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Volvo VNL Recall 15V643: Trailer May Detach From Truck Due to Fifth Wheel Lock Failure

NHTSA campaign 15V643, reported October 13, 2015, 669 vehicles potentially affected.

What this recall means for you

Certain 2011-2013 Volvo VNL and VNM trucks built between June 2010 and December 2012 have Fontaine Ultra LT fifth wheel connectors. Cumulative damage to the fifth wheel and its locking mechanism can cause the lock to fail to operate or properly engage.

If the damage is severe enough, the trailer may unexpectedly detach from the tractor, which increases the risk of a crash. Owners should take this recall seriously and have their vehicle checked promptly.

Volvo will notify owners, and Fontaine dealers will replace the fifth wheel with an Ultra NT model at no cost. Owners can contact Volvo customer service at 1-800-528-6586 with recall number RVXX1507, and should also check their VIN for any open recalls.

Check whether this recall is open on your vehicle

The repair is normally free at an authorized dealer.

Official recall notice

Safety recall 15V643Volvo Trucks North America
Component
TRAILER HITCHES:FIFTH WHEEL ASSEMBLY
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.
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.
Remedy
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.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Affected vehicles

Volvo VAH201120122013
Volvo VNL201120122013
Volvo VNM201120122013