Is the 1996 Volvo VN reliable?

There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.

What are the most common problems with the 1996 Volvo VN?

The most-reported component is suspension, accounting for 100% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 1996 Volvo VN have?

1 recall on file for this model year.

1996 Volvo VN

○ Not enough data

1996 Volvo VN
RENDERED 2026-11-01T12:49:40.793Z

Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.

This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.

Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.

How is this computed?

Complaints: 2
Recalls: 1
Investigations: 1
Top problem: —

Complaints per year

1996: 2 complaints

View as data table

Year	Complaints
1996	2
1997	0
1998	9
1999	9
2000	5
2001	1
2002	0
2003	3
2004	1
2005	2
2006	2
2007	3
2008	2
2009	0
2010	0
2011	0
2012	2
2013	1
2014	2
2015	0
2016	0
2017	0
2018	2
2019	0
2020	5
2021	3
2022	0
2023	0
2024	2
2025	0
2026	0
2027	0

Known problem areas

Only 2 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.

Suspension

2 of 2 total reports mention: suspension.

Show complaint excerpts

Vehicle's steering box fell out.

NHTSA ODI report, 2002-05-08

Also filed under Steering

Steering

1 of 2 total reports mentions: steering, most commonly citing gear box (other than rack and pinion).

Safety timeline

1 recall · 1 investigation · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

R

1997-03-27Power train97V033000 The transmission shift control lever can break off at the transmission.

Remedy: Dealers will replace these transmission shift control levers with new control levers.

Check if this car was fixed →
I
2001-04-18Engineering analysisClosed 2002-07-30 U-bolt failures on drive -axle assemblie

Buy-smart checklist

1996 Volvo VN — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Suspension: 2 reports on file for this year.
Steering: 1 report on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

Recall 97V033000 · Power train

FAQ

Is the 1996 Volvo VN reliable?: There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1996 Volvo VN?: The most-reported component is suspension, accounting for 100% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1996 Volvo VN have?: 1 recall on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.