PACCAR has recalled 5,919 model-year 2027 Peterbilt and Kenworth trucks after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) identified a potential issue with the vehicles’ power distribution center (PDC) boxes.
According to the recall, oil contamination inside the PDC box could interrupt electrical power to several critical vehicle systems, increasing the risk of a crash.
Electrical Issue May Affect Multiple Vehicle Systems
NHTSA said contaminated PDC boxes may result in the loss of drive power, anti-lock brake system (ABS) functionality, exterior lighting, windshield wipers, or the windshield defogging system.
Because of the potential loss of these safety-related functions, the affected vehicles do not comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards covering windshield defrosting and defogging systems, windshield wiping and washing systems, and lighting equipment.
Dealers Will Inspect and Replace Components
PACCAR dealers will inspect the serial numbers on the affected PDC boxes and replace the components when necessary at no cost to owners.
Interim owner notification letters explaining the safety risk are expected to be mailed beginning September 25, 2026. A second notification will be sent after a final repair solution becomes available.
Owners with questions can contact Peterbilt customer service at 1-940-591-4220, Kenworth customer service at 1-425-828-5888, or reference PACCAR recall number 26PACD.
Affected Models
The recall applies to the following 2027 model year trucks:
Kenworth T280
Kenworth T380
Kenworth T480
Kenworth T680
Kenworth T880
Kenworth W990
Peterbilt 536
Peterbilt 537
Peterbilt 548
Peterbilt 567
Peterbilt 579
Peterbilt 589
Drivers operating affected vehicles are encouraged to watch for their owner notification letter and schedule an inspection once dealers begin performing the recall repairs.
The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.
Last Updated: August 6, 2026
Source: The Trucker
