The problem
On certain passenger vehicles, water can enter the electrical brake vacuum pump, causing the pump to fail.
The risk
This could result in loss of power assist and an increase in needed brake pedal force, which could result in a crash.
The fix
Dealers will replace the pump with a new and improved version and move the pump to a new location. Owner notification began on March 15, 2004. Owners should contact Volvo at 1-800-458-1552.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 03V-474 (03V474000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 129 |
| Manufacturer | Volvo Car USA, LLC |
| Component | Service brakes, hydraulic › Power assist › Vacuum |
| Report date | November 17, 2003 |
| Owners notified | March 15, 2004 |
| Vehicles affected | 36,000 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the brakes
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 03V-474 repair free?
Yes. Volvo dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace the pump with a new and improved version and move the pump to a new location. Owner notification began on March 15, 2004. Owners should contact Volvo at 1-800-458-1552.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 36,000 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.