Volvo Recall 03V-204: Trailer hitches – fifth wheel assembly

Affected: 2001–2003 Volvo VHD, 2001–2003 Volvo VNL, 2001–2003 Volvo VNM. Filed with NHTSA on May 30, 2003, covering about 1,275 vehicles.

The problem

On certain heavy duty trucks equipped with jost international jsk 37u series fifth wheels, a fatigue crack can develop in the bracket pin weld under certain loading conditions.

The risk

If left undetected or corrected it could lead to the separation of the fifth wheel top plate from its mounting structure, possibly resulting in a crash.

The fix

Dealers will replace the bracket pins and repair instructions free of charge. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact jost international at 616-846-7700 or by email to recall@jostinternational.com or Volvo truck at 800-528-6586.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign03V-204 (03V204000)
ManufacturerVolvo Trucks North America
ComponentTrailer hitches › Fifth wheel assembly
Report dateMay 30, 2003
Vehicles affected1,275
Initiated byManufacturer

Vehicles covered

Frequently asked questions

Is the recall 03V-204 repair free?

Yes. Volvo dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace the bracket pins and repair instructions free of charge. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact jost international…

How do I know if my car is included?

Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 1,275 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.