Volvo VNL replacement engines & transmissions
Volvo VNL Engines & I-Shift Transmissions
The VNL has gone through several generations since Volvo launched the VN in 1996, most recently an all-new VNL in 2024. Engine and transmission choices changed with each one, so send us your VIN and unit details and we search for a match.
Engine families
Engines to check
Transmission families
Transmissions to check
All Volvo trucks
Factory options varied by model and year. Links are starting points, not a fitment guarantee — we confirm against your VIN and serial numbers.
01VNL generations
Volvo launched the VN series in 1996. A new-generation VNL was unveiled in July 2017, and Volvo unveiled an all-new VNL on January 23, 2024. Each generation changed the cab, electronics and powertrain offering, so a replacement engine or transmission needs to match your truck's generation, not just the VNL name.
02Engines in the VNL
When the 2017-generation VNL launched, the 13-liter Volvo D13 was standard, the 11-liter D11 was an option on day cabs and the VNL 400, and the 15-liter Cummins X15 was also available. Volvo stopped selling its 16-liter D16 in North America in January 2017.
The D13 Turbo Compound (D13TC) was first offered on sleeper models from mid-2017, became standard on the VNL 740, 760 and 860 in late 2020, and was made standard on all VNL models in 2021. The all-new 2024 VNL launched with the latest-generation D13 at 405 to 500 hp, and Volvo's current VNL page lists the D13 as its engine.
03I-Shift and manual transmissions
Volvo introduced the I-Shift automated manual in North America in 2006 and made it standard on all Volvo-powered models in 2013. Crawler-gear versions, which turn the 12-speed I-Shift into a 13- or 14-speed, were announced in 2016 for heavier work.
Earlier VNLs could still be ordered with a manual transmission, but Volvo ended its manual transmission offering with the all-new 2024 VNL. If your truck has a manual, send the transmission tag details; if it has an I-Shift, send the label and tell us whether it has crawler gears.
04Programming and integration
VNL engines and I-Shift transmissions communicate with the truck's other control units, so a replacement often needs programming with Volvo dealer tools. A D13 from the 2017 generation and one from the 2024 VNL are different engines from an integration standpoint, and a D13TC differs from a standard D13. The engine serial number tells us which one you need.
05What to have ready
To start a VNL search, have:
- Full VIN and model (for example VNL 760 or 860)
- Engine model and serial number (D13, D13TC, D11 or Cummins X15)
- I-Shift label details, and whether it has crawler gears
- Model year and approximate mileage of the failed unit
- Whether you need a complete engine, long block or transmission only
FAQ
Volvo VNL engine & transmission questions
Which engine does my Volvo VNL have?
The D13 and D13 Turbo Compound are standard in current VNLs. Some 2017-generation VNLs were built with a D11 or a Cummins X15. The engine label or the build data tied to your VIN confirms it.
Is the 2024 VNL the same as the 2017 VNL?
No. Volvo unveiled an all-new VNL in January 2024 with a new-generation D13, the I-Shift and no manual transmission option. Engines and transmissions are matched to the generation, so send your VIN.
Does a replacement D13 or I-Shift need programming?
Usually some programming is needed so the unit works with the truck's other control units. A Volvo dealer or equipped shop can confirm what your truck needs.
Was the D16 offered in the VNL?
Volvo stopped selling the D16 in North America in January 2017, before the 2017-generation VNL launched. If you have an older VN with a D16, send the engine serial and we search for it.
Are you a Volvo dealer?
No. We are an independent sourcing company. We search supplier sources nationwide and confirm availability and freight on your quote.
Other trucks
Shop by another truck make or model
Ready when you are
Replacing the engine or transmission in your Volvo VNL? Start with the VIN.
Have your engine serial number, CPL and VIN handy. If you don't, we'll help you find them.
Commercial-Engines.com is an independent supplier of used commercial truck engines and transmissions. Manufacturer names, model names and part numbers are used for identification only and do not imply affiliation with, or endorsement by, any manufacturer. Read the full disclaimer.