Volvo Recalls 2012-2015 VNL and VNM Trucks for Brake Handle Defect
Volvo is recalling 2012-2015 VNL and VNM trucks because the trailer hand brake handle may not return to the off position, potentially causing wheel overheating, fire, or tire blowout.
What this means for you
Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 4/5 (Severe).
The hazard poses a serious risk of illness, injury, or structural failure. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.
Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a structural vehicle defect in the braking system that can lead to wheel end fires or tire blowouts, which are significant injury and property damage risks.
Plain-English summary
Volvo Trucks North America is recalling certain model year 2012-2015 VNL and VNM trucks manufactured between May 31, 2011, and December 1, 2014. The recall involves 2,854 vehicles where the trailer hand brake handle may fail to return to the off position due to restriction by the cut-out in the trim panel.
If the brake handle does not return to the off position, the trailer service brakes may drag. This dragging can cause the wheel end to overheat, potentially leading to a wheel end fire or a tire blowout. Both conditions increase the risk of a crash.
Volvo will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the trim panel slot and make it longer as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on October 19, 2015. Owners may contact Volvo customer service at 1-800-258-6586 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.
The recalled product
- Product
- VOLVO VNM, VNL
- Brand
- VOLVO
- Manufacturer
- Volvo Trucks North America
- Category
- Vehicle — Trucks
- Hazard
- Affected units
- 2,854
Is your product affected?
Check your packaging against the codes below. If any of them match, the product is part of this recall.
Model numbers (2)
- VNM
- VNL
Distribution
Distributed nationwide across the United States.
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