Volvo VNL Marker Lights Not Working – Find Out Why!

Volvo VNL marker lights not working could be a sign that proper safety features are compromised. This will jeopardize the visibility and higher the risk of road accidents. First, figure out the common causes.

Usually, Volvo VNL marker lights will stop working due to wiring short, faulty fuses and relays, problematic electrical clusters, malfunctioning ECM and damaged LCM fuse. 

Let’s discuss more on each of these culprits, how it can trouble the marker lights, and what to do next. 

Volvo VNL Marker Lights Not Working Due To 5 Causes

Several reasons can make the Volvo VNL marker lights inactive. You may discover turn signals, stop lights and the 4-way flashers are all working just normally. It’s just the amber and red marker lights located at the rear and front that have given up for some reason.

For Your Information – Both amber marker lights and red marker lights are identification lights. According to the Fire Apparatus Manufacturers’ Association (FAMA), red marker lights are meant for labeling the backside of a vehicle while amber marker lights are for the front side. These marker lights are essential for you and others on the road to encounter each other safely.

Make sure there’s enough fuel in the system as that could also be responsible for lights not working. On that note, I’ve just covered some solutions to try when Volvo gas door is not working, which you may find interesting.

1: Short in Wiring 

It is possible that a wire is touching the frame and rubbing through it. If that happens, a short circuit is probable and as a result, it can also affect the market lights. 

You should check the front side of the vehicle. This is usually where some wires need to transition from the interior of the frame toward the hood.

Replace Any Damaged Wire

As soon as you find the short wire, remove it carefully and replace it with a new one. You should also look for any exposed wires that can further complicate the issue later on. Replace those as well to avoid any chance of a short circuit again.

2: Dash Switch Issues

You should check the dash switches and see if any bulb inside is damaged due to a short. It could be the main cluster of light bulbs as well. Also don’t forget to inspect the connector on the dash switch. Perhaps it’s loose and causing the malfunction.

Check The Fuse In Switch

To identify the switch in trouble, consider checking in the dark. For the one that does not light up, carefully unplug it and check if the fuse pops or not. If it does not pop, then the bulb or switch requires replacing.

Reconnect The Switch Connector

To connect it back, firmly press on it. If you think the connector is not plugging in, or it comes out after a while, replace the connector as it’s probably almost worn out.

3: Faulty Fuses and Relays

The most common culprit to doubt when the Volvo truck roof marker lights not working is a burned-out fuse. Especially if both in front and rear, the Volvo trailer lights are not working. 

You need to track the Volvo VNL marker light fuse location and inspect it to confirm. Check inside the fuse box to locate the associated fuse.

It is also possible that a burned-out bulb from the back or front clearance light is causing the problem. Especially if it’s the case of a 2016 Volvo VNL marker lights not working as reported by many users.

Also, you should check the relays in the fuse panel to make sure one of those is worn out.

Replace Blown Fuse

Once you confirm the associated fuse is blown, find a compatible part and replace it. Make sure you find one with the same rating.

Something To Know – I’ve come across some reports stating that despite replacing the problematic fuse, it burns out right after the installation. You may try using a thin wire with the fuse to address the surprise burnout. 

But it could melt as well. You can also remove the pigtail from both ends. Even after trying all of these, if the fuse burns out again, you need to focus on identifying the other component that could be malfunctioning.

Replace Bulbs & Relays

For a blown-out bulb or faulty relays, carefully remove and replace them with a compatible one. The issue should be gone.

4: Electrical Cluster Issues

If along with inactive marker lights you are also experiencing issues with the interior lights and horn, chances are the electrical cluster is having trouble. 

You should also check the wiring harness and connections to ensure there are no exposed, loose, or damaged parts contributing to electrical glitches and inactive lights.

Repair Wiring

In case of loose or damaged electrical connections, you need to reestablish them back securely. Any obstruction or substance build-up can also be responsible for loose or damaged connections. You should consider cleaning those as well.

Rectify Cluster Errors Professionally

Issues related to electrical cluster should be handled by professionals as it involves several complicated connections and components.

Also do consider contacting the service center if you have got the “book time for maintenance” message along with this problem in your Volvo car. 

5: ECM and LCM Issue

Both the ECM and LCM are essential components needed in any vehicle like Volvo that ensures the proper functioning of system components such as marker lights. 

ECM could malfunction due to disrupted electrical signals and as a result fail to control the lights. This often happens from errors in receiving or transmitting the signals.

LCM is in charge of managing lighting functions. Fuses here could be blown and cause the marker light to stop working.

Professional Diagnosis for ECM

Consider getting professional help for ECM problem diagnosis. This is because most probably ECM damages lead to a replacement, which requires an expert to deal with it. 

Not to mention, ECM replacements are quite costly procedures. There’s a need for dealership reprogramming for the right compatibility and functioning of the vehicle.

Replace The LCM Fuse

You need to check the module first. You may wonder where is the light control module on a Volvo VNL.

The light control module or LCM on a Volvo VNL semi-truck should be situated near the upper cup holders in the center dash.  You’ll find it right beneath the fuse panel.

Replace all the blown fuses and make sure all connections are secure. Test the marker lights and the issue should be resolved.

Wrapping Up

With the Volvo VNL lights not working, you are sort of exposed to driving danger and so are the other drivers on the road. It is important you fix the problem as soon as possible. 

So, if it’s complicated to detect the exact cause and you feel lost, get help from a professional. Also, you should expect a replacement recommendation if nothing works out.

I will be back with similar topics soon again, till then take care!