The problem
Volvo Trucks North America (Volvo) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 VNL and VNM trucks manufactured June 21, 2010, to December 14, 2012. The affected trucks are equipped with Fontaine Ultra LT Fifth Wheel connectors, which, due to cumulative damage to the fifth wheel and its locking mechanism, have a locking mechanism that may fail to operate or to properly engage.
The risk
If the fifth wheel and locking mechanism are sufficiently damaged, the locking mechanism may fail to operate as intended and the trailer may unexpectedly detach from the tractor, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Volvo will notify owners, and Fontaine dealers will replace the fifth wheel with an Ultra NT model fifth wheel, free of charge. The recall began on November 23, 2015. Owners may contact Volvo customer service at 1-800-528-6586. Volvo's number for this recall is RVXX1507.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 15V-643 (15V643000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | RVXX1507 |
| Manufacturer | Volvo Trucks North America |
| Component | Trailer hitches › Fifth wheel assembly |
| Report date | October 13, 2015 |
| Owners notified | November 18, 2015 |
| Vehicles affected | 669 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 15V-643 repair free?
Yes. Volvo dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Volvo will notify owners, and Fontaine dealers will replace the fifth wheel with an Ultra NT model fifth wheel, free of charge. The recall began on November 23, 2015. Owners may contact Volvo customer service 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 669 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.