Mack Trucks is recalling 850 model-year 2026–2027 Anthem and Pioneer tractors, and Volvo Trucks North America is recalling 392 model-year 2025–2027 VNL and 2026–2027 VNR tractors, all equipped with a tanker application package that may calculate axle loads inaccurately. The defect, documented in NHTSA campaigns 26V619 for Volvo and 26V620 for Mack, can reduce braking performance while the trucks pull smoothbore tanker trailers. According to the recall summaries, reduced braking performance can lengthen stopping distances and increase the risk of a crash.
Highlights
- 850 Mack and 392 Volvo tractors with the tanker application package are covered by the two campaigns
- Volvo dealers will install new software that disables the dynamic trailer braking calculations, free of charge
- Volvo owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 27, 2026
- VINs for both recalls become searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 5, 2026
Which Trucks Are Affected?
Both recalls cover only tractors built with a tanker application package. The affected populations break down as follows:
| Manufacturer | Models and Model Years | Units | NHTSA Recall | Manufacturer Recall | Customer Service |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mack Trucks | 2026–2027 Anthem AN, Pioneer PR | 850 | 26V620 | SC0500 | 1-800-866-1177 |
| Volvo Trucks North America | 2025–2027 VNL, 2026–2027 VNR | 392 | 26V619 | RVXX2610 | 800-528-6586 |
What Causes the Reduced Braking Performance?
The recall summaries attribute the condition to inaccurate axle load calculations. The braking shortfall occurs while the tractors transport smoothbore tanker trailers.
NHTSA classifies both campaigns under electric service brakes. The agency’s subject line for the Mack campaign identifies a software calculation error as the cause.
Remedy and Owner Notification
Volvo dealers will install new software that disables the dynamic trailer braking calculations at no cost to owners. Volvo expects to mail owner notification letters November 27, 2026. Owners can reach Volvo Trucks customer service at 800-528-6586 and reference recall number RVXX2610.
Mack owners can contact Mack customer service at 1-800-866-1177 and reference recall number SC0500.
Volvo and Mack also filed parallel campaigns in April over a Bendix rear brake modulator connector defect that could disable ABS and electronic stability control.
