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: 2004
I used to think that Volvos were too plain for my taste, but not anymore. As soon as you lay eyes on the new S40, you realize that this isn't your mother's Volvo. It has a much more aggressive look than their other sedans, especially with the sport package. The interior is just as impressive. The navigation system controls have been improved, with the driver now having more of a joystick on the wheel to cycle through options, making it incredibly easy to use. Additionally, there is still a remote control.
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Vehicle year: 2004
This car is amazing! I was considering the Accord and Camry, but they don't even compare to this one. The Mistral Green color is beautiful and the fit & finish are excellent. What's even better is that safety comes standard with this car line. The center control is like a remote, and there are so many things you can program. You don't even have to worry about turning your lights on or off because it does it automatically! The engine is responsive and fuel-efficient, which is perfect for my upcoming travels. I'm so glad I chose this car because I don't have to pay extra for the safety features that come standard with it. Trust me, you won't regret driving it.
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Vehicle year: 2009
My Volvo S40 T5 AWD is my first Volvo. I replaced a Saab 9-3. I have only owned the Volvo for a month, however I can say that this is a very solid automobile. The ride and handling are excellent. The AWD gives a feeling of being glued to the road. I used the vehicle during a recent New England snowstorm and the car did not slide at all. There was never any wheel spin. The fit and finish are second to none. The leather seats are extremely comfortable and can be adjusted for a perfect fit. The car is solid for a smaller vehicle. It feels as if; it is cut out of a single piece of Swedish steel. The interior design is simple and clean, yet elegant. The exterior design stands out.
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Vehicle year: 2008
If you grew up in the 1980s, you might remember Volvos as the boxy yuppy-mobiles that your hip friend's parents drove. But today, Volvos are still hip, and they're anything but boxy. The S40 is a great entry-level sports sedan for the post-college crowd. It's attractive, but you can still tell that it's built like a tank. The huge door pillars and the reassuring thud when the doors close are a testament to the car's safety. The materials inside are both durable and attractive, and the controls are easy to read. There is some turbo-lag off the line, but when you're cruising at 25 mph on the freeway on-ramp and need to get to 75 mph in a hurry, this car really flies in the mid-range.
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Vehicle year: 2008
My Volvo S40 T5 AWD is my first Volvo. I replaced a Saab 9-3. I have only owned the Volvo for a month, however I can say that this is a very solid automobile. The ride and handling are excellent. The AWD gives a feeling of being glued to the road. I used the vehicle during a recent New England snowstorm and the car did not slide at all. There was never any wheel spin. The fit and finish are second to none. The leather seats are extremely comfortable and can be adjusted for a perfect fit. The car is solid for a smaller vehicle. It feels as if; it is cut out of a single piece of Swedish steel. The interior design is simple and clean, yet elegant. The exterior design stands out.
Are you having problems with your Volvo S40?
Brandon McLaughlin 2025-07-14
Vehicle year: 2006
I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to share my experience with my Volvo S40, which has been a great car overall. However, I have encountered an issue with the electronic control module that unfortunately has not been addressed with a recall. Despite having taken great care of my car since purchasing it brand new in 2005, I am now experiencing a major electrical issue at 149,500 miles. While driving, the gauges will shut off, making it difficult to determine my speed or fuel level. Additionally, several warning lights will appear, including ABS, airbag, brake, and brake failure. Starting the car has also become a challenge, often requiring multiple attempts. It has been quite frustrating. I have been quoted $1400 by Volvo for the replacement of the control module. Thank you for taking the time to read my message.
Sedrick Stark 2025-07-09
Vehicle year: 2003
Hi there! I remember shopping for a car back in 02 and ultimately choosing the Volvo S40 over the Acura RSX, Saab 93, and Audi A4. At the time, I thought it seemed luxurious and the dealer promised it was a 'performance' car. Plus, with the Ford Aplan discount, it was the cheapest option. However, I ended up having a pretty bad experience with the car. To be fair, I think Volvo just struggles with making small cars. The 'performance' was a bit of a letdown and the handling could be a little scary at highway speeds. When passing at high speeds, the car wobbled -- literally. The braking was also pretty bad, with the nose dipping and the car taking too long to stop. Overall, I wouldn't recommend this car.
Xavier Ledner 2025-07-07
Vehicle year: 2011
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to touch base with you about your car. I remember purchasing mine back in 2011 with only 16,000 miles and being so excited about it! However, I did have a bit of trouble with the driver side door not latching properly and had to take it back to the shop within 3 weeks. Since then, I've had a couple of other minor issues, like a programming problem that caused it not to start and a grinding noise while cornering. Recently, I was told that I need to replace all the tires at 30k miles, but apparently that's common for this model. Have you experienced anything similar with your car?
Lucious Daugherty 2025-07-03
Vehicle year: 2000
I have had a negative experience with my Volvo and will not be purchasing another one. The car has required multiple repairs for issues such as coil springs, thermostat, sensors, and throttle position. Additionally, there have been concerning incidents such as the car accelerating on its own. There have also been issues with the window and sunroof parts falling off, as well as the radio antenna. While I appreciate my time with the car, I am disappointed with the overall quality and reliability.
Heber Willms 2025-07-03
Vehicle year: 2003
I was surprised by how high maintenance the car was. In addition to the ride and safety, I had to replace the brakes every 15,000 miles and get a tune-up every 7,500 miles (which cost over $500 if done by Volvo). I also had to replace 6 headlights in 6 months (thankfully covered by warranty) and the A/C needed work. I was happy to see it go and opted for a more reliable and smoother riding Toyota.