Volvo Recall 12V-036: Service brakes, air – check valve

Affected: 2011–2012 Volvo VHD, 2011–2013 Volvo VNL, 2011–2013 Volvo VNM. Filed with NHTSA on February 1, 2012, covering about 21,625 vehicles.

The problem

Volvo is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 vhd and model year 2011-2013 vnl and vnm vehicles, manufactured from December 2, 2010, through January 18, 2012, and equipped with bendix atr-6 traction relay valves. In extremely cold conditions, these bendix relay valves May potentially develop internal leakage. Internal leakage can lead to air pressure being delivered to affected primary or secondary brake causing continuous brake application.

The risk

Inadvertent brake application can cause the brakes to overheat and lead to a fire. Inadvertent brake application can cause the wheels to lock-up leading the driver to lose control of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

The fix

Volvo will notify owners, and provide a temporary repair until bendix develops a permanent remedy. A permanent remedy has been developed and notification to owners began on April 27, 2012. This service will be performed free of charge. Owners May contact Volvo trucks at 1-800-528-6586.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign12V-036 (12V036000)
Manufacturer numberRVXX1202
ManufacturerVolvo Trucks North America
ComponentService brakes, air › Supply › Check valve
Report dateFebruary 1, 2012
Owners notifiedApril 27, 2012
Vehicles affected21,625
Initiated byManufacturer

Vehicles covered

Owner complaints about the brakes

Frequently asked questions

Is the recall 12V-036 repair free?

Yes. Volvo dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Volvo will notify owners, and provide a temporary repair until bendix develops a permanent remedy. A permanent remedy has been developed and notification to owners began on April 27, 2012. This service will be performed free of charge.

How do I know if my car is included?

Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 21,625 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.