The 2003 Volvo VNM has 3 recalls, both top-rated ones involving fire risk: cracked exhaust gas recirculation pipes on D12D-equipped trucks can vent hot exhaust gases onto the air cleaner and inner fender, and a separate wiring fault can allow an unchecked short circuit to overheat electrical components.
On the D12D engine, the pipes connecting the EGR valves to the cooler can crack or break, directing hot exhaust toward nearby plastic and foam components in the engine bay. The lighting system circuit breakers in certain trucks may not trip quickly enough during a short circuit, leaving wiring exposed to sustained heat that can progress to fire. On the chassis side, trucks with front steer axle air suspension can develop a front wheel wobble as tires wear down, and if left unaddressed, the wobble can damage steering components and cause a sudden loss of vehicle control with little warning to the driver.
At a glance
What can fail
The automatic circuit breakers protecting the lighting system may fail to provide adequate protection against electrical overload or short circuits.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the automatic circuit breakers with fuses to properly protect the lighting system.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
On certain trucks with D12D engines, the exhaust gas recirculation cooler inlet pipes or the pipes connecting the EGR valves to the cooler may crack or break.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and repair the EGR cooler pipes as needed and install a heat shield at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Front wheels may wobble when tires wear on trucks with front steer axle air suspension.
What the fix does
Dealers will repair and replace front vertical shocks on both sides and add a horizontal stabilizer.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
