The 2023 Volvo VN has 11 recalls, the most serious involving multiple issues that can cause the engine to keep running at speed or stall unexpectedly, and two separate steering defects that can result in total loss of steering control.
The throttle and engine concerns cover several scenarios: if the accelerator pedal position sensor disconnects, the engine may not return to idle, leaving the truck running at an elevated speed. A separate issue involving interrupted vehicle network communications can produce unintended acceleration when the truck is in limp mode. The engine control module can also develop an internal short circuit and stall the engine without warning, and an idler gear that detaches from the engine can cause a sudden stall as well. On the steering side, fasteners securing the steering gear may not be properly tightened, and on certain tractor trailers the steering gear itself may have been assembled incorrectly and can fracture, either way leaving the driver without steering.
On the safety systems side, certain trucks equipped with Bendix EC80 control units can lose or reduce the function of anti-lock brakes, traction control, electronic stability control, and collision mitigation systems due to electrical interference. The passenger side bench seat may not be adequately secured to the floor and can shift in a crash. On sleeper models, cabinet bolts installed without washers can allow the cabinets to break free in a crash. A software issue can also cause the hazard light switch backlight to go dark, making the switch hard to find in low-light conditions.