2003 Peterbilt 385 recalls and problems
The 2003 Peterbilt 385 has 3 safety recalls. Recall repairs are free at any Peterbilt dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2003 Peterbilt 385 vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2003 Peterbilt 385 recalls
Recall 03V-410: Steering
Problem: On certain trucks equipped with dana spicer integral knuckle and steer arm assemblies, the steer axle assemblies may have a longitudinal crack in the steer arm.
Risk: If the crack should propagate over time, the ball could become loose resulting in a loss of steering, which could result in a crash.
Fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the knuckle and steer arm assemblies. Owner notification began january 5, 2004. Owners should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440 or peterbilt at 1-940-591-4201.
Recall 03V-288: Power Train
Problem: On certain heavy duty trucks, the locking tab that locks the outer spindle nut onto the spindle was not engaged or properly bent over.
Risk: Failure to properly engage the locking feature into the nut could cause the nut to loosen which will eventually cause the wheel bearing to over heat and fail if undetected. If the loose nut is not detected, the outer end (Tire, wheel and hub assembly) could become separated from the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will inspect the hubs to determine if the locking tabs are properly bent. If the locking tabs are not bent, then dealers will inspect the appropriate components for premature wear and replace such components as required and properly secure the retaining nut by bending over the locking tab. Owner notification began september 17, 2003. Owners should contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440 or peterbilt at 940-591-4201.
Recall 03V-168: Trailer Hitches
Problem: On certain trucks equipped with jost international jsk 37u series fifth wheels, a fatigue crack can develop in the bracket pin weld under certain loading conditions.
Risk: If left undetected or corrected it could lead to the separation of the fifth wheel top plate from its mounting structure, possibly resulting in a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the bracket pins and repair instructions free of charge. Peterbilt's owner notification began june 20, 2003. Kenworth's owner notification began june 12, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact peterbilt at 940-591-4201 or kenworth 425-828-5440.
Other Peterbilt 385 years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2003 Peterbilt 385 have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 3 recalls for the 2003 Peterbilt 385: 03V-410 (steering), 03V-288 (power train), 03V-168 (trailer hitches). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Are Peterbilt recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Peterbilt dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.