repaired · 2024 Q4
Suspension: multiple axle
Risk. An unstable axle can decrease vehicle stability and control, increasing the risk of a crash.
2020 Peterbilt 520Problems, recalls & complaints
NHTSA has logged 3 owner complaints about the 2020 Peterbilt 520, most often about the service brakes. It is covered by 12 safety recalls, and for recall 19V-452 the manufacturer reports only 15% of affected cars repaired.
Source: NHTSA complaints, recalls, investigations and manufacturer recall reports, through December 16, 2022. Updated daily.
Complaints by system
Where the 2020 Peterbilt 520 has problems
3 complaints grouped by the system owners reported.
3Service brakes
| System | Complaints | Crash, fire or injury |
|---|---|---|
| Service brakes | 3 | 0 |
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. Complaints are submitted by the public and are not verified by NHTSA.
12 recalls
2020 Peterbilt 520 recalls and how many were fixed
Each ring shows the share of affected cars repaired, from the manufacturer’s latest quarterly report to NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at authorized dealers.
repaired · 2024 Q3
Steering: critical fasteners
Risk. Fastener failure can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
repaired · 2023 Q3
Service brakes, air
Risk. A missing quick release valve cannot ensure correct rear brake release timing, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
repaired · 2023 Q2
Fuel injection system: fuel rail
Risk. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Show 8 more recalls
repaired · 2023 Q2
Steering: column
Risk. If the steering column loosens from the mounting structure, steering control can become affected, increasing the risk of a crash.
repaired · 2022 Q4
Electronic stability control (ESC)
Risk. A stability control event meant to only actuate the ABS controlled wheel ends could actuate lift axle brakes or modulate park brake chambers and could possibly…
repaired · 2022 Q2
Power train: axle assembly
Risk. The short screws can cause the hardware to separate from the suspension system and become road hazards, increasing the risk of a crash and/or injury.
repaired · 2022 Q2
Steering: electric power assist system
Risk. Loose bolts may cause the bracket to flex or break, potentially damaging adjacent components or locking up the steering, increasing the risk of crash.
repaired · 2021 Q4
Service brakes, air
Risk. A delayed brake release may increase the risk of crash.
repaired · 2021 Q2
Axle assembly: axle shaft
Risk. If the rear axle output shaft fractures, the shaft or interaxle driveline could detach and become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
repaired · 2020 Q4
Exterior lighting: tail lights
Risk. Rear Turn signals that illuminate at the same time as the brake lights may create confusion and impair the effectiveness of the brake lights, increasing the…
repaired · 2020 Q4
Electrical system
Risk. An unexpected engine shut down can increase the risk of a crash.
Recalls apply to specific cars. To see whether a recall is still open on yours, enter the 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or with Peterbilt.
Best & worst years
2020 vs. every other 520 year
Bars show complaints per model year. Colors show the CarFlaw verdict: complaints weighted for crashes, fires and injuries, adjusted for years on the road and compared with the 520 median. How we score
'90'91'92'93'94'95'96'97'98'99'00'01'02'03'04'05'06'07'08'09'10'11'12'13'14'15'16'17'18'19'20'21'22'23'24'25'26
- Avoid
- Caution
- Solid
- Best
- Not rated
In owners' words
What 520 owners report
Recent service brakes complaints filed with NHTSA, shortened. Personal details are removed.
This one was taken in after the first one also for inspection by dealer. Issue wasn't as severe due to lower mileage and use. I believe the pads were just changed as a precaution, I don't believe they had started to separate.
After issue with first truck dealership asked to bring in others to be inspected and found same issue with them. Front brake pads were separating from backing. This truck had less mileage so damage not as severe.
Truck was brought in because driver heard a grinding noise. Mechanic inspected and found that the front disc brake pads and separated from the backing. Truck was thought to still be under warranty and was then taken to dealership for repairs.
Own a 2020 520?
Decode your VIN to see the recalls for your exact car, then confirm open recalls with NHTSA.