Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 1985 Kenworth W900b — 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
0
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
LINE PRESSURE SURGES OCCUR WHEN THE TRANSMISSION IS IN HIGH GEAR LOCKUP DUE TO A PLUMBING ERROR. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: LINE PRESSURE SURGES COULD CAUSE BODILY HARM THROUGH ERRATIC FIRE HOSE DELIVERY ACTION.
Remedy
REWORK PLUMBING TO PREVENT LINE PRESSURE SURGES.
Defect
THE CIRCUIT BREAKERS MAY FAIL AND ALLOW THE CIRCUIT TO OVERHEAT. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: A FIRE COULD OCCUR AS A RESULT OF THE CIRCUIT BREAKER FAILURE.
Remedy
REMOVE CIRCUIT BREAKERS AND REPLACE WITH FUSES.
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 1985 Kenworth W900b. 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.