repaired · 2026 Q3
Electrical system: software
Risk. Safety systems that depend on the ECU (Automatic Traction Control, ABS, Electronic Stability Control, Active Cruise Control, and Collison Mitigation System)…
2021 Peterbilt 579Problems, recalls & complaints
NHTSA has logged 1 owner complaint about the 2021 Peterbilt 579, most often about the electrical system. It is covered by 9 safety recalls, and for recall 21V00N000 the manufacturer reports only 34% of affected cars repaired.
Source: NHTSA complaints, recalls, investigations and manufacturer recall reports, through December 9, 2024. Updated daily.
Complaints by system
Where the 2021 Peterbilt 579 has problems
1 complaint grouped by the system owners reported.
1Electrical system
| System | Complaints | Crash, fire or injury |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical system | 1 | 0 |
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. Complaints are submitted by the public and are not verified by NHTSA.
9 recalls
2021 Peterbilt 579 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 · 2026 Q3
Lever and linkage: column shift
Risk. A loss of communication between the gear shifter and the transmission may result in the vehicle becoming disabled after coming to a stop, increasing the risk…
repaired · 2025 Q3
Storage: tank assembly
Risk. A punctured fuel tank can leak fuel, increasing the risk of a fire.
repaired · 2025 Q2
Electrical system
Risk. A damaged alternator cable increases the risk of a fire.
Show 5 more recalls
repaired · 2024 Q3
Electrical system: wiring
Risk. The operator may be unaware of a system malfunction or the presence of excessive methane levels, increasing the risk of injury or fire.
repaired · 2023 Q4
Electrical system: software
Risk. Unintended vehicle movement can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
repaired · 2023 Q4
Foundation components: hoses, lines/piping, and fittings
Risk. If loss of the rear brake signal occurs, the vehicle could experience reduced rear braking capability or loss of brakes to the rear axle(s), increasing the…
repaired · 2023 Q2
Service brakes, air
Risk. The pressure plate may tear the diaphragm, causing a loss of air pressure and increasing the risk of a crash.
repaired · 2022 Q4
Engine
Risk. A detached flywheel can cause loss of drive power, increasing 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
2021 vs. every other 579 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 579 median. How we score
'06'07'08'09'10'11'12'13'14'15'16'17'18'19'20'21'22'23'24'25'26'27
- Avoid
- Caution
- Solid
- Best
- Not rated
In owners' words
What 579 owners report
Recent electrical system complaints filed with NHTSA, shortened. Personal details are removed.
I was driving on a freeway when suddenly my truck lost all power. I managed to coast to a safe spot to park. I immediately opened hood and started troubleshooting. Left key on so I'd know if power came back on. After about 10 minutes of moving wires gently I found the issue. A power wire plug…
Own a 2021 579?
Decode your VIN to see the recalls for your exact car, then confirm open recalls with NHTSA.