PACCAR Incorporated, a leading manufacturer of commercial vehicles, is recalling more than 220,000 trucks in the United States, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said Monday.
The recall, which impacts certain Peterbilt and Kenworth models from 2021 to 2025, stems from potential issues with the electronic control units (ECUs) that could compromise critical safety systems.
PACCAR manufactures light-, medium- and heavy-duty trucks under the Kenworth, Peterbilt, and DAF nameplates.
According to the NHTSA, the recall encompasses 220,972 vehicles equipped with Bendix EC80 Advanced ECUs. The affected models include a wide range of Peterbilt and Kenworth trucks, such as the Kenworth T680, T880, and W990, as well as the Peterbilt 579 and 389, among others.
The NHTSA reports that the problem arises from electrical noise and low signal to the power line carrier, which may cause the ECU to incorrectly process commands or stop working altogether.
The malfunction could potentially disable some safety features, including automatic traction control, anti-lock braking system, electronic stability control, active cruise control, and collision mitigation system.
“Safety systems that depend on the ECU may not function properly or at all, increasing the risk of a crash,” the NHTSA stated in its notice.
Reprogram ECU Software
To address the issue, PACCAR dealers will reprogram the ECU software at no cost to vehicle owners. The company expects to begin notifying affected owners by Feb. 7, 2025.
Kenworth and Peterbilt customers can also contact their respective customer service departments for more information.
The recall comes at a time when PACCAR subsidiaries Peterbilt and Kenworth have been highlighting advancements in their vehicle technologies. Peterbilt recently announced the introduction of new LED pod headlights for its Model 589, highlighting improved visibility and safety features.
Jake Montero, assistant general manager of sales and marketing for Peterbilt, stated in a Dec. 12 press release, “The new polished aluminum LED pod headlights on the Model 589 exemplify our efforts to maintain the bold, Legendary styling of the Model 589 while helping fleets maximize productivity.”
Meanwhile, Kenworth has been showcasing its involvement in the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree program, using its T680 model to transport the national tree from Alaska to Washington, D.C.
The company highlighted in a Dec. 10 press release the advanced safety features of the T680, including digital mirrors, Bendix Fusion adaptive cruise control with stop and auto go, and lane keeping assist with torque assisted steering
John Schank, one of the drivers involved in the tree’s transport, praised Kenworth’s vehicles, saying, “I don’t think you can beat a Kenworth truck, they handle the tough conditions we see in Alaska.”
The NHTSA encourages vehicle owners to stay informed about recall notices and to promptly address any safety concerns.
Owners of potentially affected vehicles can also contact the NHTSA vehicle safety hotline for additional information or visit the NHTSA website for updates on this and other vehicle safety recalls.
Reuters contributed to this report.