2016 Volvo Vn Safety Report

2016 Volvo VN shows driveshaft and transmission concerns, with two recalls for unexpected movement and engine stalls.

12Complaints
2Recalls
55/100Reliability Score
2Crash Reports
Most reported components: Power Train (5)Service Brakes (2)Power Train,Wheels (1)Suspension,Power Train (1)Suspension,Unknown Or Other (1)Structure (1)Steering (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Volvo Vn

The 2016 Volvo VN has a limited safety record based on NHTSA data, with only 12 total complaints, 2 reported crashes, 0 fires, 0 injuries, and 0 deaths. This low complaint volume makes it challenging to form a comprehensive safety picture, but patterns within the existing data are notable. The most common complaint area is the POWER TRAIN, accounting for 5 of the 12 complaints, often specifically related to driveshaft issues causing severe vibrations and shaking. There are also 2 complaints related to SERVICE BRAKES, describing violent shaking during braking and veering. Two recalls have been issued for the 2016 Volvo VN. One recall addresses a POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION issue where the vehicle could unexpectedly move backward even when shifted to neutral, increasing crash risk. The second recall pertains to the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE, where certain Cummins engines could stall without warning, also increasing crash risk. These recalls directly address critical safety concerns that align with the POWER TRAIN complaints, particularly those involving unexpected vehicle behavior or loss of control. NHTSA crash test ratings for the 2016 Volvo VN are not available (N/A) for Overall, Frontal, Side, or Rollover categories, which is common for heavy-duty commercial vehicles. Therefore, crash test performance cannot be factored into this safety analysis. The primary safety concerns for this vehicle, based on the available data, revolve around potential manufacturing defects leading to driveshaft problems, transmission malfunctions, and braking system issues, all of which could severely impact vehicle control and increase crash risk.

Reliability Score

The 2016 Volvo Vn receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.

Known Issues for the 2016 Volvo Vn

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Volvo Vn:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Driveshaft Out Of Phase/Loose
Multiple complaints describe the driveshaft being out of phase or loose from the factory, causing severe shaking, vibrations, and premature wear on components like tires and rear ends. This issue was reported from new vehicles up to 80,000 miles.		 High Common 0-80000 miles
Transmission Malfunction (Unexpected Movement/Clutch Issues)
A recall addresses manual transmissions unexpectedly moving backward. Complaints also mention clutch not releasing in I-shift transmissions, leading to difficulty stopping.		 High Occasional unknown miles
Brake System Vibration/Veering
Complaints describe abnormal vibration in wheels and violent shaking when depressing the brake pedal, with the vehicle independently veering to the left, especially in inclement weather.		 Medium Occasional unknown miles
Engine Stall Without Warning
A recall indicates certain Cummins engines could stall without warning due to an electrical system module issue, increasing the risk of a crash.		 High Rare unknown miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Volvo Vn:

Power Train 41% of complaints

The most frequent complaints relate to the power train, specifically driveshaft issues causing severe vibrations and shaking, and transmission malfunctions.

Service Brakes 16% of complaints

Issues with the service brakes include violent shaking during braking and the vehicle veering to the left.

Suspension 16% of complaints

Complaints mention cab sway and the need for cab bushing and leveling, indicating potential suspension or structural issues.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Volvo Vn

Is the 2016 Volvo VN safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Volvo VN has a low number of complaints (12 total), but these include 2 reported crashes. Key safety concerns arise from multiple complaints about driveshaft issues causing severe vibrations and two recalls addressing critical safety defects: unexpected vehicle movement from the transmission and engine stalls without warning. The lack of NHTSA crash test ratings prevents a full assessment of crashworthiness.

What are common problems for the 2016 Volvo VN?

The most reported issues for the 2016 Volvo VN are related to the POWER TRAIN (5 complaints), primarily involving the driveshaft being out of phase or loose, leading to severe shaking and vibrations. Other common problems include SERVICE BRAKES (2 complaints) causing violent shaking and veering, and SUSPENSION/STRUCTURE issues (2 complaints) like cab sway.

Are there any recalls for the 2016 Volvo VN?

Yes, there are two recalls for the 2016 Volvo VN. One recall (POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION) addresses the risk of the vehicle unexpectedly moving backward even when shifted to neutral. The second recall (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE) concerns certain Cummins engines stalling without warning, increasing crash risk.

What should I look out for when buying a used 2016 Volvo VN?

When considering a used 2016 Volvo VN, pay close attention to any signs of excessive vibration or shaking, especially during acceleration or braking, as this could indicate driveshaft or brake issues. Ensure all recall repairs for the transmission and engine ignition module have been completed. Also, check for any unusual cab movement or suspension problems.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the recurring driveshaft and transmission complaints, along with two safety recalls, thoroughly inspect the power train and braking system, and verify all recall remedies have been performed before purchasing a 2016 Volvo VN.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Volvo Vn

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Volvo Vn. The data includes 12 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 2 reported crashes, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.