Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 1979 Kenworth Coe Series — too few to judge reliability from owner reports alone — but 2 recall campaigns apply to this year, so any used example should have its VIN checked for completed recall work.
0
NHTSA complaints
2
Recalls
1
Investigations
0
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
2 NHTSA recall campaigns on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Defect
FRONT ALUMINUM STEERING AXLE HUBS WERE INCORRECTLY HEATED DURING STUD AND BEARING CUP PRESSING OPERATIONS. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: DUE TO THE INCORRECT HEAT TREATMENT THE HUBS MAY CRACK AND FAIL UNDER CERTAIN OPERATING CONDITIONS. FAILURE COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF WHEEL AND VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy
ALL RECALLED HUBS WILL BE INSPECTED AND TESTED FOR HARDNESS SPECIFICATIONS. IF THEY FAIL TO MEET THE REQUIREMENTS, THEY WILL BE REPLACED.
Defect
STEERING ARMS ON INVOLVED VEHICLES, IDENTIFIED BY THE HEAT CODE "E14", MAY HAVE RECEIVED IMPROPER HEAT TREATMENT. THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE THE STEERING ARM TO CRACK OR BREAK.
Remedy
DEALER WILL REPLACE ALL STEERING ARMS IDENTIFIED BY THE "E14" HEAT CODE WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.
The record is thin — 0 NHTSA complaints — so owner-report data can't strongly confirm reliability either way, though 2 recalls should be verified as completed.
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recall campaigns affecting the 1979 Kenworth Coe Series. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers; check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm the work was done.
NHTSA opened one investigation into this model year; all are now closed.
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.