Volvo S40 problems
The Volvo S40 is a series of subcompact executive cars marketed and produced by the Swedish manufacturer Volvo Cars from 1995 to 2012, offered as a more mainstream alternative to the compact executive Volvo S60 to compete in a lower pricing bracket. The S40 was more or less positioned against premium-leaning small family cars like the Volkswagen Jetta as well as some mass-market large family cars.
The first generation (1995–2004) was introduced in 1995 with the S40 (S from saloon) and V40 (V from versatility, estate) cars.
The second generation (2004–2012) was released in 2004, and the estate variant's name changed to V50.
The range was replaced by the Volvo V40 five door hatchback in 2012.
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Volvo S40 model years
Common Volvo S40 problems
The Volvo S40 is a popular car known for its luxury and solid motoring. However, like any vehicle, it is not immune to problems and issues. This article will discuss some of the most common problems with the Volvo S40, based on complaints from owners of this car.
- Rotten Egg Smell: A smell of rotten eggs inside the car is often due to a catalytic converter failure. This issue can be resolved by replacing the faulty part, which can be costly but may also yield some cash from selling the damaged catalytic converter.
- Long Braking Distance: The S40 is known for its long braking distance, which is often due to worn-out brake rotors. Replacing the brake rotors is the only solution to this problem.
- Leaking Sunroof: Water leaking into the cabin through the sunroof is a common issue with the Volvo S40. This problem is typically caused by blocked drainage channels, which can be fixed by cleaning the top of the car to unblock those channels.
- Creaking Seats: The front seats of the S40 are prone to creaking, which is often mistakenly attributed to loose runners. The real issue is internal damage to the seats, which can only be resolved by replacing them with newer ones.
- Wobbly Key: The plastic electronic ignition key of the S40 can feel loose or wobbly in the slot, indicating a problem with the key or the slot. Both parts are expensive to replace, so it is crucial to address this issue as soon as possible.
- Instrument Panel Failure: The instrument panel of the S40 can fail, often due to a poor connection between the information display and the ECU. Refitting the connection should resolve the issue.
- Poor Starting/Loss of Power: The S40 can experience poor starting and loss of power during driving due to a clogged MAF (mass air flow) sensor. Cleaning the sensor with some MAF sensor cleaner should resolve the issue.
- Headlight Switch Failure: The headlight switch on earlier models of the S40 is prone to failing, which can be resolved by replacing the switch.
- Cracked Suspension Spring: If the car looks lopsided or feels like it's leaning one way or the other during a test drive, the problem is most likely a cracked suspension spring, which can be resolved by replacing the spring.
In conclusion, while the Volvo S40 is a great car, it is not without its problems. Owners of this car should be aware of these common issues and address them as soon as possible to avoid further damage and costly repairs.
What are problems on the Volvo S40?
There are two weak points in the oil system, the fuel pump and the water pump. When either of these fails, it causes overheating and means that your car will be using a lot more oil. If you're using excessive amounts of oil, or you notice any performance problems, checks that the pumps are both working correctly.
Is the Volvo S40 reliable?
The Volvo S40 Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 3rd out of 17 for luxury compact cars. The average annual repair cost is $693 which means it has average ownership costs. The severity of repairs is low while frequency of those issues is average, so major issues are uncommon for the S40.
How many miles will a Volvo S40 last?
It can also vary depending on the make and year of your Volvo. That being said, with the proper care the average lifespan of a Volvo is typically 20 years with over 200,000 miles.
Is Volvo S40 a safe car?
High level of theft protectionThe all-new Volvo S40 is a compact car with extremely high safety levels – both protective and preventive. Volvo's objective has been reached: the same high safety level in the new S40 as in the current S80 model.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Volvo S40 years
We have researched Volvo problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Volvo S40 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Volvo S40 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Volvo S40 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Volvo S40 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Volvo S40 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Volvo S40 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Volvo S40 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by S40 model years
A total of 46 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by S40 model years
There were a total of 12 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by S40 model years
There were a total of 23 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 524 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Volvo S40 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Volvo S40 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Volvo S40 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-20
- VIN: YV1MS390252
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact's wife owns a 2005 Volvo S40. The contact stated the vehicle was difficult to start for several days. Eventually, the failure progressed and the vehicle was not able to start. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was repaired by the contact, a previous Volvo technician. The contact stated the failure was due to the pump electrical module being located out of the vehicle. The contact spoke with the dealer. The contact referenced The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 170,000.
Volvo S40 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-05
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1390MSXA2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: I got into a car accident today. The electrical wiring is constantly giving out and I had no idea my airbags wouldn't work until today when they did not deploy. My car hit the other car enough to move it several feet and no airbags.
Volvo S40 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-03
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-24
- VIN: YV1MS382252
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The drivers seat belt does not lock/latch in properly. Everytime I enter the vehicle I reach for my seat belt and buckle myself, well so I thought I did. When I insert the belt it seems as though its buckles however once I start to drive the belt comes un done and it i always have to pull over to put it back on becsuse it locks the seat belt so I'm not able to just buckle back in.
Volvo S40 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-30
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-30
- VIN: YV1672MS1B2
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Windshield bonding has failed on the top edge of the windshield. It leaks and I can move the glass easily. I am worried that the windshield will fall out in a crash and reduce the airbag performance
Volvo S40 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-17
- Date Complaint: 2022-08-19
- VIN: Yv1MS382862
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Check engine light came on and stays in. Vehicle always sputters to start, acceleration is sometimes slow to respond, has stalled out on a rare occasion usual on hills. I’m afraid someday I might be involved in a crash because of a lack of acceleration.
Volvo S40 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-08
- Date Complaint: 2022-06-25
- VIN: YV1MS382862
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Check engine light came on and has stayed on. Stalled out in traffic, turned the car off and it restarted and I continued. Happens two more times. Initial start up has a delay in the engine turning over. Gas pedal is slow to respond to acceleration. Verified at a garage with code reader. Suspect faulty wiring (corrosion) to fuel pump needing PEM replacement. No warning prior to first incident around 02/2022. I have had the check engine light reset on multiple occasions and each time the light comes back on within 2 days. Safety has been a concern at multiple times. Entered VIN number with Volvo, a Volvo dealer, and nhtsa.gov with no help in resolving issue.
Volvo S40 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-02
- Date Complaint: 2022-06-15
- VIN: YV1382MSXA2
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The adhesive and seal on the entire top of my windshield has failed. The glass is shaking while driving and rattles severely if a small bump is driven over on the road. This is a huge safety concern since my window could break or fall off at any given moment.
Volvo S40 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-04
- Date Complaint: 2022-06-06
- VIN: YV1MH672882
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Volvo S40. The contact stated while his spouse was driving 70 MPH, the moon roof exploded. The vehicle was driven back to the residence. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 133,000.
Volvo S40 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-07
- Date Complaint: 2021-11-07
- VIN: YV1VS27503F
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine light stays on. I have had 2 mechanics check it out. They don't know why the light is on. I am very concerned about the fuel line problem.
Volvo S40 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-10
- Date Complaint: 2021-10-22
- VIN: YV1MS382192
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I purchased the 2009 Volvo on 10/5 at M&M Auto Sales LLC and on 10/9 at 6:20 am my vehicles check engine light turned on and a transmission service urgent light turned on. On 10/11 I went to AAMCO and they informed me that the transmission needed repairs costing up to 4k. When I purchased the car the dealership disclosed to me that the vehicle is in perfect condition. As of 10/21 I went to a Mechanic Shop called Pegoraro and ran a full auto diagnostic on the vehicle. With repairs on the vehicle costing $12,433.03 which involve fixes to the Timing Belt, Cooling System Fluid Exchange, Drive Belt Tensioner/Idle Assembly, Automatic Transmission Assembly, Remove and Install, Brake Fluid Exchange, and Lastly Disc Brake Pads, Rotors and Calipers (Rear). Obviously the vehicle isn't in "perfect condition". After getting this diagnostic I was informed that the vehicles Odometer has been tampered with as well as a bunch of other codes have been turned off before I purchased this vehicle. I just want a refund for this vehicle and to take my business elsewhere.
Volvo S40 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-02
- Date Complaint: 2021-09-02
- VIN: YV1672MS5A2
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The windshield is coming unglued at the top center and right . I am concerned that the windshield could come out on the highway, I plan to contact a windshield shop and see if they can repair it.
Volvo S40 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-03
- Date Complaint: 2021-08-10
- Crash: 1
- VIN: Yv1ms382282
- Components: SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: After buying the vehicle on 7/9/21, the car started having problems with the cooling system. I took it to a repair shop and they said the cooling system was overfilled. The air problem continued. I took it back to the dealership who said they fixed it but it continued. I contacted the prior Manufactuer service center who informed me the computer chip was recommended to be replaced when the dealer had it serviced but they declined, causing all the electrical and cooling issues. I called the dealer and they said they had the alarm disconnected also which was why the computer system wasn't working. The alarm system doesn't work and I have had to replace the key fob 3 times. I took it to another repair shop who diagnosed the following as permanent failure codes: 6 CEM codes, 1 ECM code, 6 SRS codes, 2 DIM codes, 11 CEM-HS codes, passenger and driver door codes, 4 climate control codes, 1EPS code, 4 SWM codes, DD11, all of which are safety hazards.
Volvo S40 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-23
- Date Complaint: 2021-06-30
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1VS2558YF
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: This is to describe airbag injuries. My car performed well. If not for the airbag and good construction of this Volvo I would not be here to ask for your help. I am wondering why we still use explosive materials and a device that causes so many injuries. There has to be another device to absorb the force of impact than an explosive device that injures, maim, and can kill people. I want to send images of my injuries which are extensive. Is this what happens each time the airbags ignite? I was close due to my small stature. The bag hit me in the chest and face. Volvo is a safe car. I was traveling at 55mph, a woman stopped her car in the passing lane feet in front of me, everyone was doing 55 mph and more. There was nowhere to go to escape the impact. Frederick, MD Hwy 15 South at 7th Street has many oncoming ramps, there needs to be warning about oncoming and stopped vehicles. The speed limit is 65mph before these fast-moving on-ramps. A flashing light would also help.
Volvo S40 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-15
- Date Complaint: 2021-03-18
- VIN: YV1MH682252
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 VOLVO S40. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNDISCLOSED SPEED, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL PUMP ELECTRONIC MODULE HAD FAILED DUE TO RUSTING AND CORROSION. THE FUEL PUMP ELECTRONIC MODULE WAS REPLACED AND THE FAILURE WAS REMEDIED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER 08V033000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD EXPERIENCED THE FAILURE LISTED IN THE RECALL. ADDITIONALLY, THE VEHICLE WAS ORIGINALLY SOLD IN THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA AND HAD BEEN DRIVEN IN THE STATE OF MICHIGAN THE PAST 6 YEARS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 147,000.
Volvo S40 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-07
- Date Complaint: 2020-12-08
- VIN: YV1MS682562
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: IN SOME OCCASIONS CAR WON'T START AND WHILE DRIVING THE CAR IT WOULD SHUT OFF UNEXPECTEDLY CAUSING A DANGEROUS SITUATION. I BELIEVE IT'S THE PUMP ELECTRONIC MODULE WHICH IS ALREADY RECALLED IN SOME CARS. ACCORDING TO YOUR RECALL I HAVE THE EXACT SAME SYMPTOMS BUT MY VIN NUMBER IS NOT PART OF THE RECALL.
Latest 5 recalls Volvo S40
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 29 recalls for different components of the Volvo S40.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Volvo S40 2011
- Report Received Date: 2011-03-18
- Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.
- Components: STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
- Summary: VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 S40 PASSENGER VEHICLES. A CRACK ON THE TOP SIDE OF THE PASSENGER SIDE SUPPORT MEMBER IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT MAY HAVE DEVELOPED DURING THE FORMING PROCESS IN COMPONENT PRODUCTION.
- Consequence: THE CRACK COULD HAVE AN EFFECT ON THE FRONT STRUCTURE AND MAY REDUCE THE CRASH PERFORMANCE OF THE VEHICLE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT FOR CRACKS ON THE TOP SIDE OF THE PASSENGER SIDE SUPPORT MEMBER IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. IF NO CRACK IS FOUND, NO FURTHER ACTION IS NEEDED. IF THE INSPECTION REVEALS THAT A VEHICLE HAS A CRACK IN THE SIDE SUPPORT MEMBER, THE VEHICLE WILL IMMEDIATELY BE TAKEN OUT OF SERVICE. A NEW REPLACEMENT VEHICLE OF EQUAL SPECIFICATION WILL BE PROVIDED BY VOLVO. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE APRIL 15, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLVO CUSTOMER CARE CENTER AT 1-800-458-1552, MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY, 8:30 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M. EST. OR E-MAIL AT [email protected].
- Model: Volvo S40 2010
- Report Received Date: 2010-11-22
- Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH POWER FRONT PASSENGER SEATS. THE FRONT SEAT RAIL'S DETECTION SYSTEM WAS MANUFACTURED INCORRECTLY AND MAY PERMIT THE PASSENGER TO FORWARD THE SEAT BEYOND THE INTENDED MAXIMUM.
- Consequence: POSITIONING OF THE SEAT BEYOND THE INTENDED MAXIMUM CAN CAUSE INCREASED RISK OF INJURY TO THE PASSENGER IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FRONT POWER SEAT STOPS FOR BOTH FRONT SEATS FOR THE PRESENCE OF AN "END STOP" AND REPAIR THE VEHICLES AS NECESSARY FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 23, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLVO AT 1-800-458-1552 OR AT [email protected].
- Model: Volvo S40 2009
- Report Received Date: 2010-11-22
- Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH POWER FRONT PASSENGER SEATS. THE FRONT SEAT RAIL'S DETECTION SYSTEM WAS MANUFACTURED INCORRECTLY AND MAY PERMIT THE PASSENGER TO FORWARD THE SEAT BEYOND THE INTENDED MAXIMUM.
- Consequence: POSITIONING OF THE SEAT BEYOND THE INTENDED MAXIMUM CAN CAUSE INCREASED RISK OF INJURY TO THE PASSENGER IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FRONT POWER SEAT STOPS FOR BOTH FRONT SEATS FOR THE PRESENCE OF AN "END STOP" AND REPAIR THE VEHICLES AS NECESSARY FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 23, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLVO AT 1-800-458-1552 OR AT [email protected].
- Model: Volvo S40 2011
- Report Received Date: 2010-11-22
- Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH POWER FRONT PASSENGER SEATS. THE FRONT SEAT RAIL'S DETECTION SYSTEM WAS MANUFACTURED INCORRECTLY AND MAY PERMIT THE PASSENGER TO FORWARD THE SEAT BEYOND THE INTENDED MAXIMUM.
- Consequence: POSITIONING OF THE SEAT BEYOND THE INTENDED MAXIMUM CAN CAUSE INCREASED RISK OF INJURY TO THE PASSENGER IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FRONT POWER SEAT STOPS FOR BOTH FRONT SEATS FOR THE PRESENCE OF AN "END STOP" AND REPAIR THE VEHICLES AS NECESSARY FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 23, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLVO AT 1-800-458-1552 OR AT [email protected].
- Model: Volvo S40 2006
- Report Received Date: 2010-11-08
- Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)
- Summary: VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH GARMIN 760 PORTABLE GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM (GPS) UNITS BECAUSE THE BATTERIES ON THOSE UNITS MAY OVERHEAT.
- Consequence: AN OVERHEATED BATTERY COULD LEAD TO A FIRE.
- Remedy: VOLVO ADVISES OWNERS TO PLEASE STOP USING THE GARMIN PORTABLE GPS DEVICE IMMEDIATELY, AND VISIT THE GARMIN WEBSITE TO DETERMINE IF THEIR UNIT IS AFFECTED. THE UNIT'S BATTERY WILL BE REPLACED WITH A NEW BATTERY AND A SPACER WILL BE INSERTED ON TOP OF THE BATTERY NEXT TO THE PCB. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 18, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT GARMIN AT 866-957-1981 OR VISIT GARMIN'S WEBSITE AT WWW.GARMIN.COM/NUVIBATTERYPCBRECALL.
Latest negative Volvo S40 car reviews
Latest positive Volvo S40 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2009
The Volvo S40 is a great vehicle for families, even if they are not morbidly obese. The seats are the best in its class and the rear leg room is adequate for most people. If you prefer an automatic transmission, the driver foot well may feel a bit narrow. Despite being 4 years old, the face-lifted 2008 model has finally done justice to the S40's lines and shape. Its sophisticated design and beauty are on par with other 2008 cars. It's surprising to see such an attractive Volvo! The comfortable road manner and silky smooth ride are what make Volvo stand out. Although BMW used to be exclusive, they are now everywhere.
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Vehicle year: 2000
I have personally experienced the exceptional performance of my Volvo, which has clocked 157k miles and still runs flawlessly, except for a minor issue with the O2 sensor. Volvo has always been renowned for manufacturing high-quality cars that are durable and long-lasting, provided they are maintained properly. Additionally, Volvo cars are known for their safety features. In my opinion, Volvo is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a fast, fun, and reliable car. I hope you share my enthusiasm for Volvo.
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Vehicle year: 2003
I'm so glad to hear that you've had such a positive experience with your S40! I understand that you were initially hesitant to purchase the car due to some negative reviews, but it sounds like you made the right decision. The 2003 S40 is truly a great value for the price, and it's wonderful to hear that you found it to be more luxurious and fun to drive than the Accord. Plus, it's always nice to have a car that stands out from the crowd! Thank you for sharing your recommendation, and I hope you continue to enjoy your S40 for years to come.
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Vehicle year: 2003
We searched high and low for an affordable and safe car that wouldn't be a status symbol, and we found the 2000 S40. I was looking for a dependable and fun commuter car that would last for many years. So far, I have not had any mechanical problems, and I do most of my own maintenance. The dealer has treated me like royalty, which has been great. Although it's not a family car for four, it works out fine for our family of three! We purchased the car in August of 2000, and it came loaded with all the features except heated seats. We absolutely love it!
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Vehicle year: 2008
Last year, I had a scary experience while driving on the interstate. A large piece of steel fell off a truck and bounced into my lane while I was traveling at about 60mph. Although my 2006 S40 was totaled, I was fortunate to only have a sore back for a couple of weeks. As someone who has worked as an auto appraiser for 6 years, I consider myself an expert on assessing damage. I was impressed with how well the car held up during the accident, and it's the reason why I chose to purchase a 2008 S40. I've had my 2008 for about a year now and I absolutely love it!
Are you having problems with your Volvo S40?
Edd Paucek 2025-06-03
Vehicle year: 2000
Hi there! I noticed that I have one more year to go and I am ready to get something else. Unfortunately, I've had to replace the engine, front and rear brakes, and the headlamp bulbs numerous times. Do you have any suggestions on what I should do?
Andrew Goodwin 2025-05-27
Vehicle year: 2001
I purchased this car in 2009 as the second owner, with 135,000 miles on it. The Carfax report showed that it had always been serviced at a Volvo dealer. Unfortunately, I experienced several problems with the car within weeks of purchase. Over the course of three and a half years, I had to replace the sunroof shade, bad plugs, engine mounts, both engine coils, cv joint, blown head gasket, new radiator, o2 sensors, catalytic converter, Cvvt valve leaking oil, cvvt valve sensor clogged, climate control, radio, and window regulator. I spent over $4000.00 in repairs in the past year alone. Unfortunately, the transmission went out yesterday, and I have decided to move on from this car. As an aircraft mechanic, I take good care of my vehicles and change the oil regularly. However, based on my experience, I will not be purchasing a Volvo again.
Lisandro Zieme 2025-05-24
Vehicle year: 2003
My S40 has gone through three sets of rear brake pads and one set of rotors in just 50,000 miles. While Volvo claims this is normal wear for our pads and that there are no problems with the braking system, I find it hard to believe that rear brake pads only last 12 to 15 thousand miles. I have also had to replace the front pads once, which seem to hold better. Additionally, I have had to replace bad fuel injectors, the gas gauge, and several light bulbs. Despite these issues, I remain confident in my decision to lease this car and look forward to exploring other options when my lease is up.
Cordell Feest 2025-05-13
Vehicle year: 2003
The car has required frequent repairs since we acquired it, averaging once per month. Despite Volvo's multiple attempts to recalibrate the gas gauge, it still does not function properly. Additionally, we have had to replace two headlights and have experienced other issues. However, we are currently exploring options to replace the vehicle. While my first car was a Volvo, this will likely be my last due to the issues we have experienced.
Jamison Dare 2025-05-13
Vehicle year: 2005
The Volvo S40 has proven to be unreliable since the day of purchase. The AC switches on/off and turns to heat in the middle of summer, and even changing the battery requires towing to the dealership for a computer reset. The recent starter failure has further confirmed my decision to never purchase a Volvo again. In contrast, Honda vehicles have proven to be much more reliable and hold their resale value better. Thank you for considering my experience with the Volvo S40.