2016 Volvo Vnl Safety Report

The 2016 Volvo VNL presents a mixed safety picture, primarily due to a significant number of recalls addressing critical components, despite a relatively low number of overall NHTSA complaints. With only 12 total complaints, including 2 crashes and no reported injuries or deaths, the direct consumer-reported incident rate is low. However, the vehicle has been subject to 6 recalls, which is a high number for a single model year, indicating several design or manufacturing flaws identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA. These recalls cover severe issues such as potential loss of steering due to tie rod loosening or steering shaft separation, engine stalling from fuel line bursts, and compromised braking performance due to incorrect software or parking brake diaphragm issues. The most frequently reported complaint component is POWER TRAIN (5 complaints), followed by SERVICE BRAKES (2 complaints), with several complaints specifically mentioning driveshaft issues leading to severe vibrations and potential damage. Common complaint patterns revolve around the power train, specifically driveshaft calibration and phasing issues, leading to severe vibrations, shaking, and premature wear. Several complaints describe the vehicle 'shaking' or 'hopping' and mention driveshaft problems from the factory, with one complaint stating the driveshaft was "three times over the maximum specifications." This suggests a systemic manufacturing or assembly defect. Service brakes also appear as a concern, with complaints detailing abnormal vibrations during braking and the vehicle veering to the left, especially in inclement weather. These issues, while not numerous in complaints, align with the critical nature of the recalls. The recall history is extensive and concerning. Key recalls include potential complete loss of steering due to issues with Dana Spicer steer axles' castellated nuts or steering shaft separation, both increasing crash risk. Another recall addresses engine stalling and fuel leaks from bursting fuel lines in Cummins ISX15 diesel engines. Brake system contamination due to incorrect software and parking brake diaphragm issues also posed crash risks. Furthermore, a recall for front suspension ball joint failure could lead to a complete loss of steering. These recalls indicate that while direct crash and injury reports are low, the vehicle had several inherent safety defects that, if unaddressed, could lead to severe outcomes. NHTSA crash test ratings are not available for the 2016 Volvo VNL, which is common for heavy-duty commercial vehicles. Therefore, crash test performance cannot be used to assess its safety. The overall safety picture is dominated by the proactive (or reactive) recalls addressing fundamental safety systems, suggesting that while the reported incident rate is low, the potential for serious safety failures was significant without the recall interventions. Buyers should ensure all 6 recalls have been completed.

Our recommendation: Given the high number of critical safety recalls, ensure all 6 recalls have been completed and thoroughly inspect for driveshaft-related vibration issues before purchasing a 2016 Volvo VNL.