2006 Peterbilt 386 problems

Verdict · NHTSA data

Limited data — recalls on file

NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 2006 Peterbilt 386 — 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.

NHTSA complaints

Recalls

Investigations

Crash-involved

Fires reported

Injuries

Deaths

—

NCAP overall

How does 2006 compare to other 386 years?

386 NHTSA complaints by model year, 2006 highlighted. Red bars are years to avoid.

See all 386 years to avoid →

Does the 2006 Peterbilt 386 have recalls?

2 NHTSA recall campaigns on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.

13V593000OtherNovember 25, 2013 · 561 units

Defect

Paccar Incorporated (Paccar) is recalling certain 2004-2013 Peterbilt 379, 357, 378, 367, 388, 365, 389, 385 and 386 trucks manufactured from April 3, 2003, through October 25, 2013 and equipped with tri-drive rear axles and a tag or pusher axle. The affected vehicles may be missing required information from the certification label, specifically the tag or pusher axle the gross axle weight rating, suitable tire and rim information, and recommended tire pressure information. Without this information, the vehicles do not comply with the requirements of 49 C.F.R. Part 567, "Certification."

Consequence

As a result, the axles may be overloaded or the wrong tires could be installed or the tires could be improperly inflated. All of these issues increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Peterbilt will notify owners and dealers will inspect and replace the certification labels missing the necessary information. The recall is expected to begin in January 2014. Customers can contact Peterbilt at 1-940-591-4000. Peterbilt's number for this campaign is 1113-F.

07V269000Trailer HitchJune 26, 2007 · 9,571 units

Defect

ON CERTAIN TRUCKS, THE REMOVABLE TOW HITCH ,WHEN USED TO TOW OR LIFT A VEHICLE, CAN FAIL DUE TO DEFECTIVE MATERIAL IN THE TOW HITCH.

Consequence

IF THE TOW HITCH ASSEMBLY FAILS WHILE A VEHICLE IS BEING TOWED OR LIFTED, IT MAY CAUSE AN ACCIDENT THAT COULD RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE TOW PIN ASSEMBLY FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 4, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KENWORTH AT 425-828-5440 OR PETERBILT AT 940-591-4201.

2006 Peterbilt 386 — common questions

Is the 2006 Peterbilt 386 reliable?

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.

Does the 2006 Peterbilt 386 have recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recall campaigns affecting the 2006 Peterbilt 386. 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.

How does 2006 compare to other 386 years?

Does the 2006 Peterbilt 386 have recalls?

2006 Peterbilt 386 — common questions

Is the 2006 Peterbilt 386 reliable?

Does the 2006 Peterbilt 386 have recalls?

Related