2019 Volvo VNL 740
2019 Volvo VNL 740
Overview
The 2019 Volvo VNL 740 is a heavy-duty commercial truck designed for long-haul operations, emphasizing driver comfort and fuel efficiency. Volvo’s reputation for robust engineering is generally reflected in the VNL 740’s reliability. While specific component failures are rare, proactive maintenance and addressing minor issues promptly are key to maximizing uptime. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond standard wear and tear, providing insights into potential problem areas and their resolutions for fleet managers and owner-operators.
Engine
Volvo D11 (9.4L Diesel)
EGR Cooler Leaks
- Symptoms: White smoke from exhaust, coolant loss, engine overheating, reduced engine power.
- Solution: Replacement of the EGR cooler assembly.
- Cost: $800 - $1500
Turbocharger Failure
- Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke, whistling noises, check engine light.
- Solution: Turbocharger inspection and potential replacement.
- Cost: $1500 - $3000
Volvo D13 (12.8L Diesel)
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) Clogging
- Symptoms: Reduced engine power, increased fuel consumption, check engine light, regeneration failures.
- Solution: Forced regeneration or DPF cleaning/replacement.
- Cost: $500 - $2000
Fuel Injector Issues
- Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, poor fuel economy, black smoke, check engine light.
- Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of faulty fuel injectors.
- Cost: $300 - $600 per injector
Volvo D16 (16.1L Diesel)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Transmission
Volvo I-Shift (Automated Manual Transmission)
Clutch Actuator Malfunction
- Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, jerky engagement, transmission warning lights.
- Solution: Replacement of the clutch actuator or related sensors.
- Cost: $1000 - $2500
Transmission Control Module (TCM) Errors
- Symptoms: Erratic shifting behavior, failure to engage gears, dashboard error messages.
- Solution: Software update or replacement of the TCM.
- Cost: $800 - $1800
Eaton Fuller Manual Transmissions
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Suspension
Volvo Air Suspension (VNL Series)
Air Spring Leaks
- Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one side, uneven ride height, air suspension warning light.
- Solution: Inspection and replacement of leaking air springs or air lines.
- Cost: $400 - $800 per corner
Height Control Valve Malfunction
- Symptoms: Inability to adjust ride height, constant air leaks, uneven suspension.
- Solution: Replacement of the height control valve.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Electrical
Wiring Harness Issues
No major issues reported for this configuration.
Alternator Failure
No major issues reported for this configuration.
Exterior
No Major Issues
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Interior
No Major Issues
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Summary Verdict
The 2019 Volvo VNL 740 demonstrates strong reliability, particularly in its core powertrain components when properly maintained. The most frequently cited issues, such as EGR cooler leaks and DPF clogging on certain engine variants, are common to modern diesel technology and are generally addressable with standard repair procedures. Transmission reliability, especially with the I-Shift, is good, though actuator or module issues can arise. Suspension components like air springs and height control valves are typical wear items for air-ride systems. Electrical system issues, while not pervasive, can occur and require thorough diagnosis. Overall, the VNL 740 is a dependable choice for long-haul trucking, with most potential problems being manageable and not indicative of systemic design flaws.