The Peterbilt 536 spans 2022–2026 with 39 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 4.0/5 ForCar reliability score. 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 536 is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 2022 to 2026 across multiple generations.
How to read a Peterbilt 536 VIN — every digit explained
Every Peterbilt 536 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 536.
- 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 536, see the complete guide to reading a VIN.
How many recalls does the Peterbilt 536 have?
The Peterbilt 536 has 39 recorded NHTSA recalls across 2022–2026. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.
2026 Peterbilt 536 recalls 2
Exterior Lighting:lighting Control Module:software
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2024-2026 Kenworth T480, T680, T880, W990, Peterbilt 520, 536, 537, 548, 567, 579, 589, 2025 Kenworth T180, Peterbilt 535, 2025-2026 Kenworth T280, T380 and L770 vehicles. The tail brake light, upper and lower beam headlights, reverse light, and turn signal may not illuminate as intended. In addition, the lift axles, if lowered, may revert to a raised position, or oscillate up and down when the signal warning lights are activated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices and Associated Equipment."
Risk. Delayed and unsteady headlights can result in insufficient illumination of the road, decreasing the driver's visibility and increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, an unexpected position change of the lift axles may increase the risk of injury.
Fix. Dealers will update the VCU software, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed August 19, 2025. Owners may contact Kenworth's customer service at 1-425-828-5888 and Peterbilt's customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's number for this recall is 25PACF.
Exterior Lighting:hazard Flashing Warning Lights:switch
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2025 Kenworth T180, Peterbilt 535, 567, 2025-2026 Kenworth T280, 2023-2026 Kenworth T380, 2024-2026 Kenworth T480, 2024-2026 Peterbilt 536, 537, and 548 trucks. The exterior lighting switch may fail, resulting in the hazard lights and the instrument display back-light brightness adjustment not functioning. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 101, "Control and Displays" and 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices and Associated Equipment."
Risk. Inoperative hazard lights cannot alert other drivers as intended. In addition, the inability to adjust the brightness on the instrument panel display can make it difficult to see critical safety information or distract the driver. Both scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will update the vehicle cab controller unit (VECU) software, free of charge. Owners are advised that a non-responsive switch can be temporarily reset by a key cycle. Owner notification letters were mailed March 26, 2025. Owners may contact Kenworth's customer service at 1-425-828-5888 and Peterbilt's customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 25KWB and 25PBB.
2025 Peterbilt 536 recalls 7
Exterior Lighting:lighting Control Module:software
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2024-2026 Kenworth T480, T680, T880, W990, Peterbilt 520, 536, 537, 548, 567, 579, 589, 2025 Kenworth T180, Peterbilt 535, 2025-2026 Kenworth T280, T380 and L770 vehicles. The tail brake light, upper and lower beam headlights, reverse light, and turn signal may not illuminate as intended. In addition, the lift axles, if lowered, may revert to a raised position, or oscillate up and down when the signal warning lights are activated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices and Associated Equipment."
Risk. Delayed and unsteady headlights can result in insufficient illumination of the road, decreasing the driver's visibility and increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, an unexpected position change of the lift axles may increase the risk of injury.
Fix. Dealers will update the VCU software, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed August 19, 2025. Owners may contact Kenworth's customer service at 1-425-828-5888 and Peterbilt's customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's number for this recall is 25PACF.
Exterior Lighting:hazard Flashing Warning Lights:switch
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2025 Kenworth T180, Peterbilt 535, 567, 2025-2026 Kenworth T280, 2023-2026 Kenworth T380, 2024-2026 Kenworth T480, 2024-2026 Peterbilt 536, 537, and 548 trucks. The exterior lighting switch may fail, resulting in the hazard lights and the instrument display back-light brightness adjustment not functioning. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 101, "Control and Displays" and 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices and Associated Equipment."
Risk. Inoperative hazard lights cannot alert other drivers as intended. In addition, the inability to adjust the brightness on the instrument panel display can make it difficult to see critical safety information or distract the driver. Both scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will update the vehicle cab controller unit (VECU) software, free of charge. Owners are advised that a non-responsive switch can be temporarily reset by a key cycle. Owner notification letters were mailed March 26, 2025. Owners may contact Kenworth's customer service at 1-425-828-5888 and Peterbilt's customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 25KWB and 25PBB.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2021-2025 Peterbilt and Kenworth vehicles, equipped with Bendix EC80 Advanced Electronic Control Units (ECU). Please see the recall report for a complete list of models. Electrical noise and low signal to the power line carrier may cause the ECU to incorrectly process commands or stop functioning.
Risk. Safety systems that depend on the ECU (Automatic Traction Control, ABS, Electronic Stability Control, Active Cruise Control, and Collison Mitigation System) may not function properly or at all, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will reprogram the ECU software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 3, 2025. Owners may contact Kenworth's customer service at 1-425-828-5888 and Peterbilt's customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 24KWL and 24PBL.
Power Train:axle Hubs
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2024 Peterbilt 537, 2024-2025 Kenworth T380, T480, Peterbilt 548, and 2025 Peterbilt 536 trucks, equipped with certain Meritor 10-16K and 18-23K front steer drive axles. The front steer drive axles may have insufficient wheel bearing lubricant.
Risk. Insufficient lubrication may cause the wheel hub to overheat, increasing the risk of a fire, or result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and repair the wheel end with new parts and lubricate the bearings as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed July 21, 2025. Owners may contact Kenworth's customer service at 1-425-828-5888 or Peterbilt's customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 24KWJ and 24PBJ.
Steering:linkages:tie Rod Assembly
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2025 Kenworth K270, K370, L770, T280, T380, T480, T680, T880, W900, W990, 2025 Peterbilt 220, 520, 536, 537, 548, 567, 579, and 589 trucks. The tie rod or drag link assembly may contain an improperly heat-treated ball stud, causing the ball stud to break.
Risk. A broken ball stud can cause a complete loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy has been completed. Dealers will inspect and replace the tie rod and drag link assemblies as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 6, 2024. Owners may contact Kenworth customer service at 1-425-828-5888 and Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 24KWG and 24PBG.
Steering:gear Box:shaft Sector
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2025 Peterbilt 536, 548, 567, 579, and Kenworth T280, T380, T480, T680, T880, and W990 vehicles. The steering gear sector shaft may have been improperly heat-treated, which can cause the gear teeth to crack or fracture.
Risk. Fractured steering gear teeth can cause a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the serial numbers, and replace the steering gears as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 7, 2024. Owners may contact Kenworth customer service at 1-425-828-5888 and Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 24PBF and 24KWF.
Steering
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Kenworth T280, T380, T480, T680, T880, L770, W990, and 2024-2025 Peterbilt 389, 520, 535, 536, 537, 548, 567, 579, 589 trucks. The steering gear assemblies may have been assembled incorrectly with fewer recirculating balls than are required, which may result in a loss of steering control.
Risk. A loss of steering control increases the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the steering gears as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 20, 2024. Owners may contact Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4220 and/or Kenworth customer service at 1-425-828-5888. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 24PBC and 24KWC.
2024 Peterbilt 536 recalls 11
Exterior Lighting:lighting Control Module:software
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2024-2026 Kenworth T480, T680, T880, W990, Peterbilt 520, 536, 537, 548, 567, 579, 589, 2025 Kenworth T180, Peterbilt 535, 2025-2026 Kenworth T280, T380 and L770 vehicles. The tail brake light, upper and lower beam headlights, reverse light, and turn signal may not illuminate as intended. In addition, the lift axles, if lowered, may revert to a raised position, or oscillate up and down when the signal warning lights are activated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices and Associated Equipment."
Risk. Delayed and unsteady headlights can result in insufficient illumination of the road, decreasing the driver's visibility and increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, an unexpected position change of the lift axles may increase the risk of injury.
Fix. Dealers will update the VCU software, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed August 19, 2025. Owners may contact Kenworth's customer service at 1-425-828-5888 and Peterbilt's customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's number for this recall is 25PACF.
Exterior Lighting:hazard Flashing Warning Lights:switch
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2025 Kenworth T180, Peterbilt 535, 567, 2025-2026 Kenworth T280, 2023-2026 Kenworth T380, 2024-2026 Kenworth T480, 2024-2026 Peterbilt 536, 537, and 548 trucks. The exterior lighting switch may fail, resulting in the hazard lights and the instrument display back-light brightness adjustment not functioning. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 101, "Control and Displays" and 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices and Associated Equipment."
Risk. Inoperative hazard lights cannot alert other drivers as intended. In addition, the inability to adjust the brightness on the instrument panel display can make it difficult to see critical safety information or distract the driver. Both scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will update the vehicle cab controller unit (VECU) software, free of charge. Owners are advised that a non-responsive switch can be temporarily reset by a key cycle. Owner notification letters were mailed March 26, 2025. Owners may contact Kenworth's customer service at 1-425-828-5888 and Peterbilt's customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 25KWB and 25PBB.
Vehicle Speed Control:accelerator Pedal
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Peterbilt 535, 536, 537, 548, 2023-2024 Kenworth T280, T380, T480, and 2024 Kenworth T180 trucks. The throttle pedal assembly may contain an oversized magnet carrier, slowing the responsiveness or causing the pedal to stick.
Risk. A pedal that sticks increases the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the throttle pedal as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed April 11, 2025. Owners may contact Peterbilt's customer service at 1-940-591-4220 and Kenworth's customer service at 1-425-828-5888. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 25PBA and 25KWA.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2021-2025 Peterbilt and Kenworth vehicles, equipped with Bendix EC80 Advanced Electronic Control Units (ECU). Please see the recall report for a complete list of models. Electrical noise and low signal to the power line carrier may cause the ECU to incorrectly process commands or stop functioning.
Risk. Safety systems that depend on the ECU (Automatic Traction Control, ABS, Electronic Stability Control, Active Cruise Control, and Collison Mitigation System) may not function properly or at all, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will reprogram the ECU software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 3, 2025. Owners may contact Kenworth's customer service at 1-425-828-5888 and Peterbilt's customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 24KWL and 24PBL.
Power Train:automatic Transmission:lever And Linkage:column Shift
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Peterbilt 365, 367, 389, 535, 536, 537, 548, 567, 579, and 2021-2025 Kenworth T180, T280, T380, T480, T680, T880 and W990 trucks. The right-hand gear shifter stalk connectors may have been improperly crimped, resulting in a loss of communication.
Risk. A loss of communication between the gear shifter and the transmission may result in the vehicle becoming disabled after coming to a stop, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the gear shifter assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed December 15, 2025, then phased after that. Owners may contact Kenworth customer service at 1-425-828-5888 or Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 24PBE and 24KWE.
Steering
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Kenworth T280, T380, T480, T680, T880, L770, W990, and 2024-2025 Peterbilt 389, 520, 535, 536, 537, 548, 567, 579, 589 trucks. The steering gear assemblies may have been assembled incorrectly with fewer recirculating balls than are required, which may result in a loss of steering control.
Risk. A loss of steering control increases the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the steering gears as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 20, 2024. Owners may contact Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4220 and/or Kenworth customer service at 1-425-828-5888. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 24PBC and 24KWC.
Visibility:rearview Mirrors/devices
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Peterbilt 535, 536, 537, 548, and Kenworth T180, T280, T380, T480 trucks. The glass lock ring on the cab mirror assembly may not be fully seated, allowing the mirror glass to detach.
Risk. A detached mirror glass can reduce driver visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the mirror glass lock ring and repair it as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed February 23, 2024. Owners may contact Kenworth customer service at 1-425-828-5888 and/or Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 24KWA and 24PBA.
Service Brakes, Air
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Kenworth T280, T380, 2020-2024 Peterbilt 548, 536, 2024 Peterbilt 537, and 2020-2024 Kenworth T480 trucks. The timing of the trailer brake release may be delayed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 121, "Air Brake Systems."
Risk. A delay in the trailer brake release can create instability to the trailer and increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will replace the fittings and hoses in the affected valves, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed January 15, 2024. Owners may contact Kenworth's customer service at 1-425-828-5888 and Peterbilt's customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 23KWJ and 23PBJ.
Fuel System, Diesel:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Kenworth T280, T380, T480, Peterbilt 536, 537, and 548 trucks. The remote Stage 2 fuel filter hoses may have been damaged during production, allowing the hoses to leak or disconnect.
Risk. A disconnected hose will result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash. Also, a fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Fix. Dealers will replace both hoses, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 4, 2023. Owners may contact Kenworth's customer service at 1-425-828-5888 and Peterbilt's customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 23KWF and 23PBF.
Power Train:driveline
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorportated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Peterbilt 536, 537, 548, 2023-2024 Kenworth T280, T480, and 2024 Kenworth T380 vehicles. The adhesive thread-lock may not have been applied to the four flange mounted yoke bolt threads, allowing the driveline fasteners to loosen.
Risk. Loose fasteners may allow the driveline to separate from the truck, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will apply adhesive thread-lock and replace the fasteners, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 19, 2023. Owners may contact PACCAR's customer service at 1-425-828-5888 (Kenworth) or 1-940-591-4220 (Peterbilt). PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 23KWE and 23PBE.
Service Brakes, Air
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Kenworth T280, T380, T480, Peterbilt 536, 537, and 548 vehicles. When the brake pedal is fully applied and then released rapidly, the pedal plunger that connects the brake pedal to the brake valve may become disconnected, causing the service brakes to fail.
Risk. Service brake failure can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will add a pedal restraint bracket, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 7, 2023. Owners may contact Kenworth's customer service at 1-425-828-588 and Peterbilt's customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 23KWB and 23PBB.
2023 Peterbilt 536 recalls 10
Vehicle Speed Control:accelerator Pedal
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Peterbilt 535, 536, 537, 548, 2023-2024 Kenworth T280, T380, T480, and 2024 Kenworth T180 trucks. The throttle pedal assembly may contain an oversized magnet carrier, slowing the responsiveness or causing the pedal to stick.
Risk. A pedal that sticks increases the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the throttle pedal as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed April 11, 2025. Owners may contact Peterbilt's customer service at 1-940-591-4220 and Kenworth's customer service at 1-425-828-5888. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 25PBA and 25KWA.
Power Train:automatic Transmission:lever And Linkage:column Shift
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Peterbilt 365, 367, 389, 535, 536, 537, 548, 567, 579, and 2021-2025 Kenworth T180, T280, T380, T480, T680, T880 and W990 trucks. The right-hand gear shifter stalk connectors may have been improperly crimped, resulting in a loss of communication.
Risk. A loss of communication between the gear shifter and the transmission may result in the vehicle becoming disabled after coming to a stop, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the gear shifter assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed December 15, 2025, then phased after that. Owners may contact Kenworth customer service at 1-425-828-5888 or Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 24PBE and 24KWE.
Visibility:rearview Mirrors/devices
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Peterbilt 535, 536, 537, 548, and Kenworth T180, T280, T380, T480 trucks. The glass lock ring on the cab mirror assembly may not be fully seated, allowing the mirror glass to detach.
Risk. A detached mirror glass can reduce driver visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the mirror glass lock ring and repair it as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed February 23, 2024. Owners may contact Kenworth customer service at 1-425-828-5888 and/or Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 24KWA and 24PBA.
Service Brakes, Air
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Kenworth T280, T380, 2020-2024 Peterbilt 548, 536, 2024 Peterbilt 537, and 2020-2024 Kenworth T480 trucks. The timing of the trailer brake release may be delayed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 121, "Air Brake Systems."
Risk. A delay in the trailer brake release can create instability to the trailer and increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will replace the fittings and hoses in the affected valves, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed January 15, 2024. Owners may contact Kenworth's customer service at 1-425-828-5888 and Peterbilt's customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 23KWJ and 23PBJ.
Fuel System, Diesel:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Kenworth T280, T380, T480, Peterbilt 536, 537, and 548 trucks. The remote Stage 2 fuel filter hoses may have been damaged during production, allowing the hoses to leak or disconnect.
Risk. A disconnected hose will result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash. Also, a fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Fix. Dealers will replace both hoses, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 4, 2023. Owners may contact Kenworth's customer service at 1-425-828-5888 and Peterbilt's customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 23KWF and 23PBF.
Power Train:driveline
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorportated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Peterbilt 536, 537, 548, 2023-2024 Kenworth T280, T480, and 2024 Kenworth T380 vehicles. The adhesive thread-lock may not have been applied to the four flange mounted yoke bolt threads, allowing the driveline fasteners to loosen.
Risk. Loose fasteners may allow the driveline to separate from the truck, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will apply adhesive thread-lock and replace the fasteners, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 19, 2023. Owners may contact PACCAR's customer service at 1-425-828-5888 (Kenworth) or 1-940-591-4220 (Peterbilt). PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 23KWE and 23PBE.
Service Brakes, Air
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Kenworth T280, T380, T480, Peterbilt 536, 537, and 548 vehicles. When the brake pedal is fully applied and then released rapidly, the pedal plunger that connects the brake pedal to the brake valve may become disconnected, causing the service brakes to fail.
Risk. Service brake failure can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will add a pedal restraint bracket, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 7, 2023. Owners may contact Kenworth's customer service at 1-425-828-588 and Peterbilt's customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 23KWB and 23PBB.
Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:engine Control Module (ecu/ecm)
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2023 Peterbilt 220, 389, 520, 536, 537, 348, 367, 567, 548, 579, and 2023 Kenworth T680, K270, T440, T880, W990, K370, T280, T380, T480, T800, and W900 vehicles. The engine control module (ECM) may experience an internal electrical short-circuit, causing the engine to stall.
Risk. An unexpected engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will replace the ECM, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 16, 2022. Owners may contact Kenworth's customer service at 1-425-828-5888 and Peterbilt's customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's number for this recall is 22KWG and 22PBG.
Steering
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Kenworth T170, T270, T280, T370, T380, T440, T470, T480, T680, T800, T880, W900, W990, C500, and 2022-2023 Peterbilt 325, 330, 337, 348, 365, 367, 389, 520, 536, 537, 548, 567, and 579 vehicles. The steering gears may have been assembled incorrectly, which can cause the gears to fracture.
Risk. A fractured steering gear can cause a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the steering gear serial numbers, and replace the steering gears as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 26, 2022. Owners may contact Kenworth's customer service at 1-425-828-5888 and Peterbilt's customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 22PBE and 22KWE.
Power Train:automatic Transmission
What's wrong. PACCAR, Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2022 Kenworth T180, 2021-2023 Kenworth T280, 2022-2023 Kenworth T380, 2022-2023 Peterbilt 536, and 537 vehicles. Internal components of the transmission actuator may slip, causing the actuator to become miscalibrated.
Risk. A miscalibrated actuator may cause the transmission to shift into an unexpected gear, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will replace the transmission actuator, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 8, 2022. Owners may contact PACCAR's customer service at 1-425-828-5888 (Kenworth); 1-940-591-4220 (Peterbilt). PACCAR's number for this recall is 22KWD and 22PBD.
2022 Peterbilt 536 recalls 9
Power Train:automatic Transmission:lever And Linkage:column Shift
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Peterbilt 365, 367, 389, 535, 536, 537, 548, 567, 579, and 2021-2025 Kenworth T180, T280, T380, T480, T680, T880 and W990 trucks. The right-hand gear shifter stalk connectors may have been improperly crimped, resulting in a loss of communication.
Risk. A loss of communication between the gear shifter and the transmission may result in the vehicle becoming disabled after coming to a stop, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the gear shifter assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed December 15, 2025, then phased after that. Owners may contact Kenworth customer service at 1-425-828-5888 or Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 24PBE and 24KWE.
Visibility:rearview Mirrors/devices
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Peterbilt 535, 536, 537, 548, and Kenworth T180, T280, T380, T480 trucks. The glass lock ring on the cab mirror assembly may not be fully seated, allowing the mirror glass to detach.
Risk. A detached mirror glass can reduce driver visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the mirror glass lock ring and repair it as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed February 23, 2024. Owners may contact Kenworth customer service at 1-425-828-5888 and/or Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 24KWA and 24PBA.
Service Brakes, Air
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Kenworth T280, T380, 2020-2024 Peterbilt 548, 536, 2024 Peterbilt 537, and 2020-2024 Kenworth T480 trucks. The timing of the trailer brake release may be delayed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 121, "Air Brake Systems."
Risk. A delay in the trailer brake release can create instability to the trailer and increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will replace the fittings and hoses in the affected valves, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed January 15, 2024. Owners may contact Kenworth's customer service at 1-425-828-5888 and Peterbilt's customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 23KWJ and 23PBJ.
Service Brakes, Air
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Kenworth T280, T380, T480, Peterbilt 536, 537, and 548 vehicles. When the brake pedal is fully applied and then released rapidly, the pedal plunger that connects the brake pedal to the brake valve may become disconnected, causing the service brakes to fail.
Risk. Service brake failure can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will add a pedal restraint bracket, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 7, 2023. Owners may contact Kenworth's customer service at 1-425-828-588 and Peterbilt's customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 23KWB and 23PBB.
Steering
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Kenworth T170, T270, T280, T370, T380, T440, T470, T480, T680, T800, T880, W900, W990, C500, and 2022-2023 Peterbilt 325, 330, 337, 348, 365, 367, 389, 520, 536, 537, 548, 567, and 579 vehicles. The steering gears may have been assembled incorrectly, which can cause the gears to fracture.
Risk. A fractured steering gear can cause a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the steering gear serial numbers, and replace the steering gears as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 26, 2022. Owners may contact Kenworth's customer service at 1-425-828-5888 and Peterbilt's customer service at 1-940-591-4220. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 22PBE and 22KWE.
Power Train:automatic Transmission
What's wrong. PACCAR, Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2022 Kenworth T180, 2021-2023 Kenworth T280, 2022-2023 Kenworth T380, 2022-2023 Peterbilt 536, and 537 vehicles. Internal components of the transmission actuator may slip, causing the actuator to become miscalibrated.
Risk. A miscalibrated actuator may cause the transmission to shift into an unexpected gear, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will replace the transmission actuator, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 8, 2022. Owners may contact PACCAR's customer service at 1-425-828-5888 (Kenworth); 1-940-591-4220 (Peterbilt). PACCAR's number for this recall is 22KWD and 22PBD.
Fuel System, Diesel:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Peterbilt 536, 537, 548 and Kenworth T270, T280, T370, T380, T440, T470, and T480 vehicles equipped with Cummins L9 diesel engines. A fuel leak may occur from the fuel hose between the fuel pump and the remote fuel filter head.
Risk. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Fix. Cummins will replace the fuel hoses, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed in October 2021. Owners may contact PACCAR's customer service at 1-425-828-5888 (Kenworth) and 1-940-591-4220 (Peterbilt). PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 21PBG and 21KWF.
Service Brakes, Air
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Kenworth T880, W990, Peterbilt 567, 579, 389, and 2022 Peterbilt 536, 537 wrecker and auto hauler vehicles. The work brake (winch brake) may unintentionally disengage the service brakes during winching operations, causing the vehicle to roll.
Risk. Unintended vehicle movement can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Fix. Dealers will update the vehicle software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on January 3, 2022. Owners may contact PACCAR customer service at 1-425-828-5888 (Kenworth); or 1-940-591-4220 (Peterbilt). PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 21KWG and 21PBM.
Electrical System:wiring
What's wrong. PACCAR Incorporated (PACCAR) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Peterbilt 567, 579, 2021-2022 Peterbilt 536, 2017-2021 Kenworth T880, 2016-2022 Kenworth T680, 2018-2020 Kenworth T440, 2020 Kenworth T270, and 2021 Kenworth T280 vehicles. The methane detection system will not function if the system loses power.
Risk. The operator may be unaware of a system malfunction or the presence of excessive methane levels, increasing the risk of injury or fire.
Fix. Dealers will re-wire the warning alarm, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 1, 2022. Owners may contact Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4220, and Kenworth customer service at 1-425-828-5888. PACCAR's numbers for this recall are 21KWH and 21PBN.
Best and worst years for the Peterbilt 536
We're still compiling NHTSA owner-complaint history for the Peterbilt 536 — best- and worst-year trends will appear here once that data is in.
What are the most common Peterbilt 536 problems?
We're still compiling NHTSA owner-complaint data for the Peterbilt 536 — the most-reported problems will appear here once that data is in.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.
Peterbilt 536 specifications & dimensions
The 2026 Peterbilt 536. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN. For the original factory build — MSRP, trim and standard equipment — rebuild the Peterbilt 536 window sticker.
| Specs cache warming… |
Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.
Peterbilt 536 cargo space, seating & interior room
How much the 536 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 536 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 536 get?
MPG cache warming… reload in a moment.
What engines does the Peterbilt 536 have? Power & range
Powertrain data warming… reload in a moment.
How much does a Peterbilt 536 cost to own?
A Peterbilt 536 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 536 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 536 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 536 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 536 safe?
NHTSA crash-test ratings aren't published for the 536 yet — see the top-rated safest cars instead.
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How many miles does a Peterbilt 536 last?
A well-maintained Peterbilt 536 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 536’s VIN — history, recalls & specs
Title records, open recalls, build details and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.
Check this 536’s VIN free →All Peterbilt 536 model years
A year-by-year snapshot of the Peterbilt 536 — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.
| Year | Recalls | Best MPG | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 536 | 2 recalls | — | — |
| 2025 536 | 7 recalls | — | — |
| 2024 536 | 11 recalls | — | — |
| 2023 536 | 10 recalls | — | — |
| 2022 536 | 9 recalls | — | — |
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 536?
We're still compiling NHTSA owner-complaint history for the Peterbilt 536.
How many recalls does the 536 have?
39 recorded NHTSA recalls across 2022–2026. Always check open recalls by your VIN.
How many miles does a 536 last?
A well-maintained 536 typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the 536 reliable?
Our ForCar Reliability Score for the 536 is 4.0/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.
What's the Peterbilt 536 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 536 made?
The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your 536'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 536 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.