Peterbilt 579 trucks recalled for electrical fire risk from fastener defect
PACCAR is recalling 2021-2023 Peterbilt 579 trucks with MX-13 engines because an improperly installed fastener can chafe the alternator cable, increasing fire risk.
What this means for you
Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 3/5 (High).
Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.
Our severity reasoning: The recall addresses a structural electrical defect that increases fire risk in commercial vehicles. However, no deaths, injuries, or actual fire incidents have been reported in the source text. Per the rubric, risk-of-harm products without reported injuries score at most 3.
Plain-English summary
PACCAR Incorporated is recalling certain 2021-2023 Peterbilt 579 vehicles equipped with MX-13 engines and 160-amp alternators. A fastener on the front spring bracket may have been installed with the head positioned on the outside of the frame rail, rather than the correct orientation.
This improper installation can cause the fastener to chafe and damage the alternator positive cable over time. A damaged alternator cable increases the risk of an electrical fire.
The recall affects approximately 4,967 vehicles. Owners will receive notification letters beginning August 11, 2023. Dealers will replace the frame fastener and secure the alternator cable at no cost to owners.
Owners should contact their Peterbilt dealer or PACCAR customer service at 1-940-591-4220 with questions. The PACCAR reference number for this recall is 23PBD. For additional information, owners can contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or visit www.nhtsa.gov.
The recalled product
- Product
- PETERBILT 579
- Brand
- PETERBILT
- Manufacturer
- PACCAR Incorporated
- Affected units
- 4,967
Is your product affected?
Check your packaging against the codes below. If any of them match, the product is part of this recall.
Model numbers (1)
- 579
Distribution
Distributed nationwide across the United States.
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