The Kenworth W900 spans 1981–2005 with 82 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 3.5/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 2000, 1999, 1998 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 1981, 1982, 1984. 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 W900 is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 1981 to 2005 across multiple generations.
Decode or check a Kenworth W900 by VIN
Enter a 17-digit VIN to decode this Kenworth W900 — trim, engine, plant and full specs — and instantly pull its open recalls, safety ratings and original window sticker.
How to read a Kenworth W900 VIN — every digit explained
Every Kenworth W900 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. 4T1 = Toyota, built in the USA.
- VDS (4–8) — model line, body style, engine & restraint system.
- Check digit (9) — a math check that proves the VIN is genuine.
- Model year (10) — the year it was built. H = 2017.
- Plant (11) — which factory assembled this W900.
- Serial (12–17) — the unique sequential production number.
Model-year code (10th digit)
The 10th character is the model year. It cycles through letters and numbers, skipping I, O, Q, U, Z and 0 to avoid confusion:
Where to find your W900 VIN
- Dashboard — driver's side, visible through the windshield from outside.
- Driver's door jamb — on the manufacturer sticker when you open the door.
- Paperwork — vehicle registration, title and insurance card.
- Engine bay & frame — stamped on the firewall or chassis on many models.
How many recalls does the Kenworth W900 have?
The Kenworth W900 has 82 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1981–2005. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.
2005 Kenworth W900 recalls 9
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.
Engine And Engine Cooling
What's wrong. On certain trucks equipped with webasto heaters, the burner tubes are made of material that does not meet specifications and could fail prematurely.
Risk. Should the burner tube fail, the coolant heater could overheat, possibly resulting in a fire.
Fix. Dealers will replace the suspected defective parts free of charge. The recall began on april 4, 2004. Owners may contact 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.
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.
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:disc
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling 140 my 2005, 2007-2009 t800, w900, and t660 trucks. The caliper mounting fasteners attaching the air disc brake caliper assembly to the torque plate may have received insufficient torque during the installation process. The insufficient torque may allow the air disc brake caliper assembly to become loose and possibly separate from the vehicle.
Risk. This could result in reduced braking capacity and also a road debris hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect air disc brake caliper assemblies and replace the caliper mounting fasteners and torque properly. This service will be performed free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule. Owners may contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440.
2004 Kenworth W900 recalls 12
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.
Engine And Engine Cooling
What's wrong. On certain trucks equipped with webasto heaters, the burner tubes are made of material that does not meet specifications and could fail prematurely.
Risk. Should the burner tube fail, the coolant heater could overheat, possibly resulting in a fire.
Fix. Dealers will replace the suspected defective parts free of charge. The recall began on april 4, 2004. Owners may contact kenworth at 425-828-5440 or peterbilt at 940-591-4201.
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.
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.
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 W900 recalls 6
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.
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.
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.
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 W900 recalls 4
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.
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.
2001 Kenworth W900 recalls 9
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.
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: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: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.
Equipment:other:labels
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with meritor fg941 steer axles. The gross axle weight rating (gawr) was determined incorrectly and over-stated on the vehicle certification label. With the incorrect gawr listed, these labels do not meet the certification requirements of part 567, "requirements for manufacturers of motor vehicles." vehicles will be remedied either by assigning the proper weight rating or, if possible, by changing the necessary components to meet the currently assigned weight rating.
Risk. These vehicles would not be in compliance with federal regulations.
Fix. Vehicles will be remedied either by assigning the proper weight rating or, if possible, by changing the necessary components to meet the currently assigned weight rating. Owner notification began june 22, 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.
Suspension:rear
What's wrong. On certain heavy duty trucks equipped with replacement dana spicer tandem drive axle models ds463 and ds521, installed on vehicles from may 1, 2001 through february 1, 2002, an undersized attachment weld may fracture without warning.
Risk. The loss of this attachment to the vehicle chassis can adversely affect vehicle handling or driver control.
Fix. Dana is conducting the owner notification and remedy for this campaign. The dealers will remove the suspect bracket, inspect the axle housing, and reweld the bracket to the axle housing. 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 dana at 616-567-1088 or kenworth at 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 W900 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.
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.
Equipment:other:labels
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with meritor fg941 steer axles. The gross axle weight rating (gawr) was determined incorrectly and over-stated on the vehicle certification label. With the incorrect gawr listed, these labels do not meet the certification requirements of part 567, "requirements for manufacturers of motor vehicles." vehicles will be remedied either by assigning the proper weight rating or, if possible, by changing the necessary components to meet the currently assigned weight rating.
Risk. These vehicles would not be in compliance with federal regulations.
Fix. Vehicles will be remedied either by assigning the proper weight rating or, if possible, by changing the necessary components to meet the currently assigned weight rating. Owner notification began june 22, 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.
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.
Suspension:rear
What's wrong. On certain heavy duty trucks equipped with replacement dana spicer tandem drive axle models ds463 and ds521, installed on vehicles from may 1, 2001 through february 1, 2002, an undersized attachment weld may fracture without warning.
Risk. The loss of this attachment to the vehicle chassis can adversely affect vehicle handling or driver control.
Fix. Dana is conducting the owner notification and remedy for this campaign. The dealers will remove the suspect bracket, inspect the axle housing, and reweld the bracket to the axle housing. 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 dana at 616-567-1088 or kenworth at 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.
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 W900 recalls 10
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.
Equipment:other:labels
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with meritor fg941 steer axles. The gross axle weight rating (gawr) was determined incorrectly and over-stated on the vehicle certification label. With the incorrect gawr listed, these labels do not meet the certification requirements of part 567, "requirements for manufacturers of motor vehicles." vehicles will be remedied either by assigning the proper weight rating or, if possible, by changing the necessary components to meet the currently assigned weight rating.
Risk. These vehicles would not be in compliance with federal regulations.
Fix. Vehicles will be remedied either by assigning the proper weight rating or, if possible, by changing the necessary components to meet the currently assigned weight rating. Owner notification began june 22, 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.
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.
Suspension:rear
What's wrong. On certain heavy duty trucks equipped with replacement dana spicer tandem drive axle models ds463 and ds521, installed on vehicles from may 1, 2001 through february 1, 2002, an undersized attachment weld may fracture without warning.
Risk. The loss of this attachment to the vehicle chassis can adversely affect vehicle handling or driver control.
Fix. Dana is conducting the owner notification and remedy for this campaign. The dealers will remove the suspect bracket, inspect the axle housing, and reweld the bracket to the axle housing. 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 dana at 616-567-1088 or kenworth at 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.
1998 Kenworth W900 recalls 6
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.
Equipment:other:labels
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with meritor fg941 steer axles. The gross axle weight rating (gawr) was determined incorrectly and over-stated on the vehicle certification label. With the incorrect gawr listed, these labels do not meet the certification requirements of part 567, "requirements for manufacturers of motor vehicles." vehicles will be remedied either by assigning the proper weight rating or, if possible, by changing the necessary components to meet the currently assigned weight rating.
Risk. These vehicles would not be in compliance with federal regulations.
Fix. Vehicles will be remedied either by assigning the proper weight rating or, if possible, by changing the necessary components to meet the currently assigned weight rating. Owner notification began june 22, 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.
Suspension:rear
What's wrong. On certain heavy duty trucks equipped with replacement dana spicer tandem drive axle models ds463 and ds521, installed on vehicles from may 1, 2001 through february 1, 2002, an undersized attachment weld may fracture without warning.
Risk. The loss of this attachment to the vehicle chassis can adversely affect vehicle handling or driver control.
Fix. Dana is conducting the owner notification and remedy for this campaign. The dealers will remove the suspect bracket, inspect the axle housing, and reweld the bracket to the axle housing. 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 dana at 616-567-1088 or kenworth at 425-828-5440.
1997 Kenworth W900 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.
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.
Equipment:other:labels
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with meritor fg941 steer axles. The gross axle weight rating (gawr) was determined incorrectly and over-stated on the vehicle certification label. With the incorrect gawr listed, these labels do not meet the certification requirements of part 567, "requirements for manufacturers of motor vehicles." vehicles will be remedied either by assigning the proper weight rating or, if possible, by changing the necessary components to meet the currently assigned weight rating.
Risk. These vehicles would not be in compliance with federal regulations.
Fix. Vehicles will be remedied either by assigning the proper weight rating or, if possible, by changing the necessary components to meet the currently assigned weight rating. Owner notification began june 22, 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 W900 recalls 6
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.
Equipment:other:labels
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with meritor fg941 steer axles. The gross axle weight rating (gawr) was determined incorrectly and over-stated on the vehicle certification label. With the incorrect gawr listed, these labels do not meet the certification requirements of part 567, "requirements for manufacturers of motor vehicles." vehicles will be remedied either by assigning the proper weight rating or, if possible, by changing the necessary components to meet the currently assigned weight rating.
Risk. These vehicles would not be in compliance with federal regulations.
Fix. Vehicles will be remedied either by assigning the proper weight rating or, if possible, by changing the necessary components to meet the currently assigned weight rating. Owner notification began june 22, 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 W900 recalls 2
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.
Equipment:other:labels
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with meritor fg941 steer axles. The gross axle weight rating (gawr) was determined incorrectly and over-stated on the vehicle certification label. With the incorrect gawr listed, these labels do not meet the certification requirements of part 567, "requirements for manufacturers of motor vehicles." vehicles will be remedied either by assigning the proper weight rating or, if possible, by changing the necessary components to meet the currently assigned weight rating.
Risk. These vehicles would not be in compliance with federal regulations.
Fix. Vehicles will be remedied either by assigning the proper weight rating or, if possible, by changing the necessary components to meet the currently assigned weight rating. Owner notification began june 22, 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.
1994 Kenworth W900 recalls 1
Equipment:other:labels
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks equipped with meritor fg941 steer axles. The gross axle weight rating (gawr) was determined incorrectly and over-stated on the vehicle certification label. With the incorrect gawr listed, these labels do not meet the certification requirements of part 567, "requirements for manufacturers of motor vehicles." vehicles will be remedied either by assigning the proper weight rating or, if possible, by changing the necessary components to meet the currently assigned weight rating.
Risk. These vehicles would not be in compliance with federal regulations.
Fix. Vehicles will be remedied either by assigning the proper weight rating or, if possible, by changing the necessary components to meet the currently assigned weight rating. Owner notification began june 22, 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.
1991 Kenworth W900 recalls 1
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.
1983 Kenworth W900 recalls 1
Equipment:appliance:air Conditioner
What's wrong. Air conditioning and heating duct hoses could chafe and expose the wire reinforcement. The exposed wire may come in contact with one of the electrical connectors and short out.
Fix. Dealer will replace both the air conditioning and heating hoses at no cost to owner.
1982 Kenworth W900 recalls 1
Equipment:appliance:air Conditioner
What's wrong. Air conditioning and heating duct hoses could chafe and expose the wire reinforcement. The exposed wire may come in contact with one of the electrical connectors and short out.
Fix. Dealer will replace both the air conditioning and heating hoses at no cost to owner.
Best and worst years for the Kenworth W900
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 25 tracked years, the worst years are 2000, 1999, 1998 and the best (fewest complaints) are 1981, 1982, 1984.
ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.
| Year | Owner complaints | Top issue | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1981 W900 | 0 | — | Best |
| 1982 W900 | 0 | — | Best |
| 1983 W900 | 1 | Visibility | Average |
| 1984 W900 | 0 | — | Best |
| 1985 W900 | 0 | — | Average |
| 1986 W900 | 0 | — | Average |
| 1987 W900 | 0 | — | Average |
| 1988 W900 | 0 | — | Average |
| 1989 W900 | 0 | — | Average |
| 1990 W900 | 0 | — | Average |
| 1991 W900 | 0 | — | Average |
| 1992 W900 | 0 | — | Average |
| 1993 W900 | 0 | — | Average |
| 1994 W900 | 1 | Steering | Average |
| 1995 W900 | 1 | Structure | Average |
| 1996 W900 | 0 | — | Average |
| 1997 W900 | 1 | Tires | Average |
| 1998 W900 | 3 | Structure | Avoid |
| 1999 W900 | 4 | Service Brakes | Avoid |
| 2000 W900 | 7 | Suspension | Avoid |
| 2001 W900 | 1 | Fuel System | Average |
| 2002 W900 | 1 | Suspension | Average |
| 2003 W900 | 1 | Exterior Lighting | Average |
| 2004 W900 | 2 | Tires | Average |
| 2005 W900 | 2 | Fuel System | Average |
What are the most common Kenworth W900 problems?
The most-reported Kenworth W900 problems are Air (3 reports), Tires (3 reports) and Diesel (1 reports) — out of 25 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:
Suspension 5 Read
Consumer noticed at home. The front chassis was broke he could kill many people. Dealer has been notified. Please provide further information. Ts
Tl*the contact owns a 2000 kenworth w900. The contact stated that the frame rail failed on three occasions. The dealer replaced them each time. The frame rail cracked and cut the power steering hose. The vehicle was parked when the contact noticed an oil leak. The current mileage is 211,000 and failure mileage was 108,000.
Kenworth has a reputation of putting a custumer off untill warranty is out. All of these problems where to be addressed. And there are more. Hard to explain in short words. I do have documentation in the form of maint. Files with descriptive accounts of all problems , none of which have been accuratly repaired. I'v been into various shops concerning rr suspension, ride height prb. Has always been the issue. This effects every asspect of driveability, at first was thougth to be allignment but then started to notice similarities between the two when control valves started leaking down, after 15 or so trips to shop , i began to learn all i could about it. And after 50 or so times adjusting myself have found no real sollution. This has been a problem ever since the truck was new and is on the top of my list because not only does this creat a mechanical falure nightmare but is directly linked to certain saftey issues because trk is not very controlable. And have had several accidents due to vehicle handling and , i could talk in great lenths aboutit . Also the other items are very similar when it comes to safe opporation. Please contact me for further explanations and documentation. *ak
Consumer received recall 01v051000. She made an appointment with dealership regarding this recall, and dealership informed her they had no information regarding recall. Please provide any additional information/attachments.*ak
The truck has a vibration, which shakes bolts loose and the sleeper doors leaks. *et
Structure 5 Read
Kenworth has a reputation of putting a custumer off untill warranty is out. All of these problems where to be addressed. And there are more. Hard to explain in short words. I do have documentation in the form of maint. Files with descriptive accounts of all problems , none of which have been accuratly repaired. I'v been into various shops concerning rr suspension, ride height prb. Has always been the issue. This effects every asspect of driveability, at first was thougth to be allignment but then started to notice similarities between the two when control valves started leaking down, after 15 or so trips to shop , i began to learn all i could about it. And after 50 or so times adjusting myself have found no real sollution. This has been a problem ever since the truck was new and is on the top of my list because not only does this creat a mechanical falure nightmare but is directly linked to certain saftey issues because trk is not very controlable. And have had several accidents due to vehicle handling and , i could talk in great lenths aboutit . Also the other items are very similar when it comes to safe opporation. Please contact me for further explanations and documentation. *ak
Frame rail under hood flexes too much. When driving vehicle hood comes up. When driving down the road vehicle feels as though its going turn over when changing lanes. Contacted dealer, and dealer was not doing anything about problem.*ak consumer stated that new hood cracked at the same place and is now flexing more, also stress cracks in right windshield, consumer states concern with motor mounts. *tt
Reference voq#10259426. I filed a complaint in february 2009 for a frame rail that cracked on my 1998 kenworth w900. I spent $11,470 to have the rail replaced at an authorized kenworth dealer. I purchased this truck new, with no extras or add-ons since owning the truck. All servicing has been done at authorized kenworth repair facilities and i have kept up with all dot/cvsa inspections; this truck has been well maintained. In december 2010, i experienced another frame rail crack in approximately the same location as the first, behind the rear shackle of the front spring. This time the engine shifted and forced the fan into the radiator. The truck was taken to a local frame shop where the rail was replaced again. The tech there said he had just done another rail on a peterbuilt of the same vintage and felt this should not have happened so quickly on my truck, plus being a safety issue as well. I believe this could be an issue with other kenworth/peterbuilt tractors. Updated 03/09/12 *bf *tr
Tl*the contact owns a 1998 kenworth w900. While driving at an unknown speed, the contact noticed that the hood was knocking on the main cab and was not aligned properly. The vehicle was driven to a local repair shop and the mechanic stated that the chassis was cracked and defective. The manufacturer stated that they were not liable for the repairs. The vehicle was repaired. The current and failure mileages were 158,117. Updated 3/16/09 *cn updated 03/19/09. *jb updated 05/03/12. *jb
'95 kenworth w900l - frame "broke" just behind spring hanger on drivers side - had it repaired @ inland- kenworth phoenix, az. This could have broken all the way through and caused catastrophic accident to all concerned - no driver control period. *jb
Fuel System 3 Read
Fuel tanks moving which in one case has caused to fuel line to leak. Problem has occurred in several vehicles of the same year and model. *tr
Consumer stated the fuel tank bracket is not strong enough to keep tank from twisting, the straps apparently are too big and loosen from wear, causing fuel tank to twist and leak to fuel, dealer and manufacturer were notified.*ak *yh
While driving the fuel line chafed a hole, causing fuel leakage. A recall was ordered on make model and year. This particular truck was not included under recall 98v-129000. The dealer has been notified. *ak
Tires 3 Read
2004 kenworth w9, was entering onto the ohio turnpike when its right rear trailer tire caught on fire *bf the driver was able to put the fire out, using a fire extinguisher. (ohio traffic crash report # 10-0690-91). *jb updated 01/14/11 *bf
Tires are wearing out fast, consumer has put three sets of tires on vehicle within the last year.*ak
During the last two years i have had all 4 tires on this trailer blow out. Only the original tires blew out -- they did not go flat they blew apart -- goodyear st225/75r15 load range c, original tires that came with the 5th wheel trailer -- the trailer was not over the gross vehicle weight rating. Have you had any other complains regarding this tire. Thanks( dot number: tire size: st225/75r1 )
Electrical System 3 Read
This had happened to my parents. My dad drives a kenworth t2000 it is a brand new 2004. My dad was parking his truck for the night in waco, tx when he had smelt something burning. He opened the hood of the truck and there was a fire between the engine and the firewall. They believe the fire started with a wire on the alternator. Our concern is the kenworth t2000 does not have a door on the sleeper birth. We believe that all semi trucks need one. If my parents had been sleeping there would have been no way for them to escape the truck if the fire had got big enough. I have wrote to other people but no one seems to care about it which shows me that no one gives a [xxx] thing, but i bet if they had died in that truck everyone would be complaining that no one had said a thing about it. I am begging you something needs to be done to make doors in the sleeper mandatory on all semi trucks with sleeper births.*ak information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6). *tr
Consumer states that he is having electrical problems with his big rig. He states that he can be driving down the road and the lights cut off, then later on they come back on. He states that he has had this truck in the shop 60 plus times, and no one can find out what the problem is. He states he has had the motor rebuilt twice, replaced the heads, replace gasket etc at lease twice, and no one can find the problem.
While driving the fuel line chafed a hole, causing fuel leakage. A recall was ordered on make model and year. This particular truck was not included under recall 98v-129000. The dealer has been notified. *ak
Service Brakes 3 Read
While driving the left rear tandem brake locked up and caught fire (ohio traffic crash report). Nlm
Kenworth has a reputation of putting a custumer off untill warranty is out. All of these problems where to be addressed. And there are more. Hard to explain in short words. I do have documentation in the form of maint. Files with descriptive accounts of all problems , none of which have been accuratly repaired. I'v been into various shops concerning rr suspension, ride height prb. Has always been the issue. This effects every asspect of driveability, at first was thougth to be allignment but then started to notice similarities between the two when control valves started leaking down, after 15 or so trips to shop , i began to learn all i could about it. And after 50 or so times adjusting myself have found no real sollution. This has been a problem ever since the truck was new and is on the top of my list because not only does this creat a mechanical falure nightmare but is directly linked to certain saftey issues because trk is not very controlable. And have had several accidents due to vehicle handling and , i could talk in great lenths aboutit . Also the other items are very similar when it comes to safe opporation. Please contact me for further explanations and documentation. *ak
Air 3 Read
While driving the left rear tandem brake locked up and caught fire (ohio traffic crash report). Nlm
Kenworth has a reputation of putting a custumer off untill warranty is out. All of these problems where to be addressed. And there are more. Hard to explain in short words. I do have documentation in the form of maint. Files with descriptive accounts of all problems , none of which have been accuratly repaired. I'v been into various shops concerning rr suspension, ride height prb. Has always been the issue. This effects every asspect of driveability, at first was thougth to be allignment but then started to notice similarities between the two when control valves started leaking down, after 15 or so trips to shop , i began to learn all i could about it. And after 50 or so times adjusting myself have found no real sollution. This has been a problem ever since the truck was new and is on the top of my list because not only does this creat a mechanical falure nightmare but is directly linked to certain saftey issues because trk is not very controlable. And have had several accidents due to vehicle handling and , i could talk in great lenths aboutit . Also the other items are very similar when it comes to safe opporation. Please contact me for further explanations and documentation. *ak
Gasoline 2 Read
Consumer stated the fuel tank bracket is not strong enough to keep tank from twisting, the straps apparently are too big and loosen from wear, causing fuel tank to twist and leak to fuel, dealer and manufacturer were notified.*ak *yh
While driving the fuel line chafed a hole, causing fuel leakage. A recall was ordered on make model and year. This particular truck was not included under recall 98v-129000. The dealer has been notified. *ak
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.
Kenworth W900 specifications & dimensions
The 2005 Kenworth W900. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN.
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Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.
Kenworth W900 cargo space, seating & interior room
How much the W900 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.
Passenger & cargo volume from EPA fueleconomy.gov (largest configuration). Seats, legroom and headroom from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
Kenworth W900 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 W900 get?
MPG cache warming… reload in a moment.
What engines does the Kenworth W900 have? Power & range
Powertrain data warming… reload in a moment.
How much does a Kenworth W900 cost to own?
A Kenworth W900 holds its value well. A typical example keeps roughly 56% of its value after five years — losing about 44% to depreciation. Fuel, maintenance and insurance add to the total cost to own.
| Age | Value retained | Est. resale value | Lost to depreciation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 84% | — | — |
| Year 2 | 76% | — | — |
| Year 3 | 68% | — | — |
| Year 4 | 61% | — | — |
| Year 5 | 56% | — | — |
What goes into the five-year cost to own:
- Depreciation — the biggest cost: this W900 loses about 44% of its value over five years.
- Fuel — based on EPA economy at roughly 15,000 miles a year.
- Maintenance & repairs — routine service, tires and wear items as the W900 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 W900 safe?
NHTSA crash-test ratings aren't published for the W900 yet.
How many miles does a Kenworth W900 last?
A well-maintained Kenworth W900 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.
Decode your Kenworth W900’s window sticker & build
Original options, specs, recalls and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.
Decode VIN →All Kenworth W900 model years
A year-by-year snapshot of the Kenworth W900 — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.
| Year | Recalls | Best MPG | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2005 W900 | 9 recalls | — | — |
| 2004 W900 | 12 recalls | — | — |
| 2003 W900 | 6 recalls | — | — |
| 2002 W900 | 4 recalls | — | — |
| 2001 W900 | 9 recalls | — | — |
| 2000 W900 | 9 recalls | — | — |
| 1999 W900 | 10 recalls | — | — |
| 1998 W900 | 6 recalls | — | — |
| 1997 W900 | 5 recalls | — | — |
| 1996 W900 | 6 recalls | — | — |
| 1995 W900 | 2 recalls | — | — |
| 1994 W900 | 1 recall | — | — |
| 1993 W900 | 0 | — | — |
| 1992 W900 | 0 | — | — |
| 1991 W900 | 1 recall | — | — |
| 1990 W900 | 0 | — | — |
| 1989 W900 | 0 | — | — |
| 1988 W900 | 0 | — | — |
| 1987 W900 | 0 | — | — |
| 1986 W900 | 0 | — | — |
| 1985 W900 | 0 | — | — |
| 1984 W900 | 0 | — | — |
| 1983 W900 | 1 recall | — | — |
| 1982 W900 | 1 recall | — | — |
| 1981 W900 | 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 W900?
By owner-complaint volume, 2000, 1999, 1998 drew the most reports. 1981, 1982, 1984 have the cleanest records.
How many recalls does the W900 have?
82 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1981–2005. Always check open recalls by your VIN.
How many miles does a W900 last?
A well-maintained W900 typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the W900 reliable?
Our ForCar Reliability Score for the W900 is 3.5/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.
What's the Kenworth W900 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 W900 made?
The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your W900'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 W900 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.