The 2013 Volvo VNM has 6 recalls, the most serious involving wheel rims that can fail and separate from the truck, potentially striking other vehicles, objects, or bystanders, and a front steer axle that can fracture and cause a complete loss of steering control.
Several recalls create fire or blowout risks. The trailer hand brake handle can get stuck in the on position due to a cutout in the trim panel, causing the trailer brakes to drag, overheat the wheel end, and potentially start a fire or blow a tire. On the engine side, excessive crankcase pressure can pop a vent tube elbow loose and spray engine oil onto hot surfaces, raising the risk of an engine fire. A separate fifth wheel concern involves the Fontaine Ultra LT locking mechanism, which can wear to the point where it no longer properly engages, allowing a loaded trailer to detach from the tractor unexpectedly. On the brake side, incorrect software controlling the air dryer can let oil and water contaminate the air brake system, reducing braking performance.
At a glance
What can fail
The electronic air dryer's software may malfunction, allowing oil and water to contaminate the brake system.
What the fix does
Dealers will reprogram the vehicle control module and replace the air dryer filter at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
Certain front steer axles may have undergone incorrect heat treatment, potentially weakening the axle material and risking failure.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect axles using serial numbers and replace affected ones at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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.
At a glance
What can fail
The trailer hand brake handle may get stuck and not return to the off position because the trim panel cutout restricts its movement.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and lengthen the trim panel slot as needed to allow the brake handle to move freely.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
High pressure inside the engine crankcase can cause the vent tube elbow to loosen or separate from the breather, potentially allowing engine oil to contact hot engine surfaces.
What the fix does
The vent tube elbow will be secured, and engine software will be updated to reduce crankcase pressure during misfires. Repairs are free.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Certain wheel rims were manufactured incorrectly and may fail. A rim can separate from the vehicle, causing loss of control and crash risk, while the detached wheel could hit other vehicles, objects, or people.
What the fix does
Your dealer will inspect the wheel rims and replace them if necessary.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
