Volvo Trucks recalls 2018-2024 models over passenger seat safety concerns

According to documents from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Volvo Trucks North America is recalling certain 2018-2024 VN, VNR, and VHD trucks after discovering an issue with the passenger seat.

The vehicles do not meet the standards set by Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 207, addressing “Seating Systems,” and 210, concerning “Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages.” This is due to the possibility that the passenger seat may not be properly secured to the floor, as anchor points could fail, increasing the risk of injuries in the event of a collision.

Dealerships will perform the replacement at no cost, substituting the welded nut with two nuts and a washer. The larger surface area of this combination meets established test standards.

The issue was identified shortly after completing tests in September of the current year. On November 1, engineering results were assessed for various seat and seat belt combinations, resulting in a report from the company’s product safety office about a potential issue.

Manufacturing issues?

This marks the second instance in the last three months that Volvo Trucks has issued a recall for its vehicles. In October, nearly 2,000 2024 model VHD, VNL, and VNR trucks were recalled because the connector that joined two steering components, the pitman arm and drag link, was suspected to be loose.

Similarly, in early November, Paccar issued a recall for approximately 3,800 Kenworth trucks due to a seat belt issue that could impact the ability to restrain passengers during potential collisions, according to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration documents.

While these incidents are not currently linked, questions arise about driver safety and the company’s manufacturing process. Fortunately, no accidents or injuries related to these issues have occurred, and there have been no warranty claims, field reports, or customer complaints associated with them.

Notification letters to owners of 2018-2024 VN, VNR, and VHD trucks are expected to be sent on December 15.