Volvo/brake light relays
Defect Summary
On certain sport utility vehicles, the rear left and right brake light relays may not function when the brake pedal is depressed or may stay on continuously. the high positioned brake light and all other tail lights will not be affected.
Safety Consequence
If the brake lights fail to come on, there will be no lower brake lights to indicate to following vehicles that the vehicle is decelerating, which could result in a crash.
Corrective Action
Dealers will replace the brake light relay with two relays of a modified design. owner notification began on february 23, 2004. owners should contact volvo at 1-800-458-1552.
Similar Recalls
Other recalls from Volvo Car Usa, Llc or involving Exterior Lighting.
FAQ: Recall 04V051000
Your rights, the repair process, and what each field on this page means.
What is recall 04V051000?
NHTSA recall 04V051000 was issued by Volvo Car Usa, Llc on February 2, 2004. It addresses: Volvo/brake light relays. The recall affects approximately 3,242 vehicles, with the defect involving the Exterior Lighting component.
How do I get this recall repaired?
Contact any authorized Volvo Car Usa, Llc dealer and reference NHTSA recall ID 04V051000 or the manufacturer campaign number R131. Under federal law, the repair is completely free regardless of vehicle age or owner history.
Is my vehicle included in this recall?
The only way to confirm is to look up your 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. NHTSA's tool will tell you if VIN-by-VIN this exact recall applies.
How long do I have to get a recall repair done?
There is no expiration on most federal safety recalls. Even if your vehicle is years old and you bought it used, the manufacturer is required to perform the repair at no cost.
Where does the data on this page come from?
All information on this page is sourced directly from the U.S. Department of Transportation public dataset for NHTSA recalls. Last refreshed: 2026-05-22. For the most current official notice, visit nhtsa.gov/recalls.