2018 Volvo VNL 300
Introduction
The 2018 Volvo VNL 300 is a heavy-duty truck known for its performance and safety features. It comes with three engine options: a 13-liter D13 with 405 horsepower and 1,450 lb-ft of torque, a 13-liter D13 with 455 horsepower and 1,550 lb-ft of torque, and a 16-liter D16 with 600 horsepower and 2,050 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include an 12-speed I-Shift AMT and a 13-speed I-Shift AMT.
Drivers appreciate the VNL 300’s comfortable cabin, fuel efficiency, and advanced safety technologies. However, some owners have reported specific issues with various components of the vehicle.
Engine
13-liter D13 (405 horsepower)
- Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Issues with the EGR valve can lead to reduced engine performance, increased emissions, and the check engine light coming on.
- Solution: Replacement of the EGR valve and associated components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
- Recalls: None Found
13-liter D13 (455 horsepower)
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Problems with the turbocharger can result in reduced engine power, black smoke from the exhaust, and increased fuel consumption.
- Solution: Turbocharger replacement and additional parts as necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
16-liter D16 (600 horsepower)
- Injector Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Faulty injectors can cause rough idling, poor fuel economy, and black smoke from the exhaust.
- Solution: Replacement of the affected injectors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500 per injector
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
12-speed I-Shift AMT
- Shifting Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission may experience difficulty shifting gears, resulting in jerks or slipping.
- Solution: Remapping or replacing the transmission control module (TCM).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
13-speed I-Shift AMT
- Clutch Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive wear on the clutch can lead to slippage, vibrations, and difficulty engaging gears.
- Solution: Clutch replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Leaks from the air suspension system can cause suspension problems, uneven ride height, and reduced braking effectiveness.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the air suspension components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain, even when the vehicle is off, can lead to a dead battery.
- Solution: Tracing the source of the drain and replacing any faulty components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Headlight Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: Headlights may not illuminate properly or may fail completely.
- Solution: Replacement of headlight bulbs or electronic control modules.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
- Recalls: Recall #19V-107 (Affects certain 2018-2022 Volvo VNL 300 models with defective headlight control modules)
Interior
- Cruise Control Switch Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The cruise control switch may become unresponsive or intermittently fail.
- Solution: Replacement of the cruise control switch.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: Recall #19V-486 (Affects certain 2018-2021 Volvo VNL models with defective cruise control switches)
Summary
The 2018 Volvo VNL 300 has received positive feedback for its performance and features. However, some owners have reported issues with specific components, such as the EGR valve, turbocharger, and injectors in the engine; shifting problems and clutch wear in the transmission; battery drain in the electrical system; and headlight malfunctions and cruise control switch failure. While the severity of these issues varies, some can be costly to fix. Potential buyers and owners should be aware of these possible concerns before making a decision or seeking repairs.