Kenworth Recalls 3,800 Trucks Over Seat Belt Concerns

Paccar, the parent company of Kenworth, is issuing a recall for approximately 3,841 Kenworth trucks due to a seat belt issue that could compromise the safety of occupants during accidents. The recall comes in response to concerns raised by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), highlighting the potential risks associated with an additional spacer added to the seat belt tether and buckle connection. This seemingly minor issue has far-reaching implications, as it could result in an unsecured connection, putting drivers and passengers at increased risk of a collision.

The Seat Belt Issue

The heart of the problem lies in an extra spacer that has been added to the joint connecting the seat to the seat belt tether and buckle. This unintended addition leads to an unsecured connection, jeopardizing the ability of the seat belt to restrain occupants during accidents effectively. Furthermore, this spacer places undue stress on the seat structure and the joint itself, potentially compromising the overall safety of the vehicle’s occupants.

Affected Models

The recall encompasses a range of Kenworth truck models spanning different model years. The following are the affected models:

1. Model Year 2020 Kenworth T660 Units (All Gliders): Approximately three units fall under this category, highlighting the importance of addressing this issue, even if it affects only a handful of vehicles.

2. Model Year 2018-2024 Kenworth T800 Trucks: This group comprises approximately 437 trucks that need immediate attention to rectify the seat belt concern.

3. Model Year 2018-2024 Kenworth W900 Trucks: The largest portion of the recall, involving around 3,401 trucks, underscores the significance of addressing the problem promptly.

Recall Resolution

Paccar and Kenworth are committed to addressing this safety issue promptly and efficiently. Dealerships will play a pivotal role in resolving this concern by conducting inspections and taking the necessary actions to correct it. The key steps in resolving the seat belt issue include:

1. Inspection: Dealerships will inspect the affected trucks to identify the presence of the additional spacer and assess the condition of the seat belt tether and buckle connection.

2. Spacer Removal: If the extra spacer is found, it will be promptly removed to ensure that the seat belt tether and buckle connection is secure.

3. Bolt Replacement: In some cases, the bolt connecting the seat to the seat belt tether and buckle may need to be replaced to guarantee the safety and integrity of the connection.

All of these services will be provided free of charge to owners of the affected Kenworth trucks. The recall process reflects a commitment to the safety and well-being of drivers and passengers, emphasizing the importance of swift action in addressing the issue.

Owner Notification

Paccar plans to send out owner notification letters starting on December 25, ensuring that affected vehicle owners are promptly informed about the recall and the necessary steps they should take to address the seat belt issue. Owners need to act on these notifications promptly to safeguard the safety of their trucks’ occupants.

Contact Information

If you own an affected Kenworth truck or have questions about the recall, contact Paccar’s customer service at 1-425-828-5888. When contacting them, make sure to reference recall number 23KWK. Additionally, the NHTSA’s recall number for this specific issue is 23V-717.

The safety of drivers and passengers on the road is paramount, and Kenworth’s proactive response to this seat belt issue is a testament to their commitment to ensuring vehicle safety. By swiftly recalling and addressing the problem, Kenworth and Paccar aim to prevent potential accidents and injuries. If you own one of the affected Kenworth trucks, be sure to act promptly upon receiving the recall notification to have the necessary inspections and repairs conducted, ensuring the continued safety of your vehicle’s occupants on the road.