The problem
Volvo Trucks North America (Volvo) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 VNL, VNX, and VNM trucks manufactured from May 11, 2015, through April 18, 2016. The trucks may have been manufactured without a roll pin on the steering shafts. If the roll pin is missing, the lower steering shaft may disconnect from the junction block. Also, the bolt connecting the upper steering shaft to the lower steering shaft may not have been properly tightened. Either condition can lead to separation of the steering shaft.
The risk
Separation of the steering shaft will result in complete loss of steering which may lead to a vehicle crash.
The fix
Volvo is strongly recommending that the affected vehicles not be driven until the interim remedy is applied. An interim notice was sent to Volvo owners on March 16, 2016, and an interim repair is available now. A second notice was mailed on May 13, 2016. The final remedy is now available. Both remedies are free of charge. Owners may contact Volvo customer service at 1-877-800-4945 opt #1. Volvo's recall numbers for this campaign are RVXX1602 and RVXX1603. This recall supersedes safety recall 15V-786.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 16V-097 (16V097000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | RVXX1602/RVXX1603 |
| Manufacturer | Volvo Trucks North America |
| Component | Steering |
| Report date | February 17, 2016 |
| Owners notified | May 13, 2016 |
| Vehicles affected | 18,116 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the steering
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 16V-097 repair free?
Yes. Volvo dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Volvo is strongly recommending that the affected vehicles not be driven until the interim remedy is applied. An interim notice was sent to Volvo owners on March 16, 2016, and an interim repair is available now. A second notice was mailed on May 13, 2016.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 18,116 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is it safe to drive?
No — the manufacturer says owners should not drive affected vehicles until the repair is done. Contact a dealer to arrange towing.
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.