2018 Volvo VNL 740
2018 Volvo VNL 740
Overview
The 2018 Volvo VNL 740 is a heavy-duty commercial truck known for its robust construction and driver comfort, designed for long-haul operations. Volvo’s commitment to quality engineering is generally reflected in its reliability, with many owners reporting consistent performance. However, like any complex vehicle, specific components can experience issues over time. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns, excluding routine maintenance and normal wear and tear, to provide a clear picture of potential problem areas and their associated costs for the 2018 model year. Understanding these potential issues can aid in proactive maintenance and cost management for fleet operators.
Engine
Volvo D11 (9.4L Diesel)
EGR Cooler Leaks
- Symptoms: Coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, overheating, reduced engine power.
- Solution: Replacement of the EGR cooler assembly.
- Cost: $1,200 - $2,500
Turbocharger Failure
- Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke, whistling noises, check engine light.
- Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
- Cost: $2,000 - $4,000
Volvo D13 (12.8L Diesel)
Fuel Injector Issues
- Symptoms: Rough idling, poor fuel economy, engine misfires, black smoke.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors.
- Cost: $800 - $1,500 per injector
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) Regeneration Problems
- Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption, DPF warning lights.
- Solution: Forced regeneration, cleaning, or replacement of the DPF.
- Cost: $1,000 - $3,000
Volvo D16 (16.1L Diesel)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Transmission
Volvo I-Shift (Automated Manual Transmission)
Clutch Actuator Malfunction
- Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, jerky shifts, transmission warning lights, inability to engage gears.
- Solution: Replacement of the clutch actuator or related sensors.
- Cost: $1,500 - $3,000
Transmission Control Module (TCM) Errors
- Symptoms: Erratic shifting behavior, loss of transmission function, diagnostic trouble codes related to TCM.
- Solution: Software update or replacement of the TCM.
- Cost: $1,000 - $2,500
Eaton Fuller (Manual Transmission - Less Common on VNL 740)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Suspension
Air Suspension System
Air Spring Leaks
- Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one side, uneven ride height, air leaks audible from suspension components.
- Solution: Replacement of leaking air springs or air lines.
- Cost: $400 - $800 per corner
Ride Height Control Valve Malfunction
- Symptoms: Inability to maintain correct ride height, suspension too high or too low, uneven suspension.
- Solution: Replacement of the ride height control valve.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Electrical
Wiring Harness Issues
Corrosion and Shorts
- Symptoms: Intermittent electrical failures, warning lights, non-functional accessories, starting problems.
- Solution: Inspection, repair, or replacement of damaged wiring sections.
- Cost: $500 - $1,500
Alternator and Battery System
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Infotainment/Telematics System
Software Glitches
- Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsive touch controls, intermittent connectivity issues.
- Solution: Software updates or system reset.
- Cost: $100 - $500 (for diagnostics/updates)
Exterior
Body Panels and Seals
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Lighting System
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
Cab Trim and Upholstery
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
HVAC System
Blower Motor Resistor Failure
- Symptoms: HVAC fan only works on highest setting or not at all.
- Solution: Replacement of the blower motor resistor.
- Cost: $150 - $300
Summary Verdict
The 2018 Volvo VNL 740 demonstrates a generally strong reliability record, particularly with its core powertrain components when properly maintained. The most frequently cited technical issues tend to revolve around the EGR system and DPF regeneration on the D13 engines, and potential electronic control module or actuator problems with the I-Shift transmission. Electrical system issues, while not widespread, can occur due to wiring harness wear. The suspension’s air components are susceptible to leaks over time. Overall, the VNL 740 is a dependable truck, but fleet operators should be aware of these specific potential failure points and budget accordingly for repairs, especially concerning emissions systems and automated transmissions.