The Peterbilt 387 spans 1981–2023 with 84 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 4.0/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 2008, 2009, 2005 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 1981, 1982, 1983. It delivers competitive fuel economy and NHTSA-rated safety.
How we score: NHTSA crash-test safety (40%), recall frequency across all years (25%) and the share of owner complaints involving a crash, fire or injury (35%). Based on NHTSA & EPA data — not user reviews.
Overview
The Peterbilt 387 is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 1981 to 2023 across multiple generations.
How to read a Peterbilt 387 VIN — every digit explained
Every Peterbilt 387 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 Peterbilt and the country it was built in (real Peterbilt 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 387.
- Serial (12–17) — the unique sequential production number.
- USA1XP
- Canada2XP
- Mexico3WP
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 387, see the complete guide to reading a VIN.
How many recalls does the Peterbilt 387 have?
The Peterbilt 387 has 84 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1981–2023. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.
2016 Peterbilt 387 recalls 2
Equipment:other:labels
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain model year 2006-2016 Peterbilt 587, 579, 567, 389, 388, 387, 385, 382, 379, 378, 367, 365 and 357 trucks manufactured July 25, 2005, to February 26, 2016. The affected vehicles may be equipped with Tire and Rim Certification Labels that list a tire pressure below the actual correct amount. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 120, "Tire selection and rims and motor home/recreation vehicle trailer load carrying capacity information for motor vehicles with a GVWR of more than 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds)."
Risk. If the tires are underinflated due to the incorrect inflation pressure listed on the label, the truck may not be able to carry the maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) load listed without experiencing tire failure which would increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Peterbilt will notify owners and mail them a corrected Tire and Rim certification label, free of charge. The recall began on June 19, 2015. Owners may contact Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4000. PACCAR's number for this recall is 215-D.
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2008-2019 Peterbilt 330, 335, 337, 340, 348, 365, 367, 384, 386, 387, 388, 389, 567, 579 and 587 vehicles and 2008-2020 Kenworth T170, T270, T370, T660, T680, T800, T880, and W900 vehicles equipped with NAMUX Software. In the event that the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) loses battery and/or ignition power to the controller, the dash warning light for the ABS may not illuminate to warn the driver of the loss of ABS. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 121, "Air Brake Systems," and 136, "Electronic Stability Control System on Heavy Vehicles."
Risk. If the driver unknowingly operates the vehicle without the ABS functioning, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Fix. PACCAR will notify owners, and dealers will update the NAMUX software within the cab control module, free of charge. PACCAR issued owners an interim notification on June 4, 2020. The recall began May 26, 2020. Owners may contact Kenworth customer service at 1-425-828-5888 or Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's number for this recall is 20pbc AND 20KWB.
2015 Peterbilt 387 recalls 2
Equipment:other:labels
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain model year 2006-2016 Peterbilt 587, 579, 567, 389, 388, 387, 385, 382, 379, 378, 367, 365 and 357 trucks manufactured July 25, 2005, to February 26, 2016. The affected vehicles may be equipped with Tire and Rim Certification Labels that list a tire pressure below the actual correct amount. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 120, "Tire selection and rims and motor home/recreation vehicle trailer load carrying capacity information for motor vehicles with a GVWR of more than 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds)."
Risk. If the tires are underinflated due to the incorrect inflation pressure listed on the label, the truck may not be able to carry the maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) load listed without experiencing tire failure which would increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Peterbilt will notify owners and mail them a corrected Tire and Rim certification label, free of charge. The recall began on June 19, 2015. Owners may contact Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4000. PACCAR's number for this recall is 215-D.
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2008-2019 Peterbilt 330, 335, 337, 340, 348, 365, 367, 384, 386, 387, 388, 389, 567, 579 and 587 vehicles and 2008-2020 Kenworth T170, T270, T370, T660, T680, T800, T880, and W900 vehicles equipped with NAMUX Software. In the event that the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) loses battery and/or ignition power to the controller, the dash warning light for the ABS may not illuminate to warn the driver of the loss of ABS. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 121, "Air Brake Systems," and 136, "Electronic Stability Control System on Heavy Vehicles."
Risk. If the driver unknowingly operates the vehicle without the ABS functioning, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Fix. PACCAR will notify owners, and dealers will update the NAMUX software within the cab control module, free of charge. PACCAR issued owners an interim notification on June 4, 2020. The recall began May 26, 2020. Owners may contact Kenworth customer service at 1-425-828-5888 or Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's number for this recall is 20pbc AND 20KWB.
2014 Peterbilt 387 recalls 2
Equipment:other:labels
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain model year 2006-2016 Peterbilt 587, 579, 567, 389, 388, 387, 385, 382, 379, 378, 367, 365 and 357 trucks manufactured July 25, 2005, to February 26, 2016. The affected vehicles may be equipped with Tire and Rim Certification Labels that list a tire pressure below the actual correct amount. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 120, "Tire selection and rims and motor home/recreation vehicle trailer load carrying capacity information for motor vehicles with a GVWR of more than 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds)."
Risk. If the tires are underinflated due to the incorrect inflation pressure listed on the label, the truck may not be able to carry the maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) load listed without experiencing tire failure which would increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Peterbilt will notify owners and mail them a corrected Tire and Rim certification label, free of charge. The recall began on June 19, 2015. Owners may contact Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4000. PACCAR's number for this recall is 215-D.
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2008-2019 Peterbilt 330, 335, 337, 340, 348, 365, 367, 384, 386, 387, 388, 389, 567, 579 and 587 vehicles and 2008-2020 Kenworth T170, T270, T370, T660, T680, T800, T880, and W900 vehicles equipped with NAMUX Software. In the event that the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) loses battery and/or ignition power to the controller, the dash warning light for the ABS may not illuminate to warn the driver of the loss of ABS. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 121, "Air Brake Systems," and 136, "Electronic Stability Control System on Heavy Vehicles."
Risk. If the driver unknowingly operates the vehicle without the ABS functioning, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Fix. PACCAR will notify owners, and dealers will update the NAMUX software within the cab control module, free of charge. PACCAR issued owners an interim notification on June 4, 2020. The recall began May 26, 2020. Owners may contact Kenworth customer service at 1-425-828-5888 or Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's number for this recall is 20pbc AND 20KWB.
2013 Peterbilt 387 recalls 2
Equipment:other:labels
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain model year 2006-2016 Peterbilt 587, 579, 567, 389, 388, 387, 385, 382, 379, 378, 367, 365 and 357 trucks manufactured July 25, 2005, to February 26, 2016. The affected vehicles may be equipped with Tire and Rim Certification Labels that list a tire pressure below the actual correct amount. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 120, "Tire selection and rims and motor home/recreation vehicle trailer load carrying capacity information for motor vehicles with a GVWR of more than 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds)."
Risk. If the tires are underinflated due to the incorrect inflation pressure listed on the label, the truck may not be able to carry the maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) load listed without experiencing tire failure which would increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Peterbilt will notify owners and mail them a corrected Tire and Rim certification label, free of charge. The recall began on June 19, 2015. Owners may contact Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4000. PACCAR's number for this recall is 215-D.
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2008-2019 Peterbilt 330, 335, 337, 340, 348, 365, 367, 384, 386, 387, 388, 389, 567, 579 and 587 vehicles and 2008-2020 Kenworth T170, T270, T370, T660, T680, T800, T880, and W900 vehicles equipped with NAMUX Software. In the event that the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) loses battery and/or ignition power to the controller, the dash warning light for the ABS may not illuminate to warn the driver of the loss of ABS. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 121, "Air Brake Systems," and 136, "Electronic Stability Control System on Heavy Vehicles."
Risk. If the driver unknowingly operates the vehicle without the ABS functioning, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Fix. PACCAR will notify owners, and dealers will update the NAMUX software within the cab control module, free of charge. PACCAR issued owners an interim notification on June 4, 2020. The recall began May 26, 2020. Owners may contact Kenworth customer service at 1-425-828-5888 or Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's number for this recall is 20pbc AND 20KWB.
2012 Peterbilt 387 recalls 3
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2008-2019 Peterbilt 330, 335, 337, 340, 348, 365, 367, 384, 386, 387, 388, 389, 567, 579 and 587 vehicles and 2008-2020 Kenworth T170, T270, T370, T660, T680, T800, T880, and W900 vehicles equipped with NAMUX Software. In the event that the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) loses battery and/or ignition power to the controller, the dash warning light for the ABS may not illuminate to warn the driver of the loss of ABS. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 121, "Air Brake Systems," and 136, "Electronic Stability Control System on Heavy Vehicles."
Risk. If the driver unknowingly operates the vehicle without the ABS functioning, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Fix. PACCAR will notify owners, and dealers will update the NAMUX software within the cab control module, free of charge. PACCAR issued owners an interim notification on June 4, 2020. The recall began May 26, 2020. Owners may contact Kenworth customer service at 1-425-828-5888 or Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's number for this recall is 20pbc AND 20KWB.
Fuel System, Other:storage:tank Assembly
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 kenworth t2000, t660, t700, t800, and w900, as well as model year 2009-2012 peterbilt 365, 367, 384, 386, 387, 388, 389, and 587 trucks equipped with paccar mx engines. The oil module centrifugal spinner filter cap in the paccar mx engine may become loose, possibly allowing the cap to come off and engine oil to partially discharge from the oil module onto exhaust components.
Risk. The discharge of engine oil onto exhaust components which are hot, such as when the engine is under significant load, may cause a fire.
Fix. Dealers will re-torque the oil module filter cap and install a secondary retention device on the secondary centrifugal spinner filter cap. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin during march 2011. Owners may contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440 and peterbilt at 1-940-591-4196.
Equipment:other:labels
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain model year 2006-2016 Peterbilt 587, 579, 567, 389, 388, 387, 385, 382, 379, 378, 367, 365 and 357 trucks manufactured July 25, 2005, to February 26, 2016. The affected vehicles may be equipped with Tire and Rim Certification Labels that list a tire pressure below the actual correct amount. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 120, "Tire selection and rims and motor home/recreation vehicle trailer load carrying capacity information for motor vehicles with a GVWR of more than 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds)."
Risk. If the tires are underinflated due to the incorrect inflation pressure listed on the label, the truck may not be able to carry the maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) load listed without experiencing tire failure which would increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Peterbilt will notify owners and mail them a corrected Tire and Rim certification label, free of charge. The recall began on June 19, 2015. Owners may contact Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4000. PACCAR's number for this recall is 215-D.
2011 Peterbilt 387 recalls 6
Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System:emission Control:gas Recirculation Valve (egr Valve)
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling certain model year kenworth and peterbilt vehicles. A manufacturing defect in the seal supplied by a component manufacturer installed on the output shaft of the exhaust gas recirculation (egr) valve actuator may cause eventual delamination of the seal. Delamination of the seal may allow engine oil to leak from the egr valve onto exhaust components.
Risk. The leaking of engine oil onto hot exhaust components, such as when the engine is under significant load, may create the possibility of a fire.
Fix. Dealers will replace the egr valve assembly on the subject vehicles equipped with the paccar mx engine. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall began on october 29, 2010. Owners may contact kenworth at 425-828-5440 and peterbilt at 940-591-4196.
Electrical System:software
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 kenworth t660, t700, and t800 vehicles manufactured from april 19, 2010, through may 13, 2011, and model year 2008, 2010, and 2011 peterbilt 365, 367, 384, 386, 387, 388 and 587 vehicles manufactured from april 20, 2010, through june 11, 2011, and equipped with paccar mx engines and eaton ultrashift dm or allison automatic transmissions (without auto-neutral). The fast idle control may be activated by the operator while the transmission is in gear.
Risk. If the fast idle control function is engaged with the transmission in gear, the vehicle could unexpectedly accelerate and override the parking brake and , creating a risk of a crash and damage to other vehicles or property and the potential for injury to nearby pedestrians.
Fix. Kenworth and peterbilt dealers will update the engine software for the affected chassis. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall began on august 22, 2011. Owners may contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440 and peterbilt at 1-940-591-4196.
Engine And Engine Cooling
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 kenworth c500, t2000, t600, and t660, as well as model year 2009-2011 peterbilt 387 and 388 trucks equipped with caterpillar c15 engine and manufactured from may 11, 2006, through september 17, 2010. Degradation of a combustion tube weld can cause radial heat impingement on the body which may burn through certain bodies used on c15 engines.
Risk. This could result in a fire.
Fix. Caterpillar is handling the owner notification and remedy for this campaign. Please see caterpillar's defect report 11e-006. Caterpillar will replace the single piece combustion tube with a thick wall combustion tube which will not allow the heat to break through. This service will be performed free of charge. Due to a parts supply issue, owners will be notified by the end of april 2011 about the safety defect, and will then be notified again once the free remedy is available, currently estimated to be around late july 2011. Owners may contact caterpillar toll-free at 1-800-447-4986.
Fuel System, Other:storage:tank Assembly
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 kenworth t2000, t660, t700, t800, and w900, as well as model year 2009-2012 peterbilt 365, 367, 384, 386, 387, 388, 389, and 587 trucks equipped with paccar mx engines. The oil module centrifugal spinner filter cap in the paccar mx engine may become loose, possibly allowing the cap to come off and engine oil to partially discharge from the oil module onto exhaust components.
Risk. The discharge of engine oil onto exhaust components which are hot, such as when the engine is under significant load, may cause a fire.
Fix. Dealers will re-torque the oil module filter cap and install a secondary retention device on the secondary centrifugal spinner filter cap. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin during march 2011. Owners may contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440 and peterbilt at 1-940-591-4196.
Equipment:other:labels
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain model year 2006-2016 Peterbilt 587, 579, 567, 389, 388, 387, 385, 382, 379, 378, 367, 365 and 357 trucks manufactured July 25, 2005, to February 26, 2016. The affected vehicles may be equipped with Tire and Rim Certification Labels that list a tire pressure below the actual correct amount. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 120, "Tire selection and rims and motor home/recreation vehicle trailer load carrying capacity information for motor vehicles with a GVWR of more than 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds)."
Risk. If the tires are underinflated due to the incorrect inflation pressure listed on the label, the truck may not be able to carry the maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) load listed without experiencing tire failure which would increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Peterbilt will notify owners and mail them a corrected Tire and Rim certification label, free of charge. The recall began on June 19, 2015. Owners may contact Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4000. PACCAR's number for this recall is 215-D.
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2008-2019 Peterbilt 330, 335, 337, 340, 348, 365, 367, 384, 386, 387, 388, 389, 567, 579 and 587 vehicles and 2008-2020 Kenworth T170, T270, T370, T660, T680, T800, T880, and W900 vehicles equipped with NAMUX Software. In the event that the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) loses battery and/or ignition power to the controller, the dash warning light for the ABS may not illuminate to warn the driver of the loss of ABS. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 121, "Air Brake Systems," and 136, "Electronic Stability Control System on Heavy Vehicles."
Risk. If the driver unknowingly operates the vehicle without the ABS functioning, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Fix. PACCAR will notify owners, and dealers will update the NAMUX software within the cab control module, free of charge. PACCAR issued owners an interim notification on June 4, 2020. The recall began May 26, 2020. Owners may contact Kenworth customer service at 1-425-828-5888 or Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's number for this recall is 20pbc AND 20KWB.
2010 Peterbilt 387 recalls 6
Steering:column
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling certain model year 2008-2010 trucks equipped with trw steering shafts. The circumferential weld around the steering shaft tube that welds the splined tube to the non-splined tube may be mislocated. Mislocation of the circumferential weld may allow the splined tube and non-splined tube to rotate relative to one another during a low speed, high torque turn, possibly resulting in a separation of the two tubes.
Risk. A separation of the splined and non-splined tubes would cause a loss of steering control and increase the risk of a vehicle crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the steering shaft using a weld placement gauge provided by trw. Any steering shaft found to have been welded improperly will be replaced free of charge. The safety recall began on july 30, 2010. Owners may contact kenworth at 425-828-5440 and peterbilt at 940-591-4196.
Electrical System:software
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 kenworth t660, t700, and t800 vehicles manufactured from april 19, 2010, through may 13, 2011, and model year 2008, 2010, and 2011 peterbilt 365, 367, 384, 386, 387, 388 and 587 vehicles manufactured from april 20, 2010, through june 11, 2011, and equipped with paccar mx engines and eaton ultrashift dm or allison automatic transmissions (without auto-neutral). The fast idle control may be activated by the operator while the transmission is in gear.
Risk. If the fast idle control function is engaged with the transmission in gear, the vehicle could unexpectedly accelerate and override the parking brake and , creating a risk of a crash and damage to other vehicles or property and the potential for injury to nearby pedestrians.
Fix. Kenworth and peterbilt dealers will update the engine software for the affected chassis. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall began on august 22, 2011. Owners may contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440 and peterbilt at 1-940-591-4196.
Engine And Engine Cooling
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 kenworth c500, t2000, t600, and t660, as well as model year 2009-2011 peterbilt 387 and 388 trucks equipped with caterpillar c15 engine and manufactured from may 11, 2006, through september 17, 2010. Degradation of a combustion tube weld can cause radial heat impingement on the body which may burn through certain bodies used on c15 engines.
Risk. This could result in a fire.
Fix. Caterpillar is handling the owner notification and remedy for this campaign. Please see caterpillar's defect report 11e-006. Caterpillar will replace the single piece combustion tube with a thick wall combustion tube which will not allow the heat to break through. This service will be performed free of charge. Due to a parts supply issue, owners will be notified by the end of april 2011 about the safety defect, and will then be notified again once the free remedy is available, currently estimated to be around late july 2011. Owners may contact caterpillar toll-free at 1-800-447-4986.
Fuel System, Other:storage:tank Assembly
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 kenworth t2000, t660, t700, t800, and w900, as well as model year 2009-2012 peterbilt 365, 367, 384, 386, 387, 388, 389, and 587 trucks equipped with paccar mx engines. The oil module centrifugal spinner filter cap in the paccar mx engine may become loose, possibly allowing the cap to come off and engine oil to partially discharge from the oil module onto exhaust components.
Risk. The discharge of engine oil onto exhaust components which are hot, such as when the engine is under significant load, may cause a fire.
Fix. Dealers will re-torque the oil module filter cap and install a secondary retention device on the secondary centrifugal spinner filter cap. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin during march 2011. Owners may contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440 and peterbilt at 1-940-591-4196.
Equipment:other:labels
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain model year 2006-2016 Peterbilt 587, 579, 567, 389, 388, 387, 385, 382, 379, 378, 367, 365 and 357 trucks manufactured July 25, 2005, to February 26, 2016. The affected vehicles may be equipped with Tire and Rim Certification Labels that list a tire pressure below the actual correct amount. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 120, "Tire selection and rims and motor home/recreation vehicle trailer load carrying capacity information for motor vehicles with a GVWR of more than 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds)."
Risk. If the tires are underinflated due to the incorrect inflation pressure listed on the label, the truck may not be able to carry the maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) load listed without experiencing tire failure which would increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Peterbilt will notify owners and mail them a corrected Tire and Rim certification label, free of charge. The recall began on June 19, 2015. Owners may contact Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4000. PACCAR's number for this recall is 215-D.
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2008-2019 Peterbilt 330, 335, 337, 340, 348, 365, 367, 384, 386, 387, 388, 389, 567, 579 and 587 vehicles and 2008-2020 Kenworth T170, T270, T370, T660, T680, T800, T880, and W900 vehicles equipped with NAMUX Software. In the event that the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) loses battery and/or ignition power to the controller, the dash warning light for the ABS may not illuminate to warn the driver of the loss of ABS. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 121, "Air Brake Systems," and 136, "Electronic Stability Control System on Heavy Vehicles."
Risk. If the driver unknowingly operates the vehicle without the ABS functioning, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Fix. PACCAR will notify owners, and dealers will update the NAMUX software within the cab control module, free of charge. PACCAR issued owners an interim notification on June 4, 2020. The recall began May 26, 2020. Owners may contact Kenworth customer service at 1-425-828-5888 or Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's number for this recall is 20pbc AND 20KWB.
2009 Peterbilt 387 recalls 9
Steering:column
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling certain model year 2008-2010 trucks equipped with trw steering shafts. The circumferential weld around the steering shaft tube that welds the splined tube to the non-splined tube may be mislocated. Mislocation of the circumferential weld may allow the splined tube and non-splined tube to rotate relative to one another during a low speed, high torque turn, possibly resulting in a separation of the two tubes.
Risk. A separation of the splined and non-splined tubes would cause a loss of steering control and increase the risk of a vehicle crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the steering shaft using a weld placement gauge provided by trw. Any steering shaft found to have been welded improperly will be replaced free of charge. The safety recall began on july 30, 2010. Owners may contact kenworth at 425-828-5440 and peterbilt at 940-591-4196.
Steering:column
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling 2,096 my 2009 kenworth and peterbilt vehicles equipped with trw steering shafts. Mislocation of a circumferential weld may allow the splined tube and non-splined tube to rotate relative to one another during a low speed, high torque turn, possibly resulting in a separation of the two tubes.
Risk. A separation of the splined and non-splined tubes could cause a loss of steering control and increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the steering shaft using a weld placement gauge and miswelded steering shaft will be replaced free of charge. The recall began july 31, 2009. Owners may contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440 and peterbilt at 1-940-591-4196.
Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:diesel
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling 1098 kenworth my 2008 t800, w900, my 2008-2009 t2000 and peterbilt my 2007-2009 379 and 387 trucks equipped with c15 caterpillar diesel engines. The aftertreatment regeneration device (ard) may develop a hole and heat and flame may escape during a regeneration of the diesel particulate filter.
Risk. This may result in a fire hazard.
Fix. Paccar is working with caterpillar and will inspect and remedy the engines free of charge. Owners may contact caterpillar at 1-800-447-4986, kenworth at 425-828-5440 or peterbilt at 940-591-4196.
Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:diesel
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling 4,883 my 2006-2009 kenworth t600, t660, t800, w900, t2000 and my 2008-2009 peterbilt 365, 367, 379, 384, 386, 387, 388 and 389 trucks. Inadequate stiffness of the diesel particulate filter (dpf) bracket could result in separation of the dpf from the chassis.
Risk. A vehicle crash could occur if another vehicle strikes the dpf on the roadway.
Fix. Paccar is working with caterpillar to repair these vehicles (please see 08e041). Owners may contact caterpillar at 1-800-447-4986 or kenworth at 1-425-828-5440 or peterbilt at 1-940-591-4196.
Engine And Engine Cooling
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 kenworth c500, t2000, t600, and t660, as well as model year 2009-2011 peterbilt 387 and 388 trucks equipped with caterpillar c15 engine and manufactured from may 11, 2006, through september 17, 2010. Degradation of a combustion tube weld can cause radial heat impingement on the body which may burn through certain bodies used on c15 engines.
Risk. This could result in a fire.
Fix. Caterpillar is handling the owner notification and remedy for this campaign. Please see caterpillar's defect report 11e-006. Caterpillar will replace the single piece combustion tube with a thick wall combustion tube which will not allow the heat to break through. This service will be performed free of charge. Due to a parts supply issue, owners will be notified by the end of april 2011 about the safety defect, and will then be notified again once the free remedy is available, currently estimated to be around late july 2011. Owners may contact caterpillar toll-free at 1-800-447-4986.
Fuel System, Other:storage:tank Assembly
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 kenworth t2000, t660, t700, t800, and w900, as well as model year 2009-2012 peterbilt 365, 367, 384, 386, 387, 388, 389, and 587 trucks equipped with paccar mx engines. The oil module centrifugal spinner filter cap in the paccar mx engine may become loose, possibly allowing the cap to come off and engine oil to partially discharge from the oil module onto exhaust components.
Risk. The discharge of engine oil onto exhaust components which are hot, such as when the engine is under significant load, may cause a fire.
Fix. Dealers will re-torque the oil module filter cap and install a secondary retention device on the secondary centrifugal spinner filter cap. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin during march 2011. Owners may contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440 and peterbilt at 1-940-591-4196.
Equipment:other:labels
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain model year 2006-2016 Peterbilt 587, 579, 567, 389, 388, 387, 385, 382, 379, 378, 367, 365 and 357 trucks manufactured July 25, 2005, to February 26, 2016. The affected vehicles may be equipped with Tire and Rim Certification Labels that list a tire pressure below the actual correct amount. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 120, "Tire selection and rims and motor home/recreation vehicle trailer load carrying capacity information for motor vehicles with a GVWR of more than 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds)."
Risk. If the tires are underinflated due to the incorrect inflation pressure listed on the label, the truck may not be able to carry the maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) load listed without experiencing tire failure which would increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Peterbilt will notify owners and mail them a corrected Tire and Rim certification label, free of charge. The recall began on June 19, 2015. Owners may contact Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4000. PACCAR's number for this recall is 215-D.
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2008-2019 Peterbilt 330, 335, 337, 340, 348, 365, 367, 384, 386, 387, 388, 389, 567, 579 and 587 vehicles and 2008-2020 Kenworth T170, T270, T370, T660, T680, T800, T880, and W900 vehicles equipped with NAMUX Software. In the event that the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) loses battery and/or ignition power to the controller, the dash warning light for the ABS may not illuminate to warn the driver of the loss of ABS. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 121, "Air Brake Systems," and 136, "Electronic Stability Control System on Heavy Vehicles."
Risk. If the driver unknowingly operates the vehicle without the ABS functioning, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Fix. PACCAR will notify owners, and dealers will update the NAMUX software within the cab control module, free of charge. PACCAR issued owners an interim notification on June 4, 2020. The recall began May 26, 2020. Owners may contact Kenworth customer service at 1-425-828-5888 or Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's number for this recall is 20pbc AND 20KWB.
Latches/locks/linkages:doors:latch
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling 6,169 my 2008 kenworth t300, t660, t800, t2000, w900 and c500 vehicles and my 2008-2009 peterbilt models 365, 367, 384, 387, 388, 389 and 389 kits. Certain door latch assemblies on these vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 206, 'door locks and door retention components." the rotor in some of these door latch assemblies did not receive the proper heat treatment and may be soft.
Risk. In the event of a crash, force could cause the rotor to crack and the door would not have primary or secondary closing security which could possibly lead to injury of the vehicle occupant.
Fix. Paccar is working with trimark and will inspect and replace the door latch if it is found to be defective. The recall began on march 14, 2008. Owners may contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440 or peterbilt at 1-940-591-4196.
2008 Peterbilt 387 recalls 14
Steering:gear Box:shaft Sector
What's wrong. On certain kenworth and peterbilt heavy duty trucks equipped with tas-85 trw steering gears, the inner surface of the outer sector shaft teeth of the steering gears may have an incorrect involute profile, which may lead to chipping and damage of the gearing system.
Risk. This type of damage may cause a "bind/stick" condition in the vehicle steering during a turn increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will repair and replace any suspect tas-85 steering gear assembly free of charge. The recall began on january 9, 2008. Owners may contact kenworth at 425-828-5440 and peterbilt at 940-591-4201.
Fuel System, Diesel:storage:tank Assembly
What's wrong. On certain peterbilt trucks, the longitudinal seams on the fuel tanks were fabricated using an incorrect weld speed for the given material thickness. This error resulted in a weld which did not completely penetrate the entire material thickness.
Risk. Fuel tanks possessing this defect could leak diesel fuel in the event of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and replace any defective fuel tanks free of charge. The recall began on october 8, 2007. Owners may contact peterbilt at 940-591-4201.
Service Brakes, Air:supply:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
What's wrong. Certain trucks equipped with eaton synflex eclipse brand extruded nylon air brake hose tubing fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 106, "brake hoses." the tubing was manufactured with only four layers of nylon material, instead of the specified five layers.
Risk. The diameter of the hose affects the fittings which may allow air to leak from the brakes and create the potential for a vehicle crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the air brake hoses and, if necessary, replace the hoses. The recall began on february 22, 2008. Owner notification schedule for this campaign. Owners may contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440 or peterbilt at 1-940-591-4196.
Steering:column
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling certain model year 2008-2010 trucks equipped with trw steering shafts. The circumferential weld around the steering shaft tube that welds the splined tube to the non-splined tube may be mislocated. Mislocation of the circumferential weld may allow the splined tube and non-splined tube to rotate relative to one another during a low speed, high torque turn, possibly resulting in a separation of the two tubes.
Risk. A separation of the splined and non-splined tubes would cause a loss of steering control and increase the risk of a vehicle crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the steering shaft using a weld placement gauge provided by trw. Any steering shaft found to have been welded improperly will be replaced free of charge. The safety recall began on july 30, 2010. Owners may contact kenworth at 425-828-5440 and peterbilt at 940-591-4196.
Latches/locks/linkages:doors:latch
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling 6,169 my 2008 kenworth t300, t660, t800, t2000, w900 and c500 vehicles and my 2008-2009 peterbilt models 365, 367, 384, 387, 388, 389 and 389 kits. Certain door latch assemblies on these vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 206, 'door locks and door retention components." the rotor in some of these door latch assemblies did not receive the proper heat treatment and may be soft.
Risk. In the event of a crash, force could cause the rotor to crack and the door would not have primary or secondary closing security which could possibly lead to injury of the vehicle occupant.
Fix. Paccar is working with trimark and will inspect and replace the door latch if it is found to be defective. The recall began on march 14, 2008. Owners may contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440 or peterbilt at 1-940-591-4196.
Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:diesel
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling 1098 kenworth my 2008 t800, w900, my 2008-2009 t2000 and peterbilt my 2007-2009 379 and 387 trucks equipped with c15 caterpillar diesel engines. The aftertreatment regeneration device (ard) may develop a hole and heat and flame may escape during a regeneration of the diesel particulate filter.
Risk. This may result in a fire hazard.
Fix. Paccar is working with caterpillar and will inspect and remedy the engines free of charge. Owners may contact caterpillar at 1-800-447-4986, kenworth at 425-828-5440 or peterbilt at 940-591-4196.
Power Train:axle Assembly
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling certain model year 2007-2008 kenworth and peterbilt vehicles manufactured from february 2, 2006 through april 30, 2007. The bearing surfaces of the extended lube universal joint that attaches the inter-axle driveline to the drive axle may become prematurely worn due to breakdown of lubrication and/or excessive heat. Prematurely worn bearing surfaces may result in the u-joint becoming loose and/or binding. This condition may result in universal joint failure, allowing the inter-axle driveline to detach from the axle.
Risk. Detachment of the driveline from the axle may cause the vehicle to lose power and become disabled in the roadway. Also, the driveline could drop from the vehicle into the roadway increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Paccar is working with its supplier to remedy the vehicles free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin during february 2011. Owners may contact kenworth at 425-828-5440 and peterbilt at 940-591-4196.
Electrical System:software
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 kenworth t660, t700, and t800 vehicles manufactured from april 19, 2010, through may 13, 2011, and model year 2008, 2010, and 2011 peterbilt 365, 367, 384, 386, 387, 388 and 587 vehicles manufactured from april 20, 2010, through june 11, 2011, and equipped with paccar mx engines and eaton ultrashift dm or allison automatic transmissions (without auto-neutral). The fast idle control may be activated by the operator while the transmission is in gear.
Risk. If the fast idle control function is engaged with the transmission in gear, the vehicle could unexpectedly accelerate and override the parking brake and , creating a risk of a crash and damage to other vehicles or property and the potential for injury to nearby pedestrians.
Fix. Kenworth and peterbilt dealers will update the engine software for the affected chassis. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall began on august 22, 2011. Owners may contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440 and peterbilt at 1-940-591-4196.
Fuel System, Other:storage:tank Assembly
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 kenworth t2000, t660, t700, t800, and w900, as well as model year 2009-2012 peterbilt 365, 367, 384, 386, 387, 388, 389, and 587 trucks equipped with paccar mx engines. The oil module centrifugal spinner filter cap in the paccar mx engine may become loose, possibly allowing the cap to come off and engine oil to partially discharge from the oil module onto exhaust components.
Risk. The discharge of engine oil onto exhaust components which are hot, such as when the engine is under significant load, may cause a fire.
Fix. Dealers will re-torque the oil module filter cap and install a secondary retention device on the secondary centrifugal spinner filter cap. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin during march 2011. Owners may contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440 and peterbilt at 1-940-591-4196.
Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:diesel
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling 4,883 my 2006-2009 kenworth t600, t660, t800, w900, t2000 and my 2008-2009 peterbilt 365, 367, 379, 384, 386, 387, 388 and 389 trucks. Inadequate stiffness of the diesel particulate filter (dpf) bracket could result in separation of the dpf from the chassis.
Risk. A vehicle crash could occur if another vehicle strikes the dpf on the roadway.
Fix. Paccar is working with caterpillar to repair these vehicles (please see 08e041). Owners may contact caterpillar at 1-800-447-4986 or kenworth at 1-425-828-5440 or peterbilt at 1-940-591-4196.
Equipment:other:labels
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain model year 2006-2016 Peterbilt 587, 579, 567, 389, 388, 387, 385, 382, 379, 378, 367, 365 and 357 trucks manufactured July 25, 2005, to February 26, 2016. The affected vehicles may be equipped with Tire and Rim Certification Labels that list a tire pressure below the actual correct amount. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 120, "Tire selection and rims and motor home/recreation vehicle trailer load carrying capacity information for motor vehicles with a GVWR of more than 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds)."
Risk. If the tires are underinflated due to the incorrect inflation pressure listed on the label, the truck may not be able to carry the maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) load listed without experiencing tire failure which would increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Peterbilt will notify owners and mail them a corrected Tire and Rim certification label, free of charge. The recall began on June 19, 2015. Owners may contact Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4000. PACCAR's number for this recall is 215-D.
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2008-2019 Peterbilt 330, 335, 337, 340, 348, 365, 367, 384, 386, 387, 388, 389, 567, 579 and 587 vehicles and 2008-2020 Kenworth T170, T270, T370, T660, T680, T800, T880, and W900 vehicles equipped with NAMUX Software. In the event that the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) loses battery and/or ignition power to the controller, the dash warning light for the ABS may not illuminate to warn the driver of the loss of ABS. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 121, "Air Brake Systems," and 136, "Electronic Stability Control System on Heavy Vehicles."
Risk. If the driver unknowingly operates the vehicle without the ABS functioning, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Fix. PACCAR will notify owners, and dealers will update the NAMUX software within the cab control module, free of charge. PACCAR issued owners an interim notification on June 4, 2020. The recall began May 26, 2020. Owners may contact Kenworth customer service at 1-425-828-5888 or Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's number for this recall is 20pbc AND 20KWB.
+ 2 more 2008 recalls — see all by your exact VIN.
2007 Peterbilt 387 recalls 6
Suspension
What's wrong. On some peterbilt trucks, certain parts used in the air suspensions have a high copper content causing premature failure.
Risk. Failure could cause erratic vehicle handling which can cause a vehicle crash without warning.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and, when necessary, replace the defective parts. The recall began on january 17, 2007. Owners may contact peterbilt at 1-940-591-4196.
Power Train:axle Assembly
What's wrong. On certain trucks, the axle housings may have been manufactured with steel that was out of specification which could result in a fatigue failure over time.
Risk. If a fatigue failure occurs and is left unattended, the axle may lock up or the end of the axle could come off, which may result in a vehicle crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the axles free of charge. The recall began on may 9, 2007. Owners may contact kenworth at 425-828-5440 and peterbilt at 1-940-591-4196.
Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:diesel
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling 1098 kenworth my 2008 t800, w900, my 2008-2009 t2000 and peterbilt my 2007-2009 379 and 387 trucks equipped with c15 caterpillar diesel engines. The aftertreatment regeneration device (ard) may develop a hole and heat and flame may escape during a regeneration of the diesel particulate filter.
Risk. This may result in a fire hazard.
Fix. Paccar is working with caterpillar and will inspect and remedy the engines free of charge. Owners may contact caterpillar at 1-800-447-4986, kenworth at 425-828-5440 or peterbilt at 940-591-4196.
Power Train:axle Assembly
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling certain model year 2007-2008 kenworth and peterbilt vehicles manufactured from february 2, 2006 through april 30, 2007. The bearing surfaces of the extended lube universal joint that attaches the inter-axle driveline to the drive axle may become prematurely worn due to breakdown of lubrication and/or excessive heat. Prematurely worn bearing surfaces may result in the u-joint becoming loose and/or binding. This condition may result in universal joint failure, allowing the inter-axle driveline to detach from the axle.
Risk. Detachment of the driveline from the axle may cause the vehicle to lose power and become disabled in the roadway. Also, the driveline could drop from the vehicle into the roadway increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Paccar is working with its supplier to remedy the vehicles free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin during february 2011. Owners may contact kenworth at 425-828-5440 and peterbilt at 940-591-4196.
Fuel System, Other:storage:tank Assembly
What's wrong. Paccar is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 kenworth t2000, t660, t700, t800, and w900, as well as model year 2009-2012 peterbilt 365, 367, 384, 386, 387, 388, 389, and 587 trucks equipped with paccar mx engines. The oil module centrifugal spinner filter cap in the paccar mx engine may become loose, possibly allowing the cap to come off and engine oil to partially discharge from the oil module onto exhaust components.
Risk. The discharge of engine oil onto exhaust components which are hot, such as when the engine is under significant load, may cause a fire.
Fix. Dealers will re-torque the oil module filter cap and install a secondary retention device on the secondary centrifugal spinner filter cap. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin during march 2011. Owners may contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440 and peterbilt at 1-940-591-4196.
Equipment:other:labels
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain model year 2006-2016 Peterbilt 587, 579, 567, 389, 388, 387, 385, 382, 379, 378, 367, 365 and 357 trucks manufactured July 25, 2005, to February 26, 2016. The affected vehicles may be equipped with Tire and Rim Certification Labels that list a tire pressure below the actual correct amount. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 120, "Tire selection and rims and motor home/recreation vehicle trailer load carrying capacity information for motor vehicles with a GVWR of more than 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds)."
Risk. If the tires are underinflated due to the incorrect inflation pressure listed on the label, the truck may not be able to carry the maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) load listed without experiencing tire failure which would increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Peterbilt will notify owners and mail them a corrected Tire and Rim certification label, free of charge. The recall began on June 19, 2015. Owners may contact Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4000. PACCAR's number for this recall is 215-D.
2006 Peterbilt 387 recalls 4
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.
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.
Trailer Hitches:fifth Wheel Assembly
What's wrong. On certain trucks, the fifth wheel king pin release air valve internal spool was installed backwards. The air option of the king pin release system would be inoperable. To correct this situation in production, the vehicle's air lines were mistakenly reversed rather than replacing the valve.
Risk. There is a possibility that the king pin can release without the driver's knowledge. When this occurs, the driver could drive away and the trailer could become disengaged.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the functionality of the king pin release system and suspect valve. If any vehicles have a non-conforming valve or incorrect plumbing, it will be replaced and re-plumbed. The recall began on february 28, 2007. Owners may contact peterbilt at 940-591-4196.
Equipment:other:labels
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain model year 2006-2016 Peterbilt 587, 579, 567, 389, 388, 387, 385, 382, 379, 378, 367, 365 and 357 trucks manufactured July 25, 2005, to February 26, 2016. The affected vehicles may be equipped with Tire and Rim Certification Labels that list a tire pressure below the actual correct amount. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 120, "Tire selection and rims and motor home/recreation vehicle trailer load carrying capacity information for motor vehicles with a GVWR of more than 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds)."
Risk. If the tires are underinflated due to the incorrect inflation pressure listed on the label, the truck may not be able to carry the maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) load listed without experiencing tire failure which would increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Peterbilt will notify owners and mail them a corrected Tire and Rim certification label, free of charge. The recall began on June 19, 2015. Owners may contact Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4000. PACCAR's number for this recall is 215-D.
2005 Peterbilt 387 recalls 4
Seats
What's wrong. On certain heavy duty trucks, the pivot bolts which hold the seat back frame to the seat cushion frame can loosen and possibly fracture or dislodge, causing the seat back to fail to provide full support to the driver.
Risk. A possible vehicle crash could occur should the seat fall backwards during use.
Fix. Gra-mag will provide customers with repair kits which include instructions and parts to repair the seat. Owners should contact gra-mag at 614-875-8435 or peterbilt at 940-591-4201.
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.
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.
Equipment
What's wrong. On certain trucks, when using a cummins electronic icon service tool 2.2, an unintended engine start will occur.
Risk. Given the purpose and functionality of this service tool, this series of events would only occur in a service facility and could pose a hazard if the truck were to unexpectedly move or the engine to start without any warning, possibly causing personal injury.
Fix. Cummins is conducting this recall (please see 06e063000) and will replace the icon service tool 2.2 with a new icon service tool 2.3 free of charge. Owners may contact cummins at 1-800-343-7357 or peterbilt at 1-940-591-4201.
2004 Peterbilt 387 recalls 3
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.
Equipment
What's wrong. On certain trucks, when using a cummins electronic icon service tool 2.2, an unintended engine start will occur.
Risk. Given the purpose and functionality of this service tool, this series of events would only occur in a service facility and could pose a hazard if the truck were to unexpectedly move or the engine to start without any warning, possibly causing personal injury.
Fix. Cummins is conducting this recall (please see 06e063000) and will replace the icon service tool 2.2 with a new icon service tool 2.3 free of charge. Owners may contact cummins at 1-800-343-7357 or peterbilt at 1-940-591-4201.
Seats
What's wrong. On certain heavy duty trucks, the pivot bolts which hold the seat back frame to the seat cushion frame can loosen and possibly fracture or dislodge, causing the seat back to fail to provide full support to the driver.
Risk. A possible vehicle crash could occur should the seat fall backwards during use.
Fix. Gra-mag will provide customers with repair kits which include instructions and parts to repair the seat. Owners should contact gra-mag at 614-875-8435 or peterbilt at 940-591-4201.
2003 Peterbilt 387 recalls 2
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.
Steering:linkages:knuckle:spindle:arm
What's wrong. On certain trucks equipped with dana spicer integral knuckle and steer arm assemblies, the steer axle assemblies may have a longitudinal crack in the steer arm.
Risk. If the crack should propagate over time, the ball could become loose resulting in a loss of steering, which could result in a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the knuckle and steer arm assemblies. Owner notification began january 5, 2004. Owners should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440 or peterbilt at 1-940-591-4201.
2002 Peterbilt 387 recalls 2
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.
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.
2001 Peterbilt 387 recalls 2
Service Brakes, Air:supply:check Valve
What's wrong. On certain heavy duty trucks equipped with meritor wabco pneumatic anitlock brake system (abs) valve packages, the assembly bolts on these valve packages were not tightened correctly.
Risk. Bolts torqued below specification will not reliably prevent air leakage at the affected abs valve package interface joints once the component begins normal vehicle operation. If air leaks develop at any of the abs valve package interface joints, brake system pressure reductions could occur during braking or normal operation with units equipped with the traction control option, potentially extending stopping distances, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
Fix. Dealers will tighten the fasteners to the proper specification. Owner notification began february 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 kenworth at 1-425-828-5440 or peterbilt at 1-940-591-4201.
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.
2000 Peterbilt 387 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.
Electrical System:wiring
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks. These vehicles are equipped with peterbilt's smartgage system containing a reduced function interface module (rfim). This module receives data from various components/systems on the vehicle then sends the information to a microprocessor. A manufacturing defect in the rfim's can allow water to penetrate into the pressure block portion of the module, causing an electrical short in the pressure transducer connector.
Risk. This results in an erroneous air pressure reading on the gauge in the dash.
Fix. The rfim date code will be inspected and all rfim's built prior to september 9, 2000 will be replaced. Owner notification began june 13, 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.
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.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:pedals And Linkages
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks. There is an interference between the throttle pedal and the brake pedal.
Risk. The brake pedal may not operate as intended, resulting in greater brake pedal effort and/or delayed brake release.
Fix. Dealers will replace the throttle pedal bracket.
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.
Unknown Or Other
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks. The steer axle mudflaps and/or mudflap stiffeners can rub a hole in the forward surface of the undercab fuel tank, causing a hole in the fuel tank.
Risk. This can result in fuel leakage. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire.
Fix. Dealers will provide replacement mudflap assemblies smaller than the original assemblies to owners and the fuel tank will be checked for abrasion and replaced if damaged.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly:mounting
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks. The side fairing hinge bar and mounts can detach from the fuel tank straps. The hinge bar can rotate and separate from the fairing, allowing the hinge bar assembly to fall off of the vehicle.
Risk. This could cause a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will install an additional nut plate and if the bracket is cracked, the fuel tank strap will be replaced with a new strap and bracket assembly.
1999 Peterbilt 387 recalls 7
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.
Electrical System:wiring
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks. These vehicles are equipped with peterbilt's smartgage system containing a reduced function interface module (rfim). This module receives data from various components/systems on the vehicle then sends the information to a microprocessor. A manufacturing defect in the rfim's can allow water to penetrate into the pressure block portion of the module, causing an electrical short in the pressure transducer connector.
Risk. This results in an erroneous air pressure reading on the gauge in the dash.
Fix. The rfim date code will be inspected and all rfim's built prior to september 9, 2000 will be replaced. Owner notification began june 13, 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.
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.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:pedals And Linkages
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks. There is an interference between the throttle pedal and the brake pedal.
Risk. The brake pedal may not operate as intended, resulting in greater brake pedal effort and/or delayed brake release.
Fix. Dealers will replace the throttle pedal bracket.
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.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly:mounting
What's wrong. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks. The side fairing hinge bar and mounts can detach from the fuel tank straps. The hinge bar can rotate and separate from the fairing, allowing the hinge bar assembly to fall off of the vehicle.
Risk. This could cause a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will install an additional nut plate and if the bracket is cracked, the fuel tank strap will be replaced with a new strap and bracket assembly.
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.
1998 Peterbilt 387 recalls 1
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.
Best and worst years for the Peterbilt 387
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 43 tracked years, the worst years are 2008, 2009, 2005 and the best (fewest complaints) are 1981, 1982, 1983.
ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.
| Year | Owner complaints | Top issue | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1981 387 | — | Best | |
| 1982 387 | — | Best | |
| 1983 387 | — | Best | |
| 1984 387 | — | Average | |
| 1985 387 | — | Average | |
| 1986 387 | — | Average | |
| 1987 387 | — | Average | |
| 1988 387 | — | Average | |
| 1989 387 | — | Average | |
| 1990 387 | — | Average | |
| 1991 387 | — | Average | |
| 1992 387 | — | Average | |
| 1993 387 | — | Average | |
| 1994 387 | — | Average | |
| 1995 387 | — | Average | |
| 1996 387 | — | Average | |
| 1997 387 | — | Average | |
| 1998 387 | — | Average | |
| 1999 387 | — | Average | |
| 2000 387 | — | Average | |
| 2001 387 | Service Brakes | Average | |
| 2002 387 | — | Average | |
| 2003 387 | — | Average | |
| 2004 387 | Latches/locks/linkages | Average | |
| 2005 387 | Engine And Engine Cooling | Avoid | |
| 2006 387 | — | Average | |
| 2007 387 | — | Average | |
| 2008 387 | Engine | Avoid | |
| 2009 387 | Engine | Avoid | |
| 2010 387 | — | Average | |
| 2011 387 | — | Average | |
| 2012 387 | — | Average | |
| 2013 387 | — | Average | |
| 2014 387 | — | Average | |
| 2015 387 | — | Average | |
| 2016 387 | — | Average | |
| 2017 387 | — | Average | |
| 2018 387 | — | Average | |
| 2019 387 | — | Average | |
| 2020 387 | — | Average | |
| 2021 387 | — | Average | |
| 2022 387 | — | Average | |
| 2023 387 | — | Average |
What are the most common Peterbilt 387 problems?
The most-reported Peterbilt 387 problems are Air (2 reports), Engine (3 reports) and Steering (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:
Engine 3 Read
Tl* the contact owns a 2009 peterbilt conventional 387. The contact stated that the dps filter failed to work and that the system was running hot. The vehicle was taken to a mechanic who cleaned the filter, updated the software to the dpf, and reprogrammed the dps software but the failure recurred with the system indicating that it was running hot. The vehicle was to be taken back to the dealer for further inspection. The vehicle was not included in nhtsa campaign number: 11v203000 (engine and engine cooling). The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure several times and provided no remedy. The approximate failure mileage was 400,000.
Tl* the contact owns a 2008 peterbilt 387. While driving various speeds, the dpf malfunctioned and caused the engine to overheat and the vehicle to stall. No further information was available. The contact indicated that the vehicle experienced the failure on multiple occasions and had been serviced multiple times. The entire dpf system was replaced, but the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vin was not available. The failure mileage was 300,000.
First, my turbo went out june24th 2014. Second the d.p.f filter and sensors. I only had the truck for 90days and already spent over 9000 dollars on it. *js
Service Brakes 3 Read
Vehicle caught fire suddenly while traveling on the interstate, the investigation revealed that the fire resulted from a brake drum failure causing a tire fire which spread through the vehicle resulting in a total loss of tractor, an investigation revealed that manufacturer was aware defects such as electrical and brake mishaps.(attorney on behalf of client)*yd
Before the above truck was purchased, of note is that the check engine light was on, as well as after the purchase of same truck. Fussell truck sales reset the engine light on wednesday, september 23, 2015. I placed vehicle on a diagnostic computer on today, september 29th, 2015, and was notified that the check engine light that was on due to a need to underlying need for a faulty transmission and regent system , which does not resolve the root cause of the problem. The truck was purchased on september 2, 2015, and has a 30-day warranty, and i am exercising my rights to surrender the aboved mentioned vehicle as unsafe and a danger to public health. This truck does not comply with national highway traffic safety regulations.
Dt*: the contact stated while driving various speeds on rough road conditions, the air tank bracket of the air brake supply fractured without warning. The vehicle was inspected by an independent repair shop and a dealer who replaced the air brackets, but the problem continued to occur. The manufacturer was contacted.
Engine And Engine Cooling 2 Read
Tl*the contact owns a 2008 peterbilt 387. The contact stated that the dps injectors would not regenerate on the vehicle. As a consequence, the vehicle would sporadically decelerate. The check engine indicator would illuminate when the failure occurred. The vehicle has been taken to the dealer on numerous occasions and they stated that the diesel engine was the cause of the failure. She received a recall notice for nhtsa campaign id number 09v019000(engine and engine cooling:engine:diesel) and is currently waiting on a response from the dealer. The failure mileage was 80,000 and current mileage was 116,000.
2005 peterbilt 387. Consumer requests reimbursement for repairs *tgw the consumer stated prior to the recall, he had to fix several oil leaks on the truck and incurred costly expenses. The truck had to be towed due to a hole in the vva oil line. *jb
Air 2 Read
Vehicle caught fire suddenly while traveling on the interstate, the investigation revealed that the fire resulted from a brake drum failure causing a tire fire which spread through the vehicle resulting in a total loss of tractor, an investigation revealed that manufacturer was aware defects such as electrical and brake mishaps.(attorney on behalf of client)*yd
Dt*: the contact stated while driving various speeds on rough road conditions, the air tank bracket of the air brake supply fractured without warning. The vehicle was inspected by an independent repair shop and a dealer who replaced the air brackets, but the problem continued to occur. The manufacturer was contacted.
Steering 1 Read
Steering linkage is a critical failure in the peterbilt 387. I have a 2009 model, and only 4 months old, it now makes scary popping and creaking noise. From my understanding from other drivers of the same model vehicle, steering seizes to the right or left making it hard to break it loose. My opinion is that paccar needs to modify and improve the steering components. For me, the popping and creaking noise gets louder and louder every day. I'm thinking its the material used that's a complete fail. Peterbilt isn't willing to honor their mistake on my truck, telling me this is normal. Please do look into this component. Peoples lives are at risk when it comes to an 80,000lb road hazard. Thanks. *tr
Power Train 1 Read
Before the above truck was purchased, of note is that the check engine light was on, as well as after the purchase of same truck. Fussell truck sales reset the engine light on wednesday, september 23, 2015. I placed vehicle on a diagnostic computer on today, september 29th, 2015, and was notified that the check engine light that was on due to a need to underlying need for a faulty transmission and regent system , which does not resolve the root cause of the problem. The truck was purchased on september 2, 2015, and has a 30-day warranty, and i am exercising my rights to surrender the aboved mentioned vehicle as unsafe and a danger to public health. This truck does not comply with national highway traffic safety regulations.
Electrical System 1 Read
First, my turbo went out june24th 2014. Second the d.p.f filter and sensors. I only had the truck for 90days and already spent over 9000 dollars on it. *js
Fuel/propulsion System 1 Read
First, my turbo went out june24th 2014. Second the d.p.f filter and sensors. I only had the truck for 90days and already spent over 9000 dollars on it. *js
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.
Peterbilt 387 specifications & dimensions
The 2023 Peterbilt 387. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN. For the original factory build — MSRP, trim and standard equipment — rebuild the Peterbilt 387 window sticker.
| Specs cache warming… |
Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.
Peterbilt 387 cargo space, seating & interior room
How much the 387 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.
Peterbilt 387 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 Peterbilt 387 get?
MPG cache warming… reload in a moment.
What engines does the Peterbilt 387 have? Power & range
Powertrain data warming… reload in a moment.
How much does a Peterbilt 387 cost to own?
A Peterbilt 387 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 387 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 387 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 387 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 Peterbilt 387 safe?
NHTSA crash-test ratings aren't published for the 387 yet — see the top-rated safest cars instead.
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How many miles does a Peterbilt 387 last?
A well-maintained Peterbilt 387 typically lasts 250,000–300,000+ miles. It's exceptionally durable — with routine maintenance many owners report 250k+ on the original powertrain. Its ForCar Reliability Score is 4.0/5.
Check your Peterbilt 387’s VIN — history, recalls & specs
Title records, open recalls, build details and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.
Check this 387’s VIN free →All Peterbilt 387 model years
A year-by-year snapshot of the Peterbilt 387 — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.
| Year | Recalls | Best MPG | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 387 | 0 | — | — |
| 2022 387 | 0 | — | — |
| 2021 387 | 0 | — | — |
| 2020 387 | 0 | — | — |
| 2019 387 | 0 | — | — |
| 2018 387 | 0 | — | — |
| 2017 387 | 0 | — | — |
| 2016 387 | 2 recalls | — | — |
| 2015 387 | 2 recalls | — | — |
| 2014 387 | 2 recalls | — | — |
| 2013 387 | 2 recalls | — | — |
| 2012 387 | 3 recalls | — | — |
| 2011 387 | 6 recalls | — | — |
| 2010 387 | 6 recalls | — | — |
| 2009 387 | 9 recalls | — | — |
| 2008 387 | 14 recalls | — | — |
| 2007 387 | 6 recalls | — | — |
| 2006 387 | 4 recalls | — | — |
| 2005 387 | 4 recalls | — | — |
| 2004 387 | 3 recalls | — | — |
| 2003 387 | 2 recalls | — | — |
| 2002 387 | 2 recalls | — | — |
| 2001 387 | 2 recalls | — | — |
| 2000 387 | 7 recalls | — | — |
| 1999 387 | 7 recalls | — | — |
| 1998 387 | 1 recall | — | — |
| 1997 387 | 0 | — | — |
| 1996 387 | 0 | — | — |
| 1995 387 | 0 | — | — |
| 1994 387 | 0 | — | — |
| 1993 387 | 0 | — | — |
| 1992 387 | 0 | — | — |
| 1991 387 | 0 | — | — |
| 1990 387 | 0 | — | — |
| 1989 387 | 0 | — | — |
| 1988 387 | 0 | — | — |
| 1987 387 | 0 | — | — |
| 1986 387 | 0 | — | — |
| 1985 387 | 0 | — | — |
| 1984 387 | 0 | — | — |
| 1983 387 | 0 | — | — |
| 1982 387 | 0 | — | — |
| 1981 387 | 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 387?
By owner-complaint volume, 2008, 2009, 2005 drew the most reports. 1981, 1982, 1983 have the cleanest records.
How many recalls does the 387 have?
84 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1981–2023. Always check open recalls by your VIN.
How many miles does a 387 last?
A well-maintained 387 typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the 387 reliable?
Our ForCar Reliability Score for the 387 is 4.0/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.
What's the Peterbilt 387 warranty?
New Peterbilt 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 Peterbilt dealer.
Where is the Peterbilt 387 made?
The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your 387's VIN above to see exactly where it was built; Peterbilt may build it at more than one plant depending on the year.
How much ground clearance does the 387 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.