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2015 Volvo VNL 630

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By Research the Car 4 min read

Introduction: The 2015 Volvo VNL 630 is a Class 8 heavy-duty truck offering a comfortable and efficient driving experience. It comes standard with a 12.8-liter DD13 engine, delivering 455 horsepower and 1,650 lb-ft of torque. Optional powertrain options include the 16-liter DD16 engine (500-605 hp) and various Allison and Eaton transmissions. Drivers appreciate the VNL 630’s spacious and well-equipped interior, panoramic visibility, and fuel-efficient performance. However, some areas for improvement have been identified based on user feedback.

Engine DD13 Diesel

  • EGR Cooler Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler can develop cracks or leaks, leading to coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, and reduced engine performance.
    • Solution: Replacing the EGR cooler is typically required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Turbocharger Issues:
    • Description/Symptoms: The turbocharger may experience bearing failures or boost leaks, resulting in decreased engine power, excessive smoke, and oil loss.
    • Solution: Replacing or repairing the turbocharger is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

DD16 Diesel

  • Fuel Injector Failures:
    • Description/Symptoms: The fuel injectors can become clogged or fail, causing poor combustion, engine misfires, and black smoke from the exhaust.
    • Solution: Replacing the affected fuel injectors is the recommended solution.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ per injector
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission Allison 4500 Series Automatic

  • Shifting Problems:
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may experience slipping, delayed shifts, or rough shifting, especially when towing or hauling heavy loads.
    • Solution: Diagnosing the issue requires checking transmission fluid levels, solenoid valves, and other components. Repairs or replacements may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $5,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Lockup Issues:
    • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter may fail to lock up properly, leading to increased fuel consumption, engine noise, and transmission slippage.
    • Solution: Replacing the torque converter is typically needed.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Eaton 10-Speed Manual

  • Clutch Issues:
    • Description/Symptoms: The clutch may slip or chatter, making it difficult to shift gears or causing transmission noise.
    • Solution: Replacing the clutch assembly usually resolves the issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission Leaks:
    • Description/Symptoms: Seals or gaskets in the transmission may fail, leading to leaks of transmission fluid. This can cause low fluid levels and damage to transmission components.
    • Solution: Locating and replacing the leaking seal or gasket is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Leaf Spring Breakage:
    • Description/Symptoms: Leaf springs may crack or break, especially when the vehicle is carrying heavy loads or encounters rough terrain. The truck will sag and handle poorly.
    • Solution: Replacing the damaged leaf springs is required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per axle
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Air Suspension Leaks:
    • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system may develop leaks in the air lines, bags, or valves, resulting in uneven ride height and poor handling.
    • Solution: Inspecting and replacing the leaking components is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Battery Failures:
    • Description/Symptoms: The batteries may discharge quickly or fail to hold a charge, causing the truck to experience electrical problems or difficulty starting.
    • Solution: Replacing the affected batteries is the most common solution.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Wiring Harness Issues:
    • Description/Symptoms: Electrical wires may become damaged or loose, causing intermittent electrical problems, such as dashboard light malfunctions or power loss to certain components.
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing the damaged wiring harness is typically required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Windshield Wiper Motor Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: The windshield wiper motor may fail, causing the wipers to stop working or operate intermittently.
    • Solution: Replacing the wiper motor is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Headlight Condensation:
    • Description/Symptoms: Moisture may accumulate inside the headlight assemblies, causing condensation and impairing visibility.
    • Solution: Sealing the headlight housing or replacing the damaged seal is typically required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Dashboard Light Malfunctions:
    • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard lights may malfunction or become dim, making it difficult to read important information.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty lights or repairing the electrical connection is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Climate Control Issues:
    • Description/Symptoms: The climate control system may not function properly, such as failing to heat or cool effectively.
    • Solution: Diagnosing the issue requires checking the thermostat, sensors, and other components. Repairs or replacements may be needed.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Seating Discomfort:
    • Description/Symptoms: The driver’s seat may not provide sufficient support or comfort, causing fatigue and back pain on long trips.
    • Solution: Replacing the seat with a more supportive or ergonomic option may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary Overall, the 2015 Volvo VNL 630 is a reliable and efficient heavy-duty truck. However, like any vehicle, it has some specific issues that owners should be aware of. The most common issues include EGR cooler failure, turbocharger problems, and transmission shifting difficulties. Other areas that may require attention include suspension components, electrical wiring, and dashboard light malfunctions. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but most are relatively straightforward to diagnose and repair. By addressing these issues promptly, owners can maintain the performance and longevity of their VNL 630 trucks.

Volvo, VNL 630
Volvo VNL 630 2015
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