2020 Volvo VNL 400

Vehicle Introduction:

The 2020 Volvo VNL 400 is a heavy-duty truck offered with multiple engine and transmission options. The D13 engine is available with horsepower ratings of 425, 455, and 500, and torque ratings of 1,450, 1,650, and 1,850 lb-ft, respectively. The D11 engine produces 375 horsepower and 1,250 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include the I-Shift automated manual transmission and the Allison 4500 automatic transmission.

Despite its popularity for its reliability and fuel efficiency, the 2020 Volvo VNL 400 has faced several issues reported by owners.

Engine

D13 Engine

• Turbocharger Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The turbocharger fails, leading to reduced engine power, black smoke from the exhaust, and loud whistling noises.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
• EGR Cooler Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The EGR cooler develops cracks or leaks, causing coolant leaks, overheating, and loss of power.
  • Solution: Replace the EGR cooler.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• Fuel Injector Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The fuel injectors fail, resulting in rough idling, reduced fuel efficiency, and black smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace the fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per injector
• Cam Phaser Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The cam phaser fails, causing engine noise, reduced performance, and increased fuel consumption.
  • Solution: Replace the cam phaser.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Recalls:
  • NHTSA Campaign ID: 20V609000: Fuel injector failure can lead to engine damage
  • NHTSA Campaign ID: 20V414000: EGR cooler failure can lead to engine overheating

D11 Engine

• No Major Issues Found

Transmission

I-Shift Automated Manual Transmission

• Shifting Problems:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may experience delayed or rough shifts, grinding noises, or difficulty engaging gears.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the transmission components, reprogram the transmission control unit (TCU), or update the software.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $5,000+
• TCU Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The TCU fails, leading to transmission control issues, shifting malfunctions, and engine stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the TCU.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
• Recalls:
  • NHTSA Campaign ID: 21V139000: Transmission software issue can cause loss of power

Allison 4500 Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter fails, causing shuddering, vibrations, or loss of power.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+
• Transmission Fluid Leaks:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission fluid leaks due to damaged seals or gaskets, causing a loss of fluid and potential transmission damage.
  • Solution: Replace the seals or gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

Suspension

• Air Suspension System Malfunctions:
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system may experience air leaks, compressor failure, or sensor issues, causing the truck to ride unevenly or lose its height.
  • Solution: Inspect and repair the air suspension components, replace the compressor or sensors, or update the software.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+

Electrical

• Electrical System Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Electrical glitches can occur, causing electrical components such as lights, gauges, or switches to malfunction.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the electrical system, replace faulty components, or update the software.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
• ECM Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine control module (ECM) may fail, leading to engine control problems, reduced performance, or stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the ECM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
• Recalls:
  • NHTSA Campaign ID: 20V190000: ECM software issue can cause engine stalling

Exterior

• Windshield Wipers Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The windshield wipers may fail or operate erratically, compromising visibility during inclement weather.
  • Solution: Replace the wiper motor or transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Interior

• Climate Control System Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control system may malfunction, leading to heating or cooling problems.
  • Solution: Inspect and repair the climate control system components, such as the HVAC module, blower motor, or sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
• Seatbelt Buckle Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The seatbelt buckle may fail to engage or release properly.
  • Solution: Replace the seatbelt buckle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Recalls:
  • NHTSA Campaign ID: 20V458000: Seatbelt buckle may fail to engage

Summary:

The 2020 Volvo VNL 400 has faced a range of issues, including engine problems, transmission malfunctions, and electrical glitches. While some issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be more severe and costly. Overall, the severity and cost of these issues can vary depending on the specific issue and the affected components.