PACCAR TX-12 / TX-18
AMT • 12-speed • PACCAR
About the PACCAR TX-12 / TX-18
The PACCAR TX-12 is PACCAR's proprietary 12-speed automated manual transmission, used in Peterbilt and Kenworth trucks. PACCAR introduced the TX-12 in 2017 to reduce dependence on Eaton AMTs (the older Peterbilt/Kenworth trucks ran Eaton UltraShift Plus). The TX-12 is engineered for integration with PACCAR MX-13 engines via PACCAR's powertrain control. The TX-18 is the heavy-duty variant with deeper gear coverage for heavy-haul. PACCAR's AMT is the newest entrant in the Class 8 AMT market and has been gaining acceptance with PACCAR loyalists.
Overview
The PACCAR TX-12 is PACCAR's proprietary 12-speed automated manual transmission, used in Peterbilt and Kenworth trucks. PACCAR introduced the TX-12 in 2017 to reduce dependence on Eaton AMTs (the older Peterbilt/Kenworth trucks ran Eaton UltraShift Plus). The TX-12 is engineered for integration with PACCAR MX-13 engines via PACCAR's powertrain control. The TX-18 is the heavy-duty variant with deeper gear coverage for heavy-haul. PACCAR's AMT is the newest entrant in the Class 8 AMT market and has been gaining acceptance with PACCAR loyalists.
Specifications
- Manufacturer
- PACCAR
- Type
- AMT
- Gear count
- 12
- Torque capacity
- 1850 lb-ft
- Truck classes
- Class 8
- Applications
- Long haul, regional, vocational
- Production years
- 2017–present
Design and engineering
12-speed AMT designed in partnership with ZF Friedrichshafen (the German transmission specialist). Computer-controlled clutch actuation. Predictive shifting via PACCAR Connect. Integrated with PACCAR MX-13 engine control.
Generations and updates
Reliability and longevity
TX-12 is relatively new — long-term reliability data is still developing. Early reports are positive, with reliability comparable to Eaton Endurant and Detroit DT12. PACCAR's joint development with ZF brings strong engineering pedigree.
Common problems
Limited long-term data. Some early 2017-2018 units had software shift quality issues addressed by updates. Standard AMT failure modes — clutch actuators, shift solenoids — at typical wear points.
Maintenance schedule
Transmission fluid + filter every 250,000 miles. Same as other AMTs.
Driver experience
Smooth shift quality. Drivers used to Eaton AMTs adapt easily.
Pros and cons
✓ Pros
- • PACCAR-engineered integration with MX-13 engine
- • ZF engineering pedigree
- • Predictive shifting via PACCAR Connect
- • Improving reliability profile
⚠ Cons
- • Newer transmission with less long-term data
- • Only works with PACCAR MX-13/MX-11 engines
- • Smaller installed base than Eaton or Volvo
- • Limited heavy-haul torque vs Mack mDRIVE HD
Resale value impact
Modest — TX-12 trucks are still building used-market history. Resale similar to Eaton Endurant-equipped trucks.