NHTSA to investigate alleged safety defects on Volvo trucks

GREENSBORO, N.C. (Feb. 4, 2002) — Volvo Trucks North America says it welcomes an investigation by federal safety officials over alleged safety defects.

The statement is in response to an investigation begun by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration after the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association submitted a petition alleging mechanical problems with more than 500 Volvo trucks. According to OOIDA, the investigations focus on steering problems, front U-bolt problems, and sleeper berth fires. These investigations join an ongoing NHTSA inquiry of rear U-bolt problems in Volvo trucks.

If, after investigating, NHTSA believes a vehicle defect exists, it has the power to pursue a vehicle recall and/or the manufacturer’s remedy of that defect.

“Safety has always been a core value of Volvo Trucks North America, and evidence of this commitment to safety can be seen in myriad ways to those knowledgeable about commercial vehicles,” read the statement, which cites as examples its industry-leading use of air bags and its high-strength-steel cabs. “NHTSA routinely considers such petitions regardless of merit. While Volvo Trucks believes the petition is without merit, the company will continue to work with NHTSA and comply with all of their requests.”

Volvo said it is anxious for NHTSA to publish its findings on the subject. The company encouraged Volvo owners who believe there is a problem with a vehicle to contact an authorized Volvo Trucks dealer.