The problem
PACCAR is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Kenworth T680 and T880 trucks, manufactured from January 18, 2012, through February 1, 2013; and model year 2013-2014 Peterbilt 579 and 567 vehicles, manufactured from January 20, 2012, through January 31, 2013. The Exterior Lights Self-Test switch is intended to be used when the vehicle is parked. If the switch is pressed while the vehicle is in motion, the Exterior Lights Self-Test switch will cause all exterior lighting to be extinguished.
The risk
An unexpected loss of lighting during vehicle operation may reduce the driver's ability to see other vehicles, pedestrians, or objects, as well as reduce the truck's visibility to other drivers or pedestrians, increasing the risk of crash.
The fix
PACCAR will notify owners, and dealers will disable the Exterior Lights Self-Test software parameter and remove the Exterior Lights Self-Test switch and install a switch plug in its place. The services will be offered free of charge. The recall began on February 28, 2013. Owners may contact Kenworth at 1-425-828-5000 or Peterbilt at 1-940-591-4000.
Contacts
The exterior lights will re-illuminate if the switch is pushed again. Kenworth's recall campaign number is 13KWB. Peterbilt's recall campaign number is 0213-B. Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
What to do
- Check your VIN. Enter it at nhtsa.gov/recalls - it shows whether this recall applies to your vehicle and whether the repair has been done.
- Call a dealer. Any authorized Kenworth, Peterbilt dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 13V048000.
- Ask about parts and a loaner. If parts aren't available yet, ask what to do in the meantime.
- Keep your paperwork. If you paid for this repair before the recall, you may be able to get reimbursed - here's how.