2015 Volvo VHD

Introduction

The 2015 Volvo VHD is a heavy-duty commercial truck that Volvo has produced since 2001. It is available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The VHD has a gross vehicle weight rating of up to 80,000 pounds and is well-suited for various applications, including long-haul trucking, construction, and refuse removal.

The VHD is popular for its powerful engines, comfortable interior, and advanced safety features. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of problems.

Engine

Volvo D11

• Engine Oil Leaks: Oil leaks can occur from the oil pan, valve covers, or rear main seal. Symptoms include low oil levels, oil spots under the vehicle, and visible oil leaks. Fix: Replace the leaking components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+

Volvo D13

• Cylinder Head Gasket Failure: The cylinder head gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil to mix. Symptoms include white smoke from the exhaust, overheating, and loss of power. Fix: Replace the cylinder head gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
• EGR Cooler Failure: The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler can fail, causing a loss of power and increased emissions. Symptoms include decreased engine performance, black smoke from the exhaust, and illuminated check engine light. Fix: Replace the EGR cooler. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Turbocharger Failure: The turbocharger can fail, resulting in a loss of power and increased exhaust gas temperatures. Symptoms include decreased engine performance, black smoke from the exhaust, and illuminated check engine light. Fix: Replace the turbocharger. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

Transmission

Volvo I-Shift

• Transmission Fluid Leaks: Transmission fluid leaks can occur from the transmission pan, seals, or lines. Symptoms include low transmission fluid levels and visible fluid leaks. Fix: Replace the leaking components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
• Shifting Problems: The transmission may experience shifting problems, such as difficulty shifting gears or slipping out of gear. Symptoms include rough shifting, delayed shifts, or illuminated check engine light. Fix: Repair or replace the transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000+

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Breakage: The leaf springs can break, leading to a loss of ride height and handling problems. Symptoms include sagging rear end, uneven tire wear, and noise from the suspension. Fix: Replace the broken leaf springs. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
• Airbag Leaks: The air bags in the suspension system can develop leaks, causing the truck to sag. Symptoms include uneven ride height and decreased handling. Fix: Replace the leaking airbags. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+

Electrical

• Battery Drain: The battery can drain prematurely, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle. Symptoms include dead battery, slow cranking, and illuminated warning lights. Fix: Diagnose and repair the source of the drain. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
• Electrical Wiring Issues: Electrical wiring problems can occur, causing various electrical components to malfunction. Symptoms include intermittent electrical problems, flickering lights, and failed electrical components. Fix: Diagnose and repair the faulty wiring. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+

Exterior

• Hood Hinge Failure: The hood hinges can fail, causing the hood to not stay open or close properly. Symptoms include difficulty opening or closing the hood and rattling noises. Fix: Replace the failed hinges. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Door Lock Problems: The door locks may malfunction, making it difficult to open or close the doors. Symptoms include difficulty locking or unlocking the doors, and illuminated warning lights. Fix: Repair or replace the door lock actuators. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Interior

• Climate Control Issues: The climate control system may malfunction, causing problems with heating, cooling, or defrosting. Symptoms include poor heating or cooling performance, and illuminated warning lights. Fix: Diagnose and repair the faulty components in the climate control system. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
• Instrument Cluster Malfunctions: The instrument cluster may experience malfunctions, causing gauges and indicators to malfunction. Symptoms include flickering gauges, inaccurate readings, and illuminated warning lights. Fix: Repair or replace the instrument cluster. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

Summary

The 2015 Volvo VHD is a generally reliable truck, but it is not without its problems. Some of the more common issues reported by owners include engine oil leaks, cylinder head gasket failure, EGR cooler failure, transmission fluid leaks, and shifting problems. The severity of these issues can range from minor annoyances to major mechanical failures. The cost of repairs can also vary widely depending on the issue and the severity of the failure. Overall, the VHD is a capable truck, but owners should be aware of the potential issues before purchasing one.