Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 1979 Kenworth L700 — too few to judge reliability from owner reports alone — but one recall campaign applies to this year, so any used example should have its VIN checked for completed recall work.
0
NHTSA complaints
1
Recalls
0
Investigations
0
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
1 NHTSA recall campaign on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Defect
DUE TO DEFECTIVE INSTALLATION PROCEDURES ON THE INVOLVED VEHICLES, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY OF SLACK ADJUSTER DAMAGE. THIS COULD RESULT IN BRAKE FAILURE ON THE REAR WHEEL END.
Remedy
THE DEALER WILL REPLACE THE SLACK ADJUSTERS ON THE INVOLVED VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE DEALER WILL ALSO REVERSE THE INSTALLATION OF THE MIDLAND SLACK ADJUSTER OR INSTALL A BENDIX SLACK ADJUSTER AS FOUND NECESSARY.
The record is thin — 0 NHTSA complaints — so owner-report data can't strongly confirm reliability either way, though 1 recall should be verified as completed.
Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign affecting the 1979 Kenworth L700. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers; check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm the work was done.
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.