Kenworth Repair & Maintenance Guide
Founded 1923 · Kirkland, Washington, USA
Brand origin: United States. Origin does not determine factory location or parts compatibility.
Browse Kenworth models and years →Kenworth, a PACCAR brand alongside Peterbilt, builds premium Class 8 trucks marketed under 'The World's Best.' The T680 is the modern aerodynamic flagship; the W900 is the classic long-hood favored by owner-operators.
Popular Kenworth models
Common Kenworth problems
PACCAR MX EGR cooler faults
Same family of issues as the Peterbilt MX-13.
Cab roof fairing crack
T680 roof fairings can develop stress cracks at mount points.
Headlight harness corrosion
Older T800/W900 headlight harnesses corrode at the connector.
Kenworth maintenance tips
- Inspect the air dryer purge valve every 100,000 miles to prevent moisture in the air system.
- Replace fuel/water separator filter every 25,000 miles to protect the high-pressure fuel system.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Kenworth and Peterbilt?
Both are PACCAR brands sharing the MX engine and many chassis components. Styling and dealer network are the main differences.
Is a W900 a good investment for an owner-operator?
The W900 holds its value better than almost any other Class 8 truck due to its classic styling and customization potential — but fuel economy lags modern aero designs by 1–1.5 MPG.