Volvo Bus Recall Could Impact Safety for 165 U.S. Coaches Due to Fire Suppression Defect

Volvo Bus Corporation is recalling 165 of its 2023 to 2025 model year Volvo Bus 9700 coaches due to a potential safety defect in the Automatic Fire Suppression System (AFSS), according to a July 16, 2025 safety report submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The defect stems from metallic debris introduced during manufacturing, which can contaminate electrical connectors in the AFSS. This contamination could trigger false system alerts, cause unnecessary engine shutdowns, and discharge fire suppression agents unexpectedly. These events raise the risk of accidents, especially in situations where a loss of power may occur in active traffic or require emergency evacuation of passengers.

Affected vehicles were produced between April 10, 2023, and November 8, 2024, and include 32 buses from model year 2023, 26 from 2024, and 107 from 2025. The defect was first reported in January 2025, with additional incidents logged through June. Volvo confirmed a manufacturing process error involving improper grinding operations led to the issue. No injuries, crashes, or fatalities have been associated with the defect so far.

Volvo and its U.S. distributor Prevost will inspect and remove debris from affected buses’ AFSS systems at no cost to owners. Notification letters are scheduled to be sent starting September 3, 2025. Until then, owners are advised not to drive the buses and to park them outside as a precaution. Customers who already performed the necessary corrections will be eligible for reimbursement.

Article by multiple contributors, based upon information from Volvo Bus Corporation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

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