The 2020 Peterbilt 520 has 12 safety recalls on file with NHTSA.
Owners have filed 3 complaints with NHTSA.
The most-reported problem area is Service Brakes (3 reports).
2020 Peterbilt 520 recalls
Suspension Bracket Can Detach, Risking Loss of Control
Certain refuse trucks with Haulmaax/EX suspensions have suspension tracking rod brackets that may fail and detach from the forward drive axle.
Steering Arm Bolts May Fail, Causing Loss of Steering
Fasteners that attach the steering arm to the steering knuckle on the Dana D-Series front axle may fail.
Rear brakes may release too slowly, raising crash risk
A quick release valve on the rear brake signal hose may be missing.
Fuel leak from rail assembly can cause fire
A sealing washer in the high-pressure fuel rail assembly may not seat correctly in the pilot bore holes.
Steering column may crack, risking loss of steering control
Certain right-hand, stand-up drive Peterbilt 320 and 520 trucks may have a steering column support structure that can crack or break.
Stability Control Hose May Be Misconnected, Risking Loss of Control
On certain 2020 and 2021 Peterbilt 520 trucks, the stability control brake relay may have the Spring Brake Modulating valve or the lift axle hose connected incorrectly.
Loose Suspension Bolts Can Detach and Create Road Hazards
Some trucks have lower rear pivot bolts on the steerable lift axle suspension that are too short.
Loose Steering Bracket Bolts Could Cause Steering Lockup
The steering assist cylinder bracket may have been secured with incorrect bolts.
Delayed Brake Release May Raise Crash Risk
Certain Peterbilt 320 and 520 trucks from model years 2016 through 2019 have dual foot valves and a liftable tag or tri-drive rear axle, and the rear brake signal hose may be missing a quick release valve.
Rear axle shaft may fracture, risking detached driveline
Certain heavy-duty trucks built in 2020 may have rear axle output shafts that were not heat treated properly during manufacturing.
Rear Turn Signals May Light With Brake Lights
Certain Peterbilt 320 and 520 trucks from model years 1990 through 1993 have amber rear turn signals that may also light up when the brakes are applied.
Overheating Wiring Can Cause Sudden Engine Shutdown
Some Peterbilt 520 trucks from model years 2017 through 2020 have undersized wiring in the connector between the cab power harness and the power distribution center.
Most common 2020 Peterbilt 520 problems
Problem areas named in the 3 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.
| Problem area | Reports |
|---|---|
| Service Brakes | 3 |
What owners report
This one was taken in after the first one also for inspection by dealer. Issue wasn't as severe due to lower mileage and use. I believe the pads were just changed as a precaution, I don't believe they had started to separate.
After issue with first truck dealership asked to bring in others to be inspected and found same issue with them. Front brake pads were separating from backing. This truck had less mileage so damage not as severe.
Truck was brought in because driver heard a grinding noise. Mechanic inspected and found that the front disc brake pads and separated from the backing. Truck was thought to still be under warranty and was then taken to dealership for repairs.
2020 Peterbilt 520 questions
Does the 2020 Peterbilt 520 have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 12 safety recalls for the 2020 Peterbilt 520: Suspension Bracket Can Detach, Risking Loss of Control; Steering Arm Bolts May Fail, Causing Loss of Steering; Rear brakes may release too slowly, raising crash risk; Fuel leak from rail assembly can cause fire; Steering column may crack, risking loss of steering control. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Peterbilt 520?
Based on 3 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Service Brakes (3).
How do I check if a recall on my 2020 Peterbilt 520 has been fixed?
Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.