Recall 26V186 covers 222 2025-2026 Volvo Vnl (4) trucks for delayed service-brake release. Free repair once Volvo opens the final remedy.
Volvo is recalling 222 2025-2026 Vnl (4) vehicles because the service brake can take longer than expected to release, which can increase the risk of a crash. The final dealer repair is not open yet, but it will be free at a franchised Volvo dealer once Volvo opens it.
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What's wrong?
The electronic pressure modulator on the 2025-2026 Volvo Vnl (4) is part of the air brake plumbing. It helps control air pressure to the rear brake chambers, so the brakes apply when commanded and release when pressure is exhausted. On these trucks, the system includes Gras suspension, 2 rear driven axles, 24 sq in rear service and emergency brake chambers, and traction control.
The problem is in the pneumatic plumbing combination, which does not provide the required release flow. In plain terms, the air does not leave the brake circuit fast enough after the driver releases the brake pedal. That delay means the service brake takes longer than expected to release, which is why the trucks do not meet the air brake system standard.
There is no warning sign before failure. The issue was found during Volvo internal testing, and Volvo reported 0 field reports, warranty claims, accidents, or injuries tied to this condition.
Who's affected?
Both model years point to the same electronic pressure modulator in the brake system.
| 2025 Volvo Vnl (4) | brake system |
|---|---|
| 2026 Volvo Vnl (4) | brake system |
| Units affected | 222 |
| Field incidents | NHTSA has logged no field incidents to date. |
A matching year and model does not confirm inclusion. Check your VIN to confirm whether your specific truck is included.
What's the safety risk?
A delayed brake release can make the truck respond differently after braking and increase the risk of a crash. There is no warning sign listed before this brake release problem. Drive cautiously, leave extra room, and contact a franchised Volvo dealer about the interim notice. Repair will be free at any franchised Volvo dealer once Volvo opens it.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2025-2026 Volvo Vnl (4) is included in this recall.
- Watch for Volvo's interim owner letter, then the final repair letter when the dealer repair opens.
- Contact a franchised Volvo dealer once the final repair opens to schedule the free added brake valve and fittings service, which fixes the delayed service-brake release.
- Call Volvo customer service at 800-528-6586 with questions, and reference recall number 26V186 and Volvo recall RVXX2602 when you call.
- Drive cautiously until the repair opens and is completed. Leave extra following distance because the service brake can release late.
What happens at the repair
While this recall is in interim status, Volvo is notifying owners about the brake-release risk and will send another notice once the final repair is available. After the remedy opens, a Volvo technician will install an additional brake valve and fittings in the service brake pneumatic plumbing, free of charge. Parts and labor are covered under the recall. Volvo uses the manufacturer's standard reimbursement plan for this campaign, so documented out-of-pocket repairs tied to this brake plumbing issue are handled through that plan. Keep any repair paperwork for the service desk.
| Reimbursement | Reimbursement available |
|---|
Timeline
| March 25, 2026 | NHTSA published the recall |
|---|---|
| April 1, 2026 | Dealer notification began |
| April 1, 2026 | Dealer notification ended |
| May 22, 2026 | Interim owner notification (was planned for this date) |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 26V186?
Recall 26V186 covers 222 2025-2026 Volvo Vnl (4) vehicles with service brakes that take longer than expected to release. The delayed brake release can increase crash risk. Volvo dealers will install an additional brake valve and fittings for free once the final remedy opens.
What should I do if my 2025-2026 Volvo Vnl (4) is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific truck is included in recall 26V186. If it is, contact a franchised Volvo dealer and ask what interim guidance applies until the final repair opens. Reference recall number 26V186 and Volvo recall number RVXX2602 when you call.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires the manufacturer to repair the defect at no cost. Volvo's remedy says dealers will install an additional brake valve and fittings to the service brake pneumatic plumbing free of charge once the final remedy is available.
What is the safety risk in recall 26V186?
The safety risk is delayed brake release. When the service brake takes longer than expected to release, the truck's response after braking is delayed, increasing crash risk. If your VIN is included, ask a Volvo dealer for interim guidance before the final repair opens.
When will Volvo notify owners about recall 26V186?
Volvo expects to mail interim owner letters on May 22, 2026. Additional letters are expected once the final remedy is available, anticipated May 24, 2026. If your VIN is included before a letter arrives, contact Volvo customer service at 800-528-6586 or a franchised Volvo dealer.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/26V186000 |
|---|---|
| Volvo customer service | 800-528-6586 |
| NHTSA recall # | 26V186 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 26V186000 |
Source documents
This article is generated from NHTSA's primary recall filings and reviewed against the source on May 19, 2026. RecallNotify does not paraphrase NHTSA's consequence language; that text is reproduced as written above. Editorial standards →