrected if necessary. Owner notification began september 16, 2003. Owners should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
Trailer Hitches:fifth Wheel Assembly
What's wrong. On certain trucks equipped with jost international jsk 37u series fifth wheels, a fatigue crack can develop in the bracket pin weld under certain loading conditions.
Risk. If left undetected or corrected it could lead to the separation of the fifth wheel top plate from its mounting structure, possibly resulting in a crash.
Fix. Dealers will replace the bracket pins and repair instructions free of charge. Peterbilt's owner notification began june 20, 2003. Kenworth's owner notification began june 12, 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 peterbilt at 940-591-4201 or kenworth 425-828-5440.
Electrical System:wiring
What's wrong. Certain trucks equipped with eaton fuller ultrasonic transmissions fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 102, "transmission shift lever sequence, starter interlock and transmission braking effect." the cab transmission harness could have been incorrectly wired during production installation.
Risk. This could cause the neutral start feature of the transmission to disable allowing the vehicle to start in gear increasing the potential for a crash.
Fix. Dealers will repair the connections in the wiring harness if necessary. Owner notification began on may 7, 2004. Owners should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
2002 Kenworth T600 recalls 5
Unknown Or Other
What's wrong. On certain heavy duty trucks equipped with vertical tail pipes, the frame access grabhandle is mounted too high.
Risk. This condition could cause a person to slip and/or fall and could lead to personal injury.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the grabhandle location and if determined to be mounted too high, the handle will be relocated to the proper height. Owner notification began july 29, 2003. Owners 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.
Electrical System:wiring:fuses And Circuit Breakers
What's wrong. On certain heavy duty trucks, the main cab wiring harness was incorrectly connected to the 50 amp circuit breaker instead of the 135 amp breaker.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the vehicles and the wiring will be corrected if necessary. Owner notification began september 16, 2003. Owners should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
Service Brakes, Air:controls:hand Control/valve
What's wrong. On certain vehicles equipped with bendix tc-7 trailer control hand-operated valve with push-to-connect fittings. The delivery port in the valve body may be partially blocked due to a problem during the molding process.
Risk. Such blockage may slow the delivery and exhaust of air to and from the trailer brakes when they are operated by this hand-operated trailer control valve.
Fix. Paccar will notify its customers and inspect and replace, if necessary, the hand valve free of charge. Owner notification began october 18, 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 940-591-4201.
Trailer Hitches:fifth Wheel Assembly
What's wrong. On certain trucks equipped with jost international jsk 37u series fifth wheels, a fatigue crack can develop in the bracket pin weld under certain loading conditions.
Risk. If left undetected or corrected it could lead to the separation of the fifth wheel top plate from its mounting structure, possibly resulting in a crash.
Fix. Dealers will replace the bracket pins and repair instructions free of charge. Peterbilt's owner notification began june 20, 2003. Kenworth's owner notification began june 12, 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 peterbilt at 940-591-4201 or kenworth 425-828-5440.
2001 Kenworth T600 recalls 7
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.
Unknown Or Other
What's wrong. On certain heavy duty trucks equipped with vertical tail pipes, the frame access grabhandle is mounted too high.
Risk. This condition could cause a person to slip and/or fall and could lead to personal injury.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the grabhandle location and if determined to be mounted too high, the handle will be relocated to the proper height. Owner notification began july 29, 2003. Owners should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
Suspension:front:hub
What's wrong. On certain trucks equipped with truck hub units manufactured by skf exclusively for use on arvinmeritor's ff98x series non-drive steer axles, the hub unit bearings can wear prematurely.
Risk. Seizure of the bearings can cause wheel separation or wheel end fire.
Fix. Dealers will replace all front axle hubs. Notification began july 16, 2003. The manufacturer has advised us that parts will not be available until september 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy with a reasonable time should contact peterbilt at 940-591-4201 or kenworth 425-828-5440.
Power Train:driveline:universal Joint
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks. The driveline u-joint fasteners at the output yoke of the transmission were improperly tightened.
Risk. Under-tightened fasteners can lead to the driveline becoming detached from the vehicle resulting in property damage or personal injury.
Fix. Dealers will tighten the driveline fasteners to the proper specification. Owner notification began november 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.
Trailer Hitches:fifth Wheel Assembly
What's wrong. On certain trucks equipped with jost international jsk 37u series fifth wheels, a fatigue crack can develop in the bracket pin weld under certain loading conditions.
Risk. If left undetected or corrected it could lead to the separation of the fifth wheel top plate from its mounting structure, possibly resulting in a crash.
Fix. Dealers will replace the bracket pins and repair instructions free of charge. Peterbilt's owner notification began june 20, 2003. Kenworth's owner notification began june 12, 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 peterbilt at 940-591-4201 or kenworth 425-828-5440.
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 T600 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.
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.
Power Train:automatic Transmission
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with eaton autoshift gen ii transmission assemblies. Due to a software problem in the transmission assemblies, the transmission will select the wrong gear.
Risk. If an inappropriate gear is selected without the driver's knowledge, the vehicle will react differently than expected, possibly resulting in injury or crash.
Fix. Dealers will replace the autoshift transmissions. Eaton performed the campaign for the kenworth portion. However peterbilt will be conducting their own campaign.
Suspension:front:hub
What's wrong. On certain trucks equipped with truck hub units manufactured by skf exclusively for use on arvinmeritor's ff98x series non-drive steer axles, the hub unit bearings can wear prematurely.
Risk. Seizure of the bearings can cause wheel separation or wheel end fire.
Fix. Dealers will replace all front axle hubs. Notification began july 16, 2003. The manufacturer has advised us that parts will not be available until september 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy with a reasonable time should contact peterbilt at 940-591-4201 or kenworth 425-828-5440.
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 T600 recalls 9
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.
Electrical System:ignition:module
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with caterpillar engines and eaton autoshift transmissions. The engines can stall because of software problems.
Risk. Increased steering effort can occur.
Fix. Dealers will update these engines with software changes. Caterpillar is conducting the owner notification and remedy of this recall.
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.
Power Train:driveline
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks. The installation of the aluminum steering driveline exceeds the u-joint angles specified by dana, the driveline manufacturer. By exceeding this specification, the u-joint could contact and cause a stress riser in the aluminum drive shaft. This contact could cause in a notch in the aluminum drivement, resulting in a stress riser in the shaft.
Risk. This notch could cause premature failure of the steering driveline, resulting in loss of vehicle control and/or vehicle crash without prior warning.
Fix. Dealers will replace the aluminum driveline with a steel version.
Suspension:front:hub
What's wrong. On certain trucks equipped with truck hub units manufactured by skf exclusively for use on arvinmeritor's ff98x series non-drive steer axles, the hub unit bearings can wear prematurely.
Risk. Seizure of the bearings can cause wheel separation or wheel end fire.
Fix. Dealers will replace all front axle hubs. Notification began july 16, 2003. The manufacturer has advised us that parts will not be available until september 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy with a reasonable time should contact peterbilt at 940-591-4201 or kenworth 425-828-5440.
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 T600 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.
Electrical System:ignition:module
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with caterpillar engines and eaton autoshift transmissions. The engines can stall because of software problems.
Risk. Increased steering effort can occur.
Fix. Dealers will update these engines with software changes. Caterpillar is conducting the owner notification and remedy of this recall.
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.
Suspension:front:hub
What's wrong. On certain trucks equipped with truck hub units manufactured by skf exclusively for use on arvinmeritor's ff98x series non-drive steer axles, the hub unit bearings can wear prematurely.
Risk. Seizure of the bearings can cause wheel separation or wheel end fire.
Fix. Dealers will replace all front axle hubs. Notification began july 16, 2003. The manufacturer has advised us that parts will not be available until september 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy with a reasonable time should contact peterbilt at 940-591-4201 or kenworth 425-828-5440.
1997 Kenworth T600 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.
Suspension:front:hub
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with design level 1, rockwell ff980 series front axle. The front axle hub flange can develop cracks due to high stress levels.
Risk. Cracks in a hub flange can result in a wheel separation.
Fix. Dealers will remove and replace the front hubs with an improved design level 2 hub.
Suspension:rear
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with kenworth airglide 200 rear suspension. Due to materials used in the sway bar arms and studs as well as the stud plating material, stress corrosion cracking and bending fatigue can occur in the rear suspension sway bar arms and studs causing the stud to fail prematurely.
Risk. This could cause a loss of steering control increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Fix. Dealers will replace the arm assembly manufactured from a different material. New studs will be installed with different threads and different finish.
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 T600 recalls 5
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.
Suspension:front:hub
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with design level 1, rockwell ff980 series front axle. The front axle hub flange can develop cracks due to high stress levels.
Risk. Cracks in a hub flange can result in a wheel separation.
Fix. Dealers will remove and replace the front hubs with an improved design level 2 hub.
Suspension:rear
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with kenworth airglide 200 rear suspension. Due to materials used in the sway bar arms and studs as well as the stud plating material, stress corrosion cracking and bending fatigue can occur in the rear suspension sway bar arms and studs causing the stud to fail prematurely.
Risk. This could cause a loss of steering control increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Fix. Dealers will replace the arm assembly manufactured from a different material. New studs will be installed with different threads and different finish.
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.
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 T600 recalls 1
Suspension:rear
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with kenworth airglide 200 rear suspension. Due to materials used in the sway bar arms and studs as well as the stud plating material, stress corrosion cracking and bending fatigue can occur in the rear suspension sway bar arms and studs causing the stud to fail prematurely.
Risk. This could cause a loss of steering control increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Fix. Dealers will replace the arm assembly manufactured from a different material. New studs will be installed with different threads and different finish.
1991 Kenworth T600 recalls 3
Engine And Engine Cooling:cooling System:fan
What's wrong. The engine fan may experience a resonant frequency causing premature fan failure, and separation from the engine.
Risk. Engine fan separation can cause death or injury to anyperson in the path of the fan.
Fix. Replace engine fan with fan from another manufacturer.
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.
Service Brakes, Air
What's wrong. Air brake system was modified by adding a longer air line between the abs solenoid and the transfer tee to simplify manufacturing. This modification caused the trucks to be in non-compliance with fmvss 121, brake timing test.
Risk. The mistimed brake and abs system may cause the truck tofail the stopping distance requirement of the fmvss, which may lead to anaccident.
Fix. Remove the extra length of air line and install the transfer tee at the abs solenoid.
1990 Kenworth T600 recalls 2
Engine And Engine Cooling:cooling System:fan
What's wrong. The engine fan may experience a resonant frequency causing premature fan failure, and separation from the engine.
Risk. Engine fan separation can cause death or injury to anyperson in the path of the fan.
Fix. Replace engine fan with fan from another manufacturer.
Service Brakes, Air
What's wrong. Air brake system was modified by adding a longer air line between the abs solenoid and the transfer tee to simplify manufacturing. This modification caused the trucks to be in non-compliance with fmvss 121, brake timing test.
Risk. The mistimed brake and abs system may cause the truck tofail the stopping distance requirement of the fmvss, which may lead to anaccident.
Fix. Remove the extra length of air line and install the transfer tee at the abs solenoid.
Best and worst years for the Kenworth T600
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 21 tracked years, the worst years are 2005, 2003, 1997 and the best (fewest complaints) are 1985, 1986, 1987.
ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.
| Year | Owner complaints | Top issue | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1985 T600 | — | Best | |
| 1986 T600 | — | Best | |
| 1987 T600 | — | Best | |
| 1988 T600 | — | Average | |
| 1989 T600 | — | Average | |
| 1990 T600 | Structure | Average | |
| 1991 T600 | — | Average | |
| 1992 T600 | — | Average | |
| 1993 T600 | — | Average | |
| 1994 T600 | — | Average | |
| 1995 T600 | — | Average | |
| 1996 T600 | — | Average | |
| 1997 T600 | Steering | Avoid | |
| 1998 T600 | — | Average | |
| 1999 T600 | Power Train | Average | |
| 2000 T600 | — | Average | |
| 2001 T600 | — | Average | |
| 2002 T600 | Tires | Average | |
| 2003 T600 | Air Bags | Avoid | |
| 2004 T600 | — | Average | |
| 2005 T600 | Service Brakes | Avoid |
What are the most common Kenworth T600 problems?
The most-reported Kenworth T600 problems are Air (4 reports), Tires (1 reports) and Air Bags (1 reports) — out of 11 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:
Service Brakes 4 Read
09v239000 recall repair was made to my 2005 kenworth t600, but the welding that was performed to connect the support brackets to the axle have fully cracked and seperated,mechanics at kenworth dealerships are not certified welders,the chicken !@#$%'. Welding does not penetrate the axle metal..... *tr
2005 kenworth t600 last 8 of vin 099664 air brake chamber mounting bracket failed/cracked in half,brake chamber hanging by hoses only, driver side rear axle. *tr
Tl*- the contact owns a 2005 kenworth t600. The contact stated that he experiences increase stopping distances and decreased parking brake hold capability. He then received recall notice # 09v239000 (service brakes, air). However he has already paid an expense of $2500.00 to replace various braking components, and yet the failures have not been properly remedied. The failure mileage was 360,000. The current mileage was 690,000.
Failure of jake brakes on 2003 kenworth t-600. The jake brakes on my kenworth failed to come on. I directed it to the kenworth dealership in carlisle, pa. Who after many hours of diagnosising determined that the jake brakes had failed because a wire had come loose at the back of the am/fm radio!!!! The brakes can fail because of a loose wire @ the am/fm radio. God help the poor soul in front of the truck coming down a 6% grade relying on his jakes to slow him down which fail because of a loose wire behind the radio. Nut!*ak
Air 4 Read
09v239000 recall repair was made to my 2005 kenworth t600, but the welding that was performed to connect the support brackets to the axle have fully cracked and seperated,mechanics at kenworth dealerships are not certified welders,the chicken !@#$%'. Welding does not penetrate the axle metal..... *tr
2005 kenworth t600 last 8 of vin 099664 air brake chamber mounting bracket failed/cracked in half,brake chamber hanging by hoses only, driver side rear axle. *tr
Tl*- the contact owns a 2005 kenworth t600. The contact stated that he experiences increase stopping distances and decreased parking brake hold capability. He then received recall notice # 09v239000 (service brakes, air). However he has already paid an expense of $2500.00 to replace various braking components, and yet the failures have not been properly remedied. The failure mileage was 360,000. The current mileage was 690,000.
Failure of jake brakes on 2003 kenworth t-600. The jake brakes on my kenworth failed to come on. I directed it to the kenworth dealership in carlisle, pa. Who after many hours of diagnosising determined that the jake brakes had failed because a wire had come loose at the back of the am/fm radio!!!! The brakes can fail because of a loose wire @ the am/fm radio. God help the poor soul in front of the truck coming down a 6% grade relying on his jakes to slow him down which fail because of a loose wire behind the radio. Nut!*ak
Structure 2 Read
09v239000 recall repair was made to my 2005 kenworth t600, but the welding that was performed to connect the support brackets to the axle have fully cracked and seperated,mechanics at kenworth dealerships are not certified welders,the chicken !@#$%'. Welding does not penetrate the axle metal..... *tr
Rear axle trunion mounts stress crack. Could cause separation of rear axles at speed and cause severe accident.
Engine And Engine Cooling 1 Read
Tl*the contact owns a 2005 kenworth t600. While driving 45 mph, the vehicle overheated. The contact was able to drive the vehicle approximately 15 to 20 minutes later. The failure usually occurs when driving uphill. The dealer repaired the vehicle 6 or 7 times. The radiator, fan, and sensors were replaced. The contact had to pay the labor fees for each repair. The temperature warning lights illuminated. The current cost to repair the vehicle is $20,000. The dealer stated that both the head gasket and engine have failed. The vehicle was towed to the dealer. The contact can provide an invoice. The # of cylinders, powertrain, and fuel system were unknown. The current mileage is 530,000 and failure mileage was 121,000.
Air Bags 1 Read
Tl*the contact owns a 2003 kenworth t600. While driving 60mph in light rain, snow and heavy wind weather conditions. The strong wind pushed the vehicle over onto the driver side, begin sliding down a hill and crashed into a ditch. The contacts head hit the steering wheels and was cut by broken glass. The contact was forced to kick the passenger front window out to escape from vehicle. A police report was filed and the contact was taken to the hospital in an ambulance. During the crash, none of the air bags deployed. The contact is aware of the safety risk when air bags do not deploy. The current mileage was 76,241 and the failure mileage was 76,241.
Equipment 1 Read
Failure of jake brakes on 2003 kenworth t-600. The jake brakes on my kenworth failed to come on. I directed it to the kenworth dealership in carlisle, pa. Who after many hours of diagnosising determined that the jake brakes had failed because a wire had come loose at the back of the am/fm radio!!!! The brakes can fail because of a loose wire @ the am/fm radio. God help the poor soul in front of the truck coming down a 6% grade relying on his jakes to slow him down which fail because of a loose wire behind the radio. Nut!*ak
Tires 1 Read
2002 kenworth t600, westbound when unit 1 tire blew out which struck unit 2. *bf (ohio traffic crash report # 10-0468-91)*jb
Power Train 1 Read
During normal operation of vehicle, there is a noise being emitted from rear due to gears in rear have become stripped. Manufacturer has informed consumer that this defect was due to "shock load" (driver abuse). *ak *slc
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.
Kenworth T600 specifications & dimensions
The 2005 Kenworth T600. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN. For the original factory build — MSRP, trim and standard equipment — rebuild the Kenworth T600 window sticker.
| Specs cache warming… |
Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.
Kenworth T600 cargo space, seating & interior room
How much the T600 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 T600 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 T600 get?
MPG cache warming… reload in a moment.
What engines does the Kenworth T600 have? Power & range
Powertrain data warming… reload in a moment.
How much does a Kenworth T600 cost to own?
A Kenworth T600 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 T600 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 T600 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 T600 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 T600 safe?
NHTSA crash-test ratings aren't published for the T600 yet — see the top-rated safest cars instead.
Tired of ads? Go Pro.
- Zero ads — clean, fast pages
- Exact mileage-adjusted car values
- Full research reports + PDF
- Market charts & price-drop alerts
- …and much more
How many miles does a Kenworth T600 last?
A well-maintained Kenworth T600 typically lasts 200,000–250,000 miles. With regular oil, transmission and timing service, most examples comfortably pass the 200,000-mile mark. Its ForCar Reliability Score is 3.5/5.
Check your Kenworth T600’s VIN — history, recalls & specs
Title records, open recalls, build details and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.
Check this T600’s VIN free →All Kenworth T600 model years
A year-by-year snapshot of the Kenworth T600 — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.
| Year | Recalls | Best MPG | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2005 T600 | 8 recalls | — | — |
| 2004 T600 | 10 recalls | — | — |
| 2003 T600 | 5 recalls | — | — |
| 2002 T600 | 5 recalls | — | — |
| 2001 T600 | 7 recalls | — | — |
| 2000 T600 | 7 recalls | — | — |
| 1999 T600 | 9 recalls | — | — |
| 1998 T600 | 4 recalls | — | — |
| 1997 T600 | 4 recalls | — | — |
| 1996 T600 | 5 recalls | — | — |
| 1995 T600 | 1 recall | — | — |
| 1994 T600 | 0 | — | — |
| 1993 T600 | 0 | — | — |
| 1992 T600 | 0 | — | — |
| 1991 T600 | 3 recalls | — | — |
| 1990 T600 | 2 recalls | — | — |
| 1989 T600 | 0 | — | — |
| 1988 T600 | 0 | — | — |
| 1987 T600 | 0 | — | — |
| 1986 T600 | 0 | — | — |
| 1985 T600 | 0 | — | — |
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 T600?
By owner-complaint volume, 2005, 2003, 1997 drew the most reports. 1985, 1986, 1987 have the cleanest records.
How many recalls does the T600 have?
70 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1985–2005. Always check open recalls by your VIN.
How many miles does a T600 last?
A well-maintained T600 typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the T600 reliable?
Our ForCar Reliability Score for the T600 is 3.5/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.
What's the Kenworth T600 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 T600 made?
The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your T600'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 T600 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.