2020 Volvo VNL 300

Introduction:

The 2020 Volvo VNL 300 is a heavy-duty Class 8 semi-truck available with the following engine and transmission options:

• Engine:
  • D13 Turbo Compound - 500 hp / 1,850 lb-ft
  • D13 Turbo - 455 hp / 1,650 lb-ft
• Transmission:
  • Volvo I-Shift - 12-speed
  • Eaton Fuller UltraShift - 10-speed
  • Eaton Fuller Advantage - 18-speed

The VNL 300 is praised for its comfort, fuel efficiency, and safety features. However, it has received some criticism for its maintenance and repair costs.

Engine

D13 Turbo Compound

Fuel Injector Failure

• Description/Symptoms: Poor engine performance, fuel leaks, black smoke from exhaust.
• Solution: Replace fuel injectors.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000-$2,500+
• Recalls: None Found

D13 Turbo

Turbocharger Failure

• Description/Symptoms: Decreased engine power, whistling or whining noises from the turbo.
• Solution: Replace turbocharger.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500-$4,000+
• Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Volvo I-Shift

Clutch Failure

• Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping or shuddering transmission.
• Solution: Replace clutch.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,500-$5,000+
• Recalls: None Found

Eaton Fuller UltraShift

Shift Selector Issues

• Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears or intermittent gear selection.
• Solution: Replace shift selector unit.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500-$2,500
• Recalls: None Found

Suspension

Front Leaf Spring Failure

• Description/Symptoms: Sagging or broken leaf springs, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replace leaf springs.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000-$2,000+
• Recalls: None Found

Rear Air Suspension Air Leaks

• Description/Symptoms: Chassis height drops when parked, air leaks from air suspension components.
• Solution: Repair or replace air leaks.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$1,500+
• Recalls: None Found

Electrical

Battery Discharge

• Description/Symptoms: Battery drains quickly, loss of electrical power.
• Solution: Identify and fix electrical draw.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$500+
• Recalls: None Found

Starter Failure

• Description/Symptoms: Engine doesn’t crank or starts intermittently.
• Solution: Replace starter.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$1,000+
• Recalls: None Found

Exterior

Windshield Cracks

• Description/Symptoms: Small cracks in the windshield.
• Solution: Replace windshield.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$1,000+
• Recalls: None Found

Interior

Dashboard Lights Flickering

• Description/Symptoms: Dashboard lights flicker or intermittently malfunction.
• Solution: Replace dashboard light bulbs or repair electrical connections.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$500+
• Recalls: None Found

Other Issues

AdBlue System Malfunction

• Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, DEF warning messages.
• Solution: Repair or replace AdBlue system components.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000-$2,500+
• Recalls: None Found

Cruise Control Inoperative

• Description/Symptoms: Cruise control doesn’t engage or maintain desired speed.
• Solution: Replace cruise control switch or repair electrical wiring.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$800+
• Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2020 Volvo VNL 300 is a capable semi-truck, but like any vehicle, it has its fair share of common issues. Engine and transmission problems can be costly to repair, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000+. Electrical issues, such as battery discharge and starter failure, are also relatively common. Suspension and exterior issues can also be a concern, but their severity and cost to repair are generally lower. Overall, the VNL 300 is a reliable truck, but potential owners should be aware of these potential issues before making a purchase.