The problem
On certain heavy-duty class trucks, salt and other highway snow and ice removal chemicals are getting under the protective caps of the chassis mounted emergency start studs and corroding them. This condition deteriorates the studs and the connections.
The risk
Over time the studs May loosen sufficiently to cause an electrical short.
The fix
Dealers will install new chassis mounted emergency start studs and associated battery cables. Owner notification is expected to begin during November 2003. Owners should contact Volvo at 1-800-528-6586.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 03V-381 (03V381000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | RVXX0307 |
| Manufacturer | Volvo Trucks North America |
| Component | Electrical system › Starter assembly |
| Report date | October 8, 2003 |
| Owners notified | November 11, 2003 |
| Vehicles affected | 176 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the electrical system
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 03V-381 repair free?
Yes. Volvo dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will install new chassis mounted emergency start studs and associated battery cables. Owner notification is expected to begin during November 2003. Owners should contact Volvo at 1-800-528-6586.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 176 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.