Peterbilt is one of the most popular trucks in America. The engineering and design behind a Peterbilt are what make it unique. They are well known for their longevity.
We will give you a better understanding of why truckers, old and new, love them. We dive into how reliable they are.
We break down the significant component’s durabilities, maintenance costs, the best and worst Peterbilt models, and tips on prolonging the life.
Whether you are new to trucking or not, you will find this helpful.
Here’s How Long a Peterbilt Lasts:
A Peterbilt semi truck typically lasts between 750,000 to 1,000,000 miles with proper care and regular maintenance. The engine, gearbox, and clutch are the longest wearing components and can last up to 1,000,000 miles. The shocks are the shortest wearing component and are replaced at 150,000 miles.
Table of Contents
How many Miles can a Peterbilt Last?
Peterbilt is a well-built semi truck, probably one of the best out there. They last without a rebuild of any kind, around 750,000 miles. You can try to get a million miles or more.
How Long do Semi Trucks Last on Average?
A well-maintained semi truck can last over a million miles. It will depend on how it is driven, along with the kind of terrain. Trucks are generally built to go the distance.
Sadly, not every truck will make the million-mile mark. A semi truck with all its original, major components can last around 750,000 miles.
What are the Best and Worst Peterbilt Models?
The 359 Peterbilt was considered the greatest model in the brand. They look great and have stood the test of time and durability when it comes to long hauling.
The distinctive long hood was a favorite among truckers. The truck can fit any combination of transmission and engine, making it limitless in power.
The style is amazing, from high stacks to gorgeous grills. The aluminum body means it is less prone to corrosion. It has a great turning radius, making it a whole lot easier to handle.
The worst Peterbilt happens to be a matter of opinion. Peterbilt only seems to turn out good trucks. To find the worst one would be like asking a child what their favorite candy shop is.
You will find good and bad stories about every truck on the market. But if we were to choose one, it would be the new 579 2021. There have been concerns that the truck was rushed off the assembly line.
Suffering minor issues, like cabinet, handles sticking, ineffective dome light switch, button sticks. AC problems, the steering wheel isn’t aligned with the wheel.
The headlight switch sticks, the radio sometimes doesn’t connect and may require a software update. The cup holders rattle excessively. The curtains do not snap incorrectly.
Bear in mind these issues may not be on all Peterbilt 579 2021 models. But it is safe to say, Peterbilt has not lived up to the quality they are known for on this particular model.
Are Peterbilts Reliable?
The Peterbilt brand is very well known for building reliable trucks. They pride themselves on their quality builds. Peterbilt is a hard name to beat in this category.
The company uses the best parts and most reliable engines on the market. It is worth noting that any truck can go wrong, but Peterbilt rarely has mechanical issues.
Are Peterbilts Expensive to Maintain?
It would depend on the engine of your truck, where you get the work done, and how long it takes. Peterbilt is expensive compared to some other brands.
The word in the truck stops is, Peterbilt is of excellent quality, and with great quality comes a greater price. The trucking industry is an expensive game.
Peterbilt parts and servicing can be on average $50 to $200 more expensive than other trucks. They take longer to maintain, but this could be because they are being done to a quality level.
How Long do the Components Last?
The time a component lasts will typically depend on the frequency of use, and whether proper care during use and regular maintenance has been done.
Some of the larger components such as the engine will lust up to 1,000,000 miles whilst components such as shocks and driveshafts may have to be replaced much sooner.
Let’s take a look at the major parts in a little more detail:
How long does the Body last?
Peterbilt has been using aluminum on the bodies of the trucks for over 70 years now. They use the material to reduce the weight of the cab and save the driver on fuel consumption.
The aluminum benefits from rust and corrosion resistance. Although steel is more durable, Peterbilt saw the unique qualities of alloy many years ago that could last the life of the truck and more.
Provided good care is taken of the body.
How long does a Peterbilt Engine Last?
Peterbilt engines last over a million miles provided they have been well looked after. Some may need to be rebuilt, around the half-million mark. It is common for a semi truck to last.
They are built to take punishment, and they most definitely do that. Peterbilts are tough trucks, well known for going forever.
How long does the Turbo Last?
It again would depend on the turbo itself. How the truck is driven and how well you maintain the turbo. You can get a million miles from a turbo, or you could find you get a lot less.
Regular checks for leaks and the correct boost readings on your gauge will help prolong its life.
How long does the Clutch Last?
Peterbilt clutches can last over a million miles before any problems occur. Driving well and not floating the gears helps a lot. There are some cases of them burning out around 300k miles.
Driving the truck with care and attention will help keep you on the road and out of the repair shops.
How long does the Differentials Last?
The differential in a Peterbilts semi truck is a major component in its operations. The life of one can range significantly depending on the care you put into it.
500k miles plus is how long they should last without the need for repair. Taking it easy on the gas and keeping it well oiled will help to keep the diff fighting in your corner.
Try not to spin the wheels at any point. The diff doesn’t like it. Inspect the breathers regularly, and listen out for any clacking noises.
How long does the Gearbox Last?
Peterbilt gearboxes can last 750,000 miles. The trucks are built to withstand the most vigorous of challenges, part of that is the gearbox. A well-maintained gearbox is a healthy gearbox.
Regularly check the oil level in your gearbox to help lengthen its life.
How long does the Drive Shafts Last?
The driveshaft and its counterparts undergo a lot of stress on a semi truck. The Peterbilt driveshaft will wear out like any other truck and need replacing at anywhere from 75k to 300k miles or more.
The drive shaft undergoes a lot of vibration due to the heavy weight of the truck. Listen out for any unusual sounds.
How long does the Brakes Last?
Semi truck brakes last on average 250k to 300k miles. The lifespan will depend on the use of the brakes along with the weight of the vehicle. A driver can reduce wear on the brakes.
Driving efficiently and safely will slow the wear process down. Keep an eye on your brake wear gauge.
How long does the Shocks Last?
The shocks on a semi truck should be replaced around 150,000 miles much sooner if you have issues with the chassis or leaf springs. A broken leaf spring can move the chassis and break the shocks.
Keep an eye on any leaks from the shocks. While also checking the joining components for wear or damage.
How long does the Tires Last?
Semi truck tires have a shelf life of three to six years. It is recommended to change tires in sets. Semi truck tires have a date stamp on the wall to guide you of their expiry.
They also wear out at different rates depending on where they are placed. A drive tire can last anywhere from 60k miles to well over 450k. A set of steer tires last around 90k to 100k miles.
Trailer tires last around 100k to 120k miles. Then you have all-purpose tires that can be run in any position on the truck and will wear according to that position.
Different brands wear at slower rates. Ask a few fellow trucks what they suggest is a good tire, and you will get a lot of tire brand names thrown your way.
What are the Insurance costs on a Peterbilt?
Truck insurance is an expensive part of trucking. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $600 to $1000 a month. The prices will vary from truck to truck.
Age, experience, and what you will be hauling will also affect the price you pay. It is good to shop around and change providers every year or two to help keep costs lower.
Tips to Prolong the life of your Peterbilt
I think regular maintenance goes without saying to prolong the life of anything. Peterbilt trucks can and do take a beating. But will also need love and care to keep them going.
Daily checks of all tires, airlines and hoses, lights, and suspension systems will help prolong the life of your truck. Rotating your tires and using counteract beads in them will prolong their life.
Checking the turbo for leaks and low or high irregular boosts will help make it last longer. Checking for rust or unusual noises on the diff and driveshaft will help spot early signs of damage.
Changing gears when driving instead of floating will help lengthen the life of the gearbox. Using the clutch in a non-aggressive manner will keep it from dying on you too soon.
Planing the road well in advance will save you on unnecessary tire and brake wear. If you can manage to do all this as possible, you can get more miles from your Peterbilt.
Happy Trucking!
