2020 Volvo VNL Battery Replacement Guide

Quick answer

• BCI Group Size: Group 31 (typically 4x Group 31 batteries)
• CCA Rating: 925-1150 CCA per battery (consult your owner's manual for exact specifications)
• Reserve Capacity: 175-200 minutes per battery
• AGM vs. Flooded: Flooded lead-acid is standard; AGM is an upgrade option.
• Terminal Layout: Typically top post, stud terminals.
• Physical Dimensions: Standard Group 31 automotive battery dimensions (approximately 13" L x 6.8" W x 9.4" H)
• Dual Battery Setup: Yes, the 2020 Volvo VNL uses a multi-battery setup, usually four Group 31 batteries in a series/parallel configuration to achieve 12V and high cranking power.

Replacement battery options

For a heavy-duty truck like the 2020 Volvo VNL, reliability and durability are key. Here are some popular replacement options for Group 31 batteries:

• Interstate: MT31 (Flooded), MTP-31 (Flooded, high CCA), SRM-31 (AGM, Deep Cycle/Starting)
• Optima: Optima does not typically offer a direct Group 31 replacement suitable for the primary starting demands of a heavy-duty truck. Their YellowTop batteries are excellent for deep cycle but may not provide sufficient CCA for a VNL's multi-battery configuration.
• DieHard: 31-PLT (Platinum AGM), 31-MF (Gold Flooded)
• Odyssey: 31-925 (Performance Series, AGM), 31-PC2150S (Extreme Series, AGM)
• ACDelco: 31P-925 (Professional Heavy Duty Flooded), 31AGM (AGM)

AGM vs. flooded — which does this vehicle need?

The 2020 Volvo VNL typically comes equipped with flooded lead-acid batteries from the factory. These are a cost-effective and reliable choice for most applications. However, AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries offer several advantages that might make them a worthwhile upgrade for a heavy-duty truck:

• Durability: AGMs are more resistant to vibration, which is a significant factor in commercial trucking.
• Maintenance-Free: Unlike flooded batteries, AGMs do not require water top-offs.
• Deep Cycling: AGMs handle deep discharges better, which is beneficial if the truck frequently uses auxiliary power with the engine off (e.g., for sleeper cabs).
• Faster Recharging: AGMs generally accept a charge more efficiently.

While AGM batteries are more expensive upfront, their enhanced durability and performance in demanding heavy-duty applications can lead to a longer lifespan and fewer issues, potentially saving money in the long run. If your VNL is equipped with a lot of electronics or frequently idles for extended periods, AGM batteries are a strong consideration.

Post-installation relearn / reset procedure

Replacing batteries in a heavy-duty truck like the Volvo VNL is not as simple as swapping them out. Several systems may require resetting or relearning:

1. ECM/TCM Relearn: The engine control module (ECM) and transmission control module (TCM) may lose some learned parameters. While the truck will generally run, it might shift differently or have slightly altered performance for a short period until these modules re-learn. Driving cycles will typically resolve this automatically.
2. Clock and Radio Presets: These will almost certainly need to be reset manually.
3. Fault Codes: Disconnecting batteries can sometimes trigger low voltage fault codes. These often clear themselves after a few drive cycles, but if a