The 2012 Volvo VAH has 4 recalls, the most serious being a steering drag link where a damaged protective boot allows corrosion to eat through the ball socket joint, which can separate and cause a complete loss of steering control.
A second recall affects the fifth wheel coupling used to connect the tractor to a trailer. Cumulative wear to the locking mechanism can prevent it from fully engaging, allowing the trailer to detach unexpectedly while the truck is in motion. On certain VAH trucks modified as auto-haulers with upward-facing exhaust diffusers, exhaust heat can transfer into the roof of the cab or reach the vehicles loaded above it, creating a fire risk. The remaining recall covers tires that can fail prematurely under demanding conditions such as high speeds, heavy loads, or high road surface temperatures, raising the risk of a loss of vehicle control.
At a glance
What can fail
The fifth wheel connector's locking mechanism may fail or not engage properly due to cumulative damage, potentially allowing trailer separation.
What the fix does
Fontaine dealers will replace the fifth wheel connector with an Ultra NT model at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
The drag link ball socket boot can be damaged by the angle of the ball stud. A damaged boot lets contaminants enter and corrode the ball socket.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the drag link with one that has improved geometry to prevent boot damage.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Tires may fail prematurely when the truck operates at high speeds, carries heavy loads, or experiences high road temperatures.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the tires and adjust the road speed limiter at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Heat from the upward-facing exhaust diffuser may transfer to the truck cab roof and vehicles loaded above it.
What the fix does
The diffuser will be replaced with a redesigned diffuser that prevents heat transfer.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
