The Recall Desk
HighNHTSA·20V384000·Announced 2020-01-07

Volvo VNL and VNR Buses: Incorrect Axle Weight Rating Labels

Volvo is recalling certain 2018–2021 VNL and VNR buses with incorrect Gross Axle Weight Rating labels on rear drive axles. Overloading could cause wheel hub failure and increase the risk of a crash.

What this means for you

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: This is a risk-of-harm vehicle recall where no crashes, injuries, or property damage have been reported. The labeling defect creates a potential hub failure and crash risk if axles are overloaded, but the hazard remains theoretical without confirmed incidents.

Plain-English summary

Volvo Trucks North America is recalling certain 2018–2021 Volvo VNL and VNR buses. The Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) stated on the Federal Certification Label for the rear drive axles exceeds the actual weight rating of the wheel hubs. These vehicles do not comply with federal certification requirements (49 CFR Part 567).

If the rear axles are loaded according to the stated GAWR, they may exceed the safe weight limit of the wheel hubs. Over time, overloaded wheel hubs may fail prematurely, increasing the risk of a crash.

Approximately 89 vehicles are affected. Volvo will notify owners and provide corrected replacement labels at no cost. The recall began August 18, 2020. Owners can contact Volvo customer service at 1-800-528-6586 or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 for additional information.

The recalled product

Product
2018 VOLVO VNL
Brand
VOLVO
Manufacturer
Volvo Trucks North America
Category
Vehicle — Commercial Bus
Hazard
  • labeling-defect
  • hub-failure-risk
  • crash-risk
Affected units
89

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)

  • VNL
  • VNR

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

Related recalls

Same brand · VOLVO

Same category