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2013 Volvo VNL

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By Research the Car 4 min read

2013 Volvo VNL

The 2013 Volvo VNL is a heavy-duty truck powered by a Cummins ISX12 450 horsepower engine with a torque rating of 1,650 lb-ft and is paired with an Eaton Fuller 13-speed manual transmission. Other engine and transmission options available are the Cummins ISX15 500 horsepower engine with a torque rating of 1,850 lb-ft and the Volvo D13 475 horsepower engine with a torque rating of 1,650 lb-ft. Both the Cummins ISX15 500 hp and the Volvo D13 475 hp engines are paired with an Eaton Fuller 13-speed manual transmission or a Volvo I-Shift 12-speed automated manual transmission.

Drivers praise the 2013 Volvo VNL for its spacious cabin, comfortable seats, and powerful engine. However, they also report several issues with the vehicle.

Engine

Cummins ISX12 450 hp

  • Turbocharger Failure: The turbocharger can fail prematurely, resulting in a loss of power and increased fuel consumption. The turbocharger needs to be replaced. $2,500 - $4,000+
  • EGR Valve Problems: The EGR valve can become clogged or faulty, leading to reduced engine performance and increased emissions. The EGR valve needs to be cleaned or replaced. $500 - $1,000+

Cummins ISX15 500 hp

  • EGR Cooler Failure: The EGR cooler can leak or fail completely, causing coolant to enter the cylinders and damage the engine. The EGR cooler needs to be replaced. $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Fuel Injector Issues: The fuel injectors can malfunction or become clogged, resulting in poor engine performance and increased fuel consumption. The fuel injectors need to be cleaned or replaced. $500 - $1,000+ per injector

Volvo D13 475 hp

  • DPF and SCR System Problems: The diesel particulate filter (DPF) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system can experience issues, such as clogged filters or faulty sensors. The DPF or SCR system needs to be cleaned or replaced. $1,000 - $2,500+ per component

Transmission

Eaton Fuller 13-Speed Manual

  • Clutch Failure: The clutch can wear out prematurely, resulting in difficulty shifting gears and a loss of power. The clutch needs to be replaced. $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Gearbox Problems: The gearbox can experience issues, such as worn gears or faulty synchronizers. The gearbox needs to be repaired or replaced. $2,000 - $4,000+

Volvo I-Shift 12-Speed Automated Manual

  • Transmission Control Module Issues: The transmission control module (TCM) can malfunction, causing the transmission to shift erratically or fail completely. The TCM needs to be replaced. $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Hydraulic Pump Failure: The hydraulic pump can fail, resulting in a loss of power and the inability to shift gears. The hydraulic pump needs to be replaced. $2,500 - $4,000+

Suspension

  • Front Leaf Spring Failure: The front leaf springs can break or sag, compromising the handling and stability of the truck. The leaf springs need to be replaced. $500 - $1,000+ per spring
  • Shock Absorber Leaks: The shock absorbers can leak or become worn, reducing the ride quality and handling of the truck. The shock absorbers need to be replaced. $200 - $500+ per shock

Electrical

  • Alternator Failure: The alternator can fail, resulting in a loss of electrical power to the truck. The alternator needs to be replaced. $500 - $1,000+
  • Battery Discharge: The battery can discharge prematurely, leaving the truck unable to start. The battery needs to be replaced or the electrical system needs to be checked for a parasitic drain. $200 - $500+

Exterior

  • Headlight Condensation: The headlights can develop condensation over time, impairing visibility during night driving. The headlights need to be replaced. $200 - $500+ per headlight
  • Tail Light Corrosion: The tail lights can experience corrosion, causing them to malfunction or fail completely. The tail lights need to be replaced. $50 - $200+ per taillight

Interior

  • HVAC System Problems: The HVAC system can experience issues, such as a malfunctioning heater or air conditioner. The HVAC system needs to be repaired or replaced. $500 - $1,500+
  • Dashboard Lights Failure: The dashboard lights can malfunction or fail, leaving the driver unable to see important information. The dashboard lights need to be replaced. $100 - $300+
  • Seat Switch Issues: The seat switch can fail, preventing the driver from adjusting the seat. The seat switch needs to be replaced. $100 - $200+

Summary

The 2013 Volvo VNL has several reported issues that can be costly to repair. However, the issues vary in severity, with some being minor inconveniences while others can significantly impact the operation of the truck. Overall, the truck is praised for its comfort and power but has potential reliability concerns that need to be considered.

Volvo, VNL
Volvo VNL 2013
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