Kenworth T480: problems, complaints, bulletins
Summary for the Kenworth T480 across 8 model years: 0 owner complaints and 57 NHTSA service bulletins, plus repair videos. Pick a year for details.
Model years
Components owners complain about
| Component | Owner complaints | involving a crash | Technical service bulletins (TSB) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical system | 0 | 0 | 63 |
| Powertrain | 0 | 0 | 36 |
| Service brakes | 0 | 0 | 23 |
| Exterior lighting | 0 | 0 | 20 |
| Engine | 0 | 0 | 19 |
| Steering | 0 | 0 | 17 |
| Fuel/propulsion system | 0 | 0 | 6 |
| Engine and cooling | 0 | 0 | 5 |
| Forward collision avoidance | 0 | 0 | 5 |
| Equipment | 0 | 0 | 4 |
| Backover prevention | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| Visibility | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| Fuel system | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Suspension | 0 | 0 | 2 |
What to check before buying
- Electrical system. Scan all modules, test the battery and alternator, inspect connectors near the impact zone.
- Powertrain. Shift quality under load, harsh shifts, transmission codes, CV joints.
- Service brakes. Pedal feel, ABS operation, leaks, discs and hoses.
- Exterior lighting. Headlamps, leveling, sensors and mounts after a frontal hit.
Manufacturer service bulletins
Bulletin titles as filed with NHTSA.
- Information has been added to identify that ECAT incorrectly identifies PS386 as the correct transmission…
- "The PKC Group power distribution center (PDC) in certain vehicles may be contaminated with oil, which…
- "Kenworth
- Updated Sheppard Steering Gear Classification Tool link in Inspection Procedure
- The verbiage in the Introduction section has been updated
- An improved transmission bracket is now available for replacement on certain chassis equipped with a…
- "KW & PB
- The repair procedure has been updated to include diagnostic steps
- "KW
- KW
- Troubleshooting procedures for 2.1m cab power windows are now available
- Bogie Crossmember Torque Value Update - Procedure has been updated to correct torque values
Other models of this make
Read also
Sources: public NHTSA data (USA): service bulletins and owner complaints; YouTube: links to videos credited to their authors. Complaints are owner statements not verified by NHTSA, and describe defects rather than crash damage. Data updated 2026-11-04.