Volvo and Mack Recalled Tanker Trucks Over Software
The companies recalled over 1,200 tractor trucks due to software defects affecting braking and axle load calculations.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Trucks
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Volvo Trucks North America and Mack Trucks have issued recalls for select tractor models equipped with a tanker application package. The software defect causes inaccurate axle load calculations, leading to reduced braking performance when hauling smoothbore tankers.
Why it matters
The braking shortfall significantly increases the risk of a crash for heavy-duty operators. The recall addresses critical software flaws to ensure safer vehicle handling while towing specific types of trailers.
Mack is recalling 850 model-year 2026-2027 Anthem and Pioneer tractors, while Volvo is recalling 392 model-year 2025-2027 VNL and 2026-2027 VNR tractors. Both companies will provide free software updates through their dealership networks.
The players
Volvo Trucks North America
This major manufacturer produces heavy-duty trucks and transport solutions for the North American market.
Mack Trucks
This historic American truck manufacturer is a subsidiary of the Volvo Group and specializes in commercial heavy-duty tractors.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
This federal agency is responsible for oversight of vehicle safety recalls and maintaining the national database for consumer inquiries.
The details
The software error specifically impacts trucks utilizing a tanker application package, which can lead to miscalculated axle loads. Volvo and Mack technicians will disable the dynamic trailer braking calculations via a mandatory software update to restore proper vehicle performance.
Timeline
October 5, 2026: VINs for both recalls become searchable on NHTSA.gov.
November 27, 2026: Volvo owner notification letters are expected to be mailed.
Roadmap
This recall underscores the increasing complexity of vehicle software as manufacturers integrate sophisticated trailer braking systems. It reflects a broader industry challenge where digital features must be meticulously calibrated to ensure safety in diverse heavy-duty hauling conditions.
Owners of affected Volvo and Mack tractors will receive a free software update at authorized dealerships to resolve the braking defect. Drivers should verify their vehicle status using the provided NHTSA campaign numbers to confirm if their specific truck requires service.
The takeaway
Commercial operators should prioritize checking their VINs as soon as the database updates to ensure their tanker towing capability is safe. Proactive maintenance regarding these software updates is essential to avoid potential performance issues while on the road.
What happens next
Vehicle identification numbers for both recalls will become searchable via the NHTSA online database beginning October 5, 2026, followed by the commencement of owner notification mailings for Volvo customers on November 27, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on heavy-duty vehicle safety standards and current industry news, visit our Trucks section.
More information
To verify your vehicle status or view specific safety details, utilize the NHTSA vehicle recall lookup tool.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The BRAKE Report.
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