The 2003 Volvo VHD has 7 recalls, the most serious involving three separate fire risks and a steering failure that can leave the driver with no directional control.
Two recalls share the same steering defect: a pinch bolt connecting the drag link to the pitman arm may not have been tightened to spec, and if it loosens, the two parts can separate and the truck loses steering entirely. On the fire side, circuit breakers in the lighting system may not protect adequately against a short circuit, allowing wiring and nearby components to overheat and ignite. Separately, cracked or broken exhaust gas recirculation cooler pipes can direct hot exhaust gases onto the air cleaner and inner fender, which can also lead to a fire. Two recalls cover the same bench seat issue: the Isringhausen two-person bench seat is not anchored to the floor firmly enough to meet safety standards, meaning it may shift or break free in a crash. Trucks equipped with a snowplow preparation kit may not meet lighting compliance requirements for visibility on the road.