The Volvo D12 engine, while known for its fuel efficiency, has also garnered a reputation for certain problems. This article explores common issues encountered with the D12, including injector failures, EGR valve problems, turbocharger issues, and overall reliability concerns.
One owner of a Volvo D12 with 465HP in a Volvo 680 reported achieving impressive fuel mileage of 7.0 to 7.25 mpg. However, this efficiency was offset by a lack of pulling power, particularly when climbing hills with heavy loads. In one instance, a 40,000-pound load required downshifting to 7th gear to crest a hill.
Reliability proved to be a significant concern for this owner. Within 150,000 miles, the engine experienced multiple failures, including two bad injectors, a cracked front cover plate, two EGR valve replacements, significant valve adjustments, repeated exhaust pipe repairs, necessary turbocharger work, and a faulty engine brake activation valve.
The high cost of repairs further compounded these issues. Volvo engine repairs are often handled exclusively by dealerships, resulting in labor costs of around $100 per hour and expensive parts. This significantly diminishes the overall cost-effectiveness of owning a vehicle with a Volvo D12 engine.
Volvo dealer mechanics, according to the owner, confirmed that the experienced performance issues were typical of the D12 engine. They even advised against purchasing trucks equipped with this particular engine. This raises serious questions about the long-term viability and reliability of the Volvo D12. While fuel efficiency can be a major draw, the potential for frequent and costly repairs may outweigh this benefit for many truck owners.
In conclusion, the Volvo D12 engine presents a complex picture. While it may offer good fuel economy, potential owners should carefully consider the reported issues with reliability, power, and the high cost of repairs before making a purchase. A thorough inspection and understanding of the engine’s history are crucial to avoid unexpected and potentially expensive problems down the road.
