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ProblemsByVin File / 2016-VOLVO-VNL
2016 · Volvo

Volvo VNL problems

1 safety recall. 12 owner complaints. We mapped every trouble spot before you sign the papers.

0 5 10
Reliability score
8.6 / 10

Above-average reliability for the segment. Few systemic issues on file.

0
Critical
1
Severe
0
Moderate

Top trouble spots 1 category with 3+ complaints

powertrain
6 reports · avg $2,500
severe
Honest Calculator
Should you buy an extended warranty on this 2016 VNL?
We pulled the math: risk-weighted exposure, typical contract cost, and our verdict on whether coverage pencils out for this specific vehicle.
See the calculator ->

What owners are saying recent NHTSA-filed complaints · verbatim

2016 VNL · suspension
MY NEW VOLVO TRUCK SHAKES AND STARTING TO HOP R JUMP 30K MILES HTTPS://YOUTU.BE/EU119G9VYCU
08/28/2016 · NHTSA ODI #10899068.0
2016 VNL · powertrain
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 VOLVO VNL SEMI-TRUCK. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS LOW AND HIGH SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE VIBRATED. A SERIES OF INDEPENDENT MECHANICS CONFIRMED THAT THE DRIVESHAFT WAS LOOSE WITHIN THE TRANSMISSION. VOMAC SALES AND SERVICE MACK (5556 EAST MARGARET DRIVE, TERRE…
08/22/2018 · NHTSA ODI #11121647.0
2016 VNL · suspension
VOLVO AND MACK TRUCKS DRIVE SHAFTS OUT OF PHASE. MAKING IT SHAKE AND EAT UP TIRES AND WEAR TRUCK OUT SHOULD BE RECALLED
07/16/2017 · NHTSA ODI #11005545.0
2016 VNL · powertrain
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 VOLVO VNL630. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE ARRIVED FROM THE MANUFACTURER WITH A REAR DRIVESHAFT THAT WAS NOT CALIBRATED. THE DRIVESHAFT WAS THREE TIMES OVER THE MAXIMUM SPECIFICATIONS WHERE THE TRANSMISSION AND DRIVESHAFT WERE ATTACHED. THE…
06/18/2019 · NHTSA ODI #11220825.0

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Active recalls showing 1 of 1

severe NHTSA 15V026000 22/01/2015

Volvo Trucks North America (Volvo) is recalling certain model year 2015 and 2016 VNX and VNL trucks manufactured from May 20, 2014, through March 6, 2015, equipped with certain Haldex Life Seal Type 30/30 Long Stroke Air Brake Actuators manufactured January 9, 2014, to October 28, 2014

If the diaphragm is not completely attached, there may be internal leakage from the service section past the diaphragm, potentially trapping air pressure in the parking brake section. This air pressure in turn, if not vented, may prevent full release of the actuator unit, and may induce brake drag and may result in overheated wheelend service brakes, increasing the risk of a fire.

Fix: Volvo will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brake actuator and replace, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 20, 2015. Owners may contact Volvo customer service at 1-800-528-6586. Volvo's number for this recall is RVXX1501.

Common questions

Is the 2016 Volvo VNL reliable?

Mostly yes. With a reliability score of 8.6 out of 10 based on 12 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2016 Volvo VNL is generally a sound vehicle. The areas to watch are listed in the top problem section above — most are budget items, not deal-breakers.

What's the most common problem on the 2016 Volvo VNL?

Based on NHTSA records, the most-reported issue is powertrain, with 6 complaints filed. Average repair cost runs about $2,500 at an independent shop.

What's the most expensive thing that goes wrong?

The powertrain is one of the costlier repair items. Average repair cost runs about $2,500 at an independent shop. Catching early warning signs can sometimes extend life by 20–30,000 miles.

How do I check if my Volvo VNL has open recalls?

Paste your VIN into the decoder at the top of this page. We pull live from NHTSA, so you'll see exactly which campaigns apply to your vehicle and whether the dealer has logged the fix. Recall repairs are always free regardless of mileage or warranty status.

Is an extended warranty worth it on a 2016 Volvo VNL?

Math is straightforward: a quality service contract runs $1,800–3,500 over 3 years. With 12 complaints on file and the costliest repair averaging $2,500, one major failure more than pays for it. The catch is reading the contract — many providers exclude wear items and require pre-authorization, so cheaper plans aren't always better value.

Related vehicles

Recall and complaint data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) public records database, last synced 22 hours ago. Editorial commentary written by ProblemsByVin contributors and reviewed by ASE-certified mechanics. We are not affiliated with Volvo. Some links on this page are affiliate links and we may earn a commission if you complete a quote or purchase.
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