If you’re running a newer Volvo VNL, you’ll want to check this before your next stop.
Volvo Trucks North America has issued a recall on nearly 1,000 trucks after identifying a parking brake issue that could increase the risk of a rollaway.
Which Trucks Are Affected
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the recall covers about 800 model year 2024–27 Volvo VNL trucks. These trucks share several specific characteristics:
- 6×4 axle configurations
- Electronic suspension systems
- No auxiliary parking brakes installed
If your VNL matches that setup, it may be subject to this recall.
Why the Parking Brake May Not Hold
A recall acknowledgement document explains that when an affected truck is placed in “weight bias mode,” there may not be enough weight on the axle that carries the parking brake. When that happens, braking force can be reduced.
That lack of holding power creates a rollaway risk, especially when parked on uneven ground or grades.
There are no warning indicators for this condition. Volvo Trucks has stated that all 800 trucks included in the recall are affected.
No Crashes or Injuries Reported
So far, there have been:
- No warranty claims
- No field reports
- No accidents
- No injuries
The issue was first brought to Volvo’s attention last November after a truck roll incident. Following three safety evaluation committee reviews, the company determined in February that a product safety defect exists.
What Volvo Will Do to Fix It
Volvo Trucks will correct the issue by replacing the brake chambers on affected trucks with versions that include auxiliary parking brakes.
- Repairs will be completed at no cost to owners
- Notification letters will be mailed in April
If you operate one of these trucks, this is not something you’ll want to put off once your notice arrives.
Who to Contact
For more information, drivers and fleet owners can contact Volvo Trucks customer service at 800-528-6586 and reference recall number RVXX2601.
NHTSA’s recall number is 26V076.
Not Related to Another Parking Brake Recall
Volvo emphasized that this recall is not connected to a separate parking brake issue announced last year involving another manufacturer.
International previously recalled more than 11,000 model year 2023–26 LT and RH trucks. In that case, the problem involved an auto neutral function that may not recognize when the parking brake is applied.
As explained previously:
“The auto neutral function on some International trucks may not know that the parking brake has been applied. Consequently, the transmission may not shift into neutral. If the transmission remains in gear, the truck may move unexpectedly.”
What Drivers Should Do Now
If you run a Volvo VNL from the affected model years, keep an eye on your mail and be mindful of parking conditions until the repair is completed. Parking brake performance is not something you want to assume is working exactly as intended.
This recall is a reminder that even newer equipment can have hidden issues that only show up under specific operating modes.
