2014 Volvo VNL Fluid Specifications

Quick Reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine Oil	SAE 15W-40, 10W-30 (API CJ-4)	~38 - 48 quarts (Volvo D11/D13/D16)
Engine Coolant	Volvo VCS / ELC (Nitrite-free OAT)	~12 - 15 gallons
Transmission Fluid	Varies by Transmission Model	Varies
Rear Axle Oil	SAE 80W-90, 75W-90 Synthetic	~18 - 22 pints
Power Steering Fluid	ATF Dexron III / Mercon	~2 - 4 quarts
Brake Fluid	DOT 4	N/A (Air Brakes)
Washer Fluid	Standard Blue (-20°F)	~1 - 2 gallons
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)	ISO 22241	~10 - 23 gallons

Engine Oil

For the 2014 Volvo VNL equipped with D11, D13, or D16 engines, the recommended engine oil is a high-quality, heavy-duty diesel engine oil meeting the API CJ-4 specification. The most common viscosity grade is SAE 15W-40. In colder climates, SAE 10W-30 may be used. Always use an oil that meets Volvo VDS-4 standard, which was the prevalent specification for this model year. Using the wrong oil can lead to increased wear, reduced engine life, and issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) system. Change intervals can be up to 55,000 miles, but always follow the manufacturer's recommended interval based on your specific duty cycle.

Engine Coolant

The 2014 Volvo VNL uses a specific Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolant. It must be a nitrite-free, extended life coolant (ELC). The factory-fill coolant is Volvo VCS. While other ELC coolants may be compatible, it is critical to ensure they meet the ASTM D6210 standard for heavy-duty diesel engines. Do NOT mix with conventional, silicate-based (green) or hybrid (HOAT) coolants, as this can cause gelling and severe cooling system damage. The system should be flushed and refilled every 500,000 miles or as recommended in your service manual.

Transmission Fluid

Fluid type for the 2014 VNL is entirely dependent on the transmission installed. Common options include:

• Volvo I-Shift Automated Manual: Requires a synthetic transmission fluid meeting Volvo 97318 specification.
• Eaton Fuller Manual/Automated: These typically use SAE 50 transmission fluid or a synthetic equivalent like Eaton Roadranger PS-386.
• Allison Automatic: Requires an Allison-approved fluid meeting the TES-295 or TES-389 specification.

Using incorrect fluid will lead to poor shifting, overheating, and premature transmission failure. Always verify the fluid specification on the transmission's data tag or in the OEM service information.

Rear Axle / Differential Oil

The rear axles in a 2014 Volvo VNL typically require a gear oil of SAE 80W-90 viscosity. For improved performance and extended drain intervals, a synthetic SAE 75W-90 meeting API GL-5 is highly recommended, especially for axles from manufacturers like Meritor or Dana. Always confirm the required specification in your owner's manual. Some axles may have specific requirements, but a quality GL-5 rated gear oil is the standard.

Power Steering Fluid

The power steering system in the 2014 VNL is generally specified to use a fluid meeting ATF Dexron III / Mercon specifications. Do not use dedicated "power steering fluid" unless it explicitly states that it meets these specifications. The system does not require synthetic fluid, but using a quality brand will ensure longevity and proper operation, especially in extreme temperatures.

Brake Fluid

The 2014 Volvo VNL is equipped with a full air brake system. As such, it does not use hydraulic brake fluid. The braking system is operated by compressed air, which is filtered and dried by an air dryer. Regular maintenance of the air dryer cartridge is essential to keep moisture and contaminants out of the air brake system.

Washer Fluid

Use any standard automotive windshield washer fluid, typically blue in color, with a freezing point appropriate for your climate (e.g., -20°F or lower). There is no specific OEM specification for this fluid.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)

For VNL models equipped with a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system, Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is required. The DEF must be certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API) and meet the ISO 22241 standard. Do not add any additives to your DEF, and use only DEF from sealed containers to avoid contamination, which can destroy the expensive SCR system components.

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