2002 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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Common 2002 Volvo S40 problems
The Volvo S40, produced between 1996 and 2004, has been known for several common problems that owners have reported over the years. These issues range from mechanical faults to electrical problems and interior design flaws.
One of the most critical mechanical issues is related to the suspension ball joints. These components tend to wear out rapidly, causing knocking sounds when the steering wheel is turned to full lock in both directions. If not addressed promptly, this issue can lead to more severe suspension problems and expensive repairs.
Another significant concern is the potential for fuel leaks, brake problems, and airbag issues. These faults have led to recalls of the Volvo S40, making it essential for potential buyers to check that all necessary work has been done, preferably by a Volvo dealer.
Early models of the S40 are known to have poorly built interiors, with loose trim being a common problem. Therefore, potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the interior of any early model they are considering.
Electrical problems are also prevalent in the Volvo S40, with wiring looms prone to corrosion. This corrosion can lead to various expensive electrical issues, so it is crucial to have a knowledgeable acquaintance check the wiring loom for potential problems.
The GDI engines in the Volvo S40 were designed to run on super-unleaded fuel, and using lower-octane petrol can cause problems as the miles accumulate. This issue is particularly relevant to those considering high-mileage examples of the S40.
The front seats in the S40 are known to creak excessively when the driver or passenger sits on them. This issue is typically due to internal damage on the seats themselves, and the only remedy is to replace the seats with newer ones.
The instrument panel in the Volvo S40 can fail, often due to a poor connection between the information display and the ECU. This problem can be relatively inexpensive to repair, provided the issue is correctly diagnosed.
The MAF (mass air flow) sensor in the S40 can become clogged, leading to poor starting and a loss of power during driving. This issue can be resolved by removing and cleaning the MAF sensor with specialized cleaner.
The headlight switch in earlier models of the S40 is prone to failing, requiring replacement to fix the problem.
There is also a leak that can occur from the turbocharger return pipe seal, which should be addressed promptly to avoid engine damage.
A smell of rotten eggs inside the car can indicate a catalytic converter failure, which will require replacement.
The brakes in the Volvo S40 can suffer from overly long stopping distances, which can lead to potential collisions. This issue is caused by faulty brake rotors and requires replacement of the affected parts.
Water can enter the vehicle through the sunroof due to blocked drainage channels. This issue can be resolved by cleaning the channels to ensure proper water drainage.
The 1.6-liter S40 model is known to require a large and constant supply of engine oil to prevent sludging up, with weak points in the fuel and water pumps potentially causing overheating and poor running of the vehicle.
The rear wheel studs in 2008 Volvo S40 models are known to suffer from a fault, which was addressed by a large recall by Volvo. Potential buyers should ensure that this issue has been addressed in the vehicle's service history.
The front suspension in the S40 T5 model can suffer from premature wear, affecting the vehicle's ability to provide a smooth and stable ride. This issue requires replacement of the old bushes with newer polystyrene versions.
In summary, the Volvo S40 has several common problems that potential buyers should be aware of, including suspension ball joint wear, fuel leaks, airbag concerns, poorly built interiors, electrical issues, and problems with the GDI engines. Additionally, specific models of the S40 have unique issues, such as creaking seats, instrument panel failures, MAF sensor problems, headlight switch faults, turbocharger return pipe leaks, catalytic converter failures, brake issues, sunroof water leaks, engine sludging, rear wheel stud faults, and front suspension wear.
What is the common problem with 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 Volvo S40 a reliable car?
The Volvo S40 is generally considered a reliable vehicle because of its decent ownership costs, great gas mileage, and above-average consumer ratings. Many owners of the S40 rarely bring in their vehicles for major repairs.
How many miles can you put on a Volvo S40?
The estimated lifespan of a Volvo S40 is 286,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Fuel type is a major factor when looking into a vehicles lifespan/life expectancy.
Why did Volvo stop making the S40?
Volvo will stop selling its mid-size sedan, the S40, and its station wagon “twin”, the V50, in the USA during the 2012 MY. The reason? You guessed it; poor sales.
What is the common problem with 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 Volvo S40 a reliable car?
The Volvo S40 is generally considered a reliable vehicle because of its decent ownership costs, great gas mileage, and above-average consumer ratings. Many owners of the S40 rarely bring in their vehicles for major repairs.
What is the fuel consumption of a 2002 Volvo S40?
7.5 to 8.1L/100km
Volvo S40 2002 Fuel consumption
The Volvo S40 currently offers fuel consumption from 7.5 to 8.1L/100km.
Why did Volvo stop making the S40?
Volvo will stop selling its mid-size sedan, the S40, and its station wagon “twin”, the V50, in the USA during the 2012 MY. The reason? You guessed it; poor sales.
2002 Volvo S40 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volvo S40 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Volvo S40 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2002 Volvo S40
The NHTSA has received 30 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Volvo S40. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2002 Volvo S40 vehicles.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-20
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 VOLVO S40. THE CONTACT INQUIRED ABOUT GETTING HER VEHICLE INCLUDED IN AN OPEN RECALL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A DELAY WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT SHE OBSERVED A FUEL ODOR INSIDE THE VEHICLE AND SHE WAS CONCERNED OF A FUEL LEAK. IN ADDITION, THE CHECK ENGINE INDICATOR ILLUMINATED BEFORE AND AFTER THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT SPECIFICALLY INQUIRED ABOUT NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 08V033000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE) AND CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 06V137000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE CONTACT SCHEDULED AN APPOINTMENT WITH 128 VOLVO CARS (614 NORTH AVE, WAKEFIELD, MA). THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-09-21
- VIN: YV1VS29542F
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING ON A MAIN ROAD AND MY BRAKES FAILED. IT WAS DETERMINED THAT A BRAKE LINE CORRODED THROUGH. IT APPEARS THAT THE VEHICLE HAS A SINGLE MASTER BRAKE CYLINDER. I ASKED A VOLVO DEALERSHIP ABOUT THIS, AND THEY CONFIRMED TO ME THAT THE MASTER BRAKE CYLINDER IS A SINGLE ONE. IT IS MY UNDERSTANDING THAT IN THE 80'S, ALL VEHICLES SOLD IN THE UNITED STATES WERE TO HAVE A DUAL MASTER BRAKE CYLINDER. *LN
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-01-02
- VIN: YV1VS29512F
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE RIGHT FRONT AND RIGHT REAR COIL SPRINGS BROKE AND THE FRONT COIL SPRING DAMAGED THE TIRE. DEALER STOCKS THESE EXPENSIVE SPRINGS (BOTH FRONT AND REAR) IN LARGER THAN NORMAL AMOUNTS DUE TO INCIDENCES OF BREAKAGE. I FEEL THAT THIS WAS AN EARLY FAILURE FOR THIS TYPE AND AGE OF VEHICLE AND SHOULD IT HAVE BEEN A A HIGHER SPEED THE INCIDENT COULD HAVE BEEN SEVERE. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-24
- VIN: YV1VS29522F
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 VOLVO S40. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED WHILE REVERSING AND THE PEDAL TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD ABNORMALLY. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A LOCAL MECHANIC WHERE THE MECHANIC ADVISED THAT THERE WAS A CRACK IN THE MASTER CYLINDER. THE MASTER CYLINDER WAS REPLACED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED WHILE IN REVERSE. THE MECHANIC WAS CONTACTED A SECOND TIME WHO ADVISED THE CONTACT OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 04V493000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS) AND INFORMED THE CONTACT TO CALL A DEALER. THE CONTACT CALLED THE DEALER REGARDING THE RECALL BUT THE DEALER STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT FURTHER REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000. UPDATED 10/04/11 *BF THE CONSUMER STATED HE WAS EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS WITH THE BRAKES ON HIS VEHICLE. WHEN HE BACKED OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY, THE BRAKE PEDAL WOULD SINK TO THE FLOOR. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS PUT IN DRIVE, THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO ROLL WHEN THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED. INITIALLY, THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED THERE WAS A CRACK IN THE MASTER CYLINDER, WHICH WAS REPLACED. AFTER THE REPLACEMENT, THE SAME PROBLEM OCCURRED, THE CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE BACK TO THE REPAIR SHOP AND WAS THEN INFORMED, THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THE BRAKE VACUUM PUMP. THE CONSUMER CALLED THE DEALER AND WAS INFORMED THERE WAS A RECALL. HOWEVER, HIS VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. UPDATED 10/05/11
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-10-20
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1VS29592F
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 VOLVO S40. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH THE CONTACT ENGAGED THE BRAKES WHEN THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF HER SLOWED DOWN CAUSING A CRASH. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO SLOW DOWN WHEN THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED. THE CONTACT WAS NOT INJURED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACTS VEHICLE HAD FRONT END DAMAGES. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A LOCAL MECHANIC REPLACED ALL OF THE LEFT FRONT LIGHTS, THE HOOD, THE BUMPER AND THE FENDER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 104,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 104,900.
SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-06-06
- VIN: YV1VS29512F
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: FRONT END SUSPENSION ISN'T RIGHT,PULLS WHEN DRIVING AND THERE IS A KNOCKING ITEMS NHTSA 10016415 AND 630879. CHECK ENGINE HAS ALWAYS BEEN ON 10003441. THERE IS A CLUNKING NOISE WHEN SHIFTING 10003398. THERE WAS NEVER AN ACCIDENT THESE ARE JUST ONGOING THINGS AND THE SUSPENSION MAY CAUSE AN ACCIDENT AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT IS HARD TO GET PASSED FOR INSPECTION IN NC. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-03-01
- VIN: YV1VS29522F
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: BOTH REAR SPRINGS BROKE, VEHICLE HAD LESS THEN 40K MILES. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-22
- VIN: YV1VS29592F
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 VOLVO S40. THE VEHICLE HESITATED WHEN IT WAS STARTED BY THE CONTACT. THE WINTER WEATHER DRIVING WARNING INDICATOR ARROW AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT REMAINED ILLUMINATED AFTER TURNING THE VEHICLE ON AN OFF. ON JUNE 23, 2007, THE DEALER ADVISED THE CONTACT NOT TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE UNTIL IT WAS DIAGNOSED. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD A FAULTY TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE AND THE ORIGINAL BATTERY WAS WEAK. THE ESTIMATED COST OF REPAIR IS $1,000, WHICH DOES NOT GUARANTEE THAT THE FAILURE WILL NOT RECUR. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 42,000.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-18
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY
- Summary: TYPES OF RECURRING ISSUES WITH VOLVO S40: HEADLIGHTS, DRIVER FRONT WINDOW MOTOR, EARLY BRAKE PAD WEAR. HEADLIGHT BULBS WERE REPLACED 2-3 TIMES A YEAR AT CONSUMER'S COST. WHEN BROUGHT TO THE ATTENTION OF VOLVO DEALER THEY REPORTED THAT IT WAS PROBABLY DUE TO LIGHTS BEING USED DURING DAYLIGHT. THEY CHECK ELECTRICAL AND REPORTED NO ISSUE. HAD BRAKE PAD AND ROTOR ISSUED SHORTLY AFTER PURCHASING THE VEHICLE. VOLVO DEALER REPORTED VOLVO ROTORS WERE BUILT THIN AND SOFT. COST OF BRAKE REPLACEMENT WAS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY AS IT WAS CONSIDERED REGULAR WEAR. DRIVER SIDE WINDOW REGULATOR HAS BEEN REPLACED THREE TIMES. FIRST REGULATOR WAS REPLACED IN JUNE 2005, THEN FEBRUARY 2006 AND NOW MAY 2007. MAY 2007 REGULATOR WAS AT THE COST OF THE CONSUMER AS WARRANTY HAD EXPIRED AND WARRANTY ON PART ONLY LASTS 12 MONTHS EVEN THOUGH THERE IS AN APPARENT PROBLEM.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-02-02
- VIN: YV1VS29522F
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*- THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE ATTEMPTING TO DRIVE THE 2002 VOLVO S40 HE TURNED THE KEY IN THE IGNITION AND A THICK BLACK SMOKE CAME FROM THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE DOOR PANEL AND FILLED THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE IMMEDIATELY. THE CONTACT TURNED THE VEHICLE OFF AND EXITED THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A VOLVO DEALER AND THEY COULD NOT FIND THE CAUSE OF THE SMOKE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGE WERE 30,000.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-03-01
- VIN: YV1VS29591F
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL* - THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 VOLVO S40. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ENGINEWAS IDLING HIGH. VOLVO STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS OPERATING NORMALLY. THE RPM SURGE OCCURRED FREQUENTLY WHEN THE CONTACTWAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON PERIODICALLY. THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THIS FAILURE ON ALL VOLVO MODELS, BUT NOT FOR THE 240 MODEL. *AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-08-09
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I BOUGHT A 2002 VOLVO S40 FROM AN INDIVIDUAL IN JANUARY OF 2004. IN A MATTER OF 3 MONTHS IN 2005, I HAD TO REPLACE MY PASSENGER HEADLIGHT 3 DIFFERENT TIMES AND MY DRIVER HEADLIGHT 2 DIFFERENT TIMES. I CALLED THE VOLVO DEALER AND THEY SAID THAT A BULB SHOULD LAST AROUND 2 YEARS. IN THE NEXT MONTH, MY PASSENGER HEADLIGHT WENT OUT AGAIN. I GOT UNDER THE HOOD TO REPLACE IT AS USUAL. WHEN I PULLED THE BLACK PLASTIC PIECE THAT CONTAINS THE MALE PART TO THE WIRE CONNECTION AND ACTS AS THE BULB SOCKET, IT WAS MELTED. IT WAS MELTED TO THE POINT THAT I COULD NOT GET THE BULB OUT UNTIL I USED PLIERS. I TOOK MY CAR TO THE VOLVO DEALER AND THEY SAID THAT I WOULD HAVE TO REPLACE THE WHOLE HEADLIGHT COMPARTMENT. SINCE VOLVO HEADLIGHT COMPARTMENTS ARE "FACTORY SEALED", THEY WOULD NOT BREAK THE SEAL. I WOULD HAVE TO BUY A BRAND NEW ONE @ $500. I DID NOT DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT, BECAUSE I AM NOT PAYING FOR A WHOLE NEW HEADLIGHT COMPARTMENT FOR A PIECE OF PLASTIC THE SIZE OF MY THUMB. TWO DAYS LATER, THE DRIVER SIDE BULB WENT OUT AND IT DID THE SAME EXACT THING, MELTED. THIS LEFT ME WITH NO HEADLIGHTS! WITHOUT $1000 TO SPEND ON TWO NEW HEADLIGHT COMPARTMENTS (INSTALLED), I DROVE DURING THE DAY. I FOUND, MYSELF, THAT THE WIRES (POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE) THAT ARE CONNECTED TO THE BLACK PLASTIC SOCKET ARE FAIRLY CLOSE TOGETHER AND ARE NOT SHIELDED FROM ONE ANOTHER. SO, WHEN THE WIRING HARNESS FOR THE HEADLIGHTS WAS PUT TOGETHER, THEY DID NOT PLACE THE WIRES NICE AND NEAT IN THERE TO WHERE THERE WAS NO WAY THEY WOULD TOUCH. WHEN I CAME TO THIS CONCLUSION, I PUT BLACK ELECTRICAL TAPE AROUND THE TWO WIRES (POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE) IN EACH HEADLIGHT COMPARTMENT SO THAT NOTHING ABOUT THE WIRE WOULD TOUCH AND OBVIOUSLY HAD TO PUT NEW BULBS IN. THIS HAPPENED DURING THE SECOND AND THIRD WEEK OF AUGUST 2005. SINCE, I HAVE NOT HAD ANY PROBLEMS. I HAVE ALSO REPLACED BOTH LICENSE PLATES BULBS, THE REAR FOG LIGHT BULB, AND ALL FOUR BRAKE LIGHTS. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-11-26
- VIN: YV1VS29552F
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I PURCHASED A 2002 VOLVO S40 WHICH FROM THE DEALERSHIP IN JUNE 2002. IT WAS MY FIRST NEW CAR. ABOUT A YEAR AND HALF AGO, WITHOUT A WARNING LIGHT -COMING ON TO ALERT ME OF AN IMPENDING PROBLEM, THE CAR BEGAN EMITTING HEAVY BLACK SMOKE FROM THE EXHAUST SYSTEM. THE CAR HAD GONE THROUGH AN OIL CHANGE JUST 200 MILES BEFORE. WHEN THE CAR WAS BROUGHT TO THE DEALERSHIP, THEY INFORMED ME THAT DUE TO MY WAITING TOO LONG TO CHANGE OIL, THE TURBO FAILED AND OIL MAY HAVE GOTTEN INTO THE ENGINE, MAKING IT NECESSARY FOR ME TO REPLACE THE ENGINE AND THE TURBO. THE DEALERSHIP REFUSED TO HONOR THE WARRANTY AND INSISTED THAT I SPEND A $3000-$6000 FOR THE REPAIR/REPLACEMENT AFTER SOME DISCUSSION, THE DEALERSHIP PROPOSED CLEANING THE ENGINE AND REPLACING THE TURBO AS AN ALTERNATIVE. AS THE PRICE WAS EXORBITANT, I TOOK THE CAR TO AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP WHICH PERFORMED THE TURBO REPLACEMENT AND ENGINE CLEAN-UP, CHANGING THE OIL AND COOLANT. THE CAR RAN FINE WITHOUT A PROBLEM UNTIL 11/26/05 WHEN THE ENGINE, AT 57,000 MILES BUT OUT OF WARRANTY, BEGAN EMITTING WHITE SMOKE AT THE FRONT AND REAR OF THE CAR. FORTUNATELY I WAS ABLE TO DRIVE THE CAR TO A REPUTABLE REPAIR SHOP WHICH DIAGNOSED THE PROBLEM AS A TURBO FAILURE (FAILURE #2). THE ENGINE WAS CLEANED AS BEST THE SHOP COULD AND THE TURBO REPLACED AT SUBSTANTIAL EXPENSE. WHEN THE REPAIR WAS COMPLETED, I DROVE THE CAR 200 MILES TO BRING IT HOME WITHOUT INCIDENT. THE NEXT MORNING IT BEGAN TO MAKE ODD NOISES. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD THAT THE ENGINE NEEDED REPLACEMENT AND THE TURBO HAD BROKEN (FAILURE #3)--PRICE TAG $6600. I AM CONVINCED THAT I WAS SOLD A DEFECTIVE S40 AT THE OUTSET,AND THE PROBLEMS I'VE EXPERIENCED I RELATE TO THE DEALERS UNWILLINGNESS TO HONOR THE WARRANTY WHEN IT WAS STILL ALIVE AND FIX THE DEFECTIVE ENGINE/TURBO ON A NEW CAR. I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER VOLVO, AND I DO NOT RECOMMEND THAT ANYONE ELSE BUY ONE . *JB
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-10-25
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: YV1VS29552F
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CRACK IN UPPER TANK OF SENDING UNIT RESULTING IN GAS LEAKAGE. 15 MONTH OLD DAUGHTER MAY HAVE BEEN AFFECTED BY THE TOXIC FUMES. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-07-16
- VIN: YV1VS29552F
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: IT HAS BEEN 4 TIMES ALREADY (SINCE AUGUST 2002) THAT MY CAR'S ENGINE HAS STALLED WHILE DRIVING. IN ALL INSTANCES THE ENGINE STARTS BACK UP AGAIN. I NOTICE RIGHT AWAY BECAUSE I LOOSE THE POWER STEERING. FIRST TIME [AUGUST 2, 2002]: THE FIRST DAY I BOUGHT THE CAR (BRAND NEW) I WAS AT A RED LIGHT AND THE CAR TURNED OFF. SECOND TIME: THIS WAS LIKE SEVERAL MONTHS AFTER. I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AND THE ENGINE TURNED OFF. THIRD TIME [JUNE 7, 2005]: I LEFT MY CAR AT THE DEALER FOR AN OIL CHANGE. THE DEALER TOOK MY CAR FOR A TEST DRIVE AND THE ENGINE STALLED ON HIM. I TOLD THEM THAT I HAS HAPPENED TO ME 2 TIMES PREVIOUSLY. THEY REPLACED THE STARTER SWITCH FOR THAT REASON. FOURTH TIME [JULY 16, 2005:] I WAS DRIVING UPHILL ON A ZONE WITH TIGHT CURVES AND THE CAR STALLED AGAIN. THIS TIME I ALMOST HAD AN ACCIDENT CAUSE THE TURNS WERE TIGHT AND I HAD NO POWER STEERING. *JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-01
- VIN: YV1VS29532F
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: IN SEPTEMBER OF 2004, I BEGAN EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS WITH MY VOLVO S40 SEDAN. THE VEHICLE WOULD SHUT OFF WHILE I WAS OPERATING IT FOR NO APPARENT REASON. I TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER TWICE AND THEN CONTACTED THE VOLVO CUSTOMER CARE DEPARTMENT FOLLOWING AN INCIDENT WHEN THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF WHILE I WAS IN A VERY BUSY INTERSECTION IN TOWN. I NARROWLY AVOIDED A VERY SERIOUS CRASH. THEY SENT A REGIONAL TECHNICIAN TO THE VOLVO DEALER. VOLVO HAD THE CAR FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME AND SAID WHILE THEY COULD NOT DETERMINE THE PROBLEM, THEY REPLACED SEVERAL PARTS. I EXPERIENCED NO FURTHER PROBLEMS UNTIL JUNE OF 2005 WHEN THE EXACT PROBLEM RESURFACED. WHEN I TOOK THE CAR BACK TO THE DEALER AND CONTACTED VOLVO CUSTOMER CARE, THEY INDICATED TO ME THAT THEY STILL COULD NOT TELL WHAT WAS WRONG WITH THE CAR AND SO THEY WOULD NOT "THROW PARTS" AT A CAR. MY HUSBAND AND I ARE BOTH IN LAW ENFORCEMENT AND KNOW FIRSTHAND THE DEVASTATION OF CAR CRASHES. WE FELT SO UNSAFE IN THE VEHICLE, THAT WE DECIDED TO TRADE IT IN JULY OF 2005....A VERY COSTLY AND FINANCIALLY DEVASTATING RESULT. (WE LOST OVER $4,300) HOWEVER, I FELT TOO GUILTY TO SELL THE CAR TO ANYONE PRIVATELY. I WAS SO DISAPPOINTED THAT VOLVO REFUSED TO DEAL WITH THIS PROBLEM AND LEFT ME NO OTHER CHOICES THAN TO DRIVE IN A VERY UNSAFE CAR, OR FACE FINANCIAL DEVASTATION. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-07-20
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: VEHICLE BEING REPORTED IS A 2002 VOLVO S40 SEDAN. TRAVELING ON US ROUTE 13 SOUTH OF DOVER, DE. AND SLOWED DOWN FOR A TRAFFIC LIGHT IN MEDIUM TRAFFIC FROM A SPEED OF APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH. VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING DURING DECELERATION. VEHICLE RESTARTED WITH SOME EFFORT. AT NEXT LIGHT, SITUATION REPEATED ITSELF - VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING DURING DECELERATION. PLACED TRANSMISSION IN NEUTRAL TO COAST WHILE ATTEMPTING TO RESTART. VEHICLE RESTARTED ONLY WHEN ACCELERATOR WAS PARTIALLY DEPRESSED CAUSING ENGINE TO REV UP. VEHICLE CONTINUED TO STALL WHEN SPEED DROPPED TO APPROXIMATELY 25-30 MPH UNLESS THE ACCELERATOR WAS DEPRESSED TO MAINTAIN ENGINE RPM WHILE BRAKES WERE BEING APPLIED TO SLOW VEHICLE DOWN. CRITICAL SITUATION TRAVELING IN AREA WITH LOW SPEED LIMITS AND TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES SUCH AS STOP SIGNS AND TRAFFIC LIGHTS. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO LOCAL VOLVO DEALER WHO DETERMINED THAT A DEVICE THAT CONTROLS THE AIR GOING INTO THE ENGINE WAS AT FAULT. REPAIRS WERE MADE AT A TOTAL COST OF $600. *JB
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-08-04
- VIN: YV1SZ58D921
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING MY CAR YESTERDAY AUGUST 4TH, 2005 AND ALL OF A SUDDEN THE ACCELERATOR WOULD NOT WORK. I WAS IN THE MIDDLE OF AN INTERSECTION AND HAD TO COAST THE CAR TO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD. VERY SCARY WITH A 1 MONTH OLD INFANT IN MY BACK SEAT AND A VERY BUSY INTERSECTION. I TOOK THE CAR TO THE VOLVO DEALER OF PLEASANTON YESTERDAY WHO SAID HE WOULD HAVE TO REPLACE THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL ASSEMBLY. THE SAME THING HAPPENED ONCE BEFORE ABOUT 2 MONTHS AGO IN WALNUT CREEK ON A SIDE STREET. AFTER I COASTED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD, I RESTARTED THE CAR WITHOUT A PROBLEM. *JB
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-01
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: VOLVO S40 2002 HEADLIGHTS BURNED OUT, REPLACED 4-5 TIMES. *BF THE CONSUMER BELIEVED THIS TO BE POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS SINCE THE HEAD LIGHTS WERE BEING USED AS DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS. *JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-20
- VIN: YV1VS29502F
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAVE HAD TO REPLACE A HEADLIGHT 3 TIMES AND A TAILLIGHT 2 TIMES, A CONSOLE LIGHT, AND THE FUSE TO MY CIGARETTE LIGHTER IN MY 2002 VOLVO S40; 5 OF THESE THINGS IN THE LAST SIX WEEKS. THE VOLVO DEALERSHIP SAYS VOLVOS NOW ( THEY DIDN'T SPECIFY ANY PARTICULAR YEAR OF VOLVOS) ARE BLOWING HEADLIGHTS SO FREQUENTLY, THAT THE CUSTOMER REPS KEEP HEADLIGHT BULBS IN THEIR DESK DRAWERS AND REPLACE THEM FOR FREE. TO ME, THIS MEANS EITHER THERE IS A SIGNIFICANT PROBLEM WITH THE VOLVO VOLTAGE REGULATORS OR THIS PARTICULAR VOLVO DEALERSHIP IS PUTTING ME OFF TO TRY KEEP THIS REPAIR FROM BEING TAKEN CARE OF BY MY CAR WARRANTY. I SAY THIS BECAUSE THE FIRST TIME I ASKED ABOUT MY LIGHTS BLOWING SO FREQUENTLY, THEY TOLD ME IT WAS BECAUSE LIGHT BULBS TEND TO BLOW IN COLD WEATHER. THE SECOND TIME I ASKED, THEY SAID ALL VOLVOS WERE DOING THAT. I LOOKED ON YOUR SITE ABOUT SAFETY RECALLS ON VOLVOS AND SAW NOTHING ABOUT VOLTAGE PROBLEMS. TONIGHT I HAVE ALSO SENT AN EMAIL TO VOLVO.COM SITE SO OBVIOUSLY I HAVEN'T GOTTEN A RESPONSE FROM THEM. SINCE SAFETY LIGHTS (HEADLIGHT AND TAILLIGHTS) ARE AN ISSUE WITH THE PROBLEM I'M HAVING WITH MY CAR AND THE VOLVO DEALERSHIP SAYS IT'S A COMMON VOLVO PROBLEM, I THOUGHT I SHOULD PASS THIS BY YOUR SITE TO SEE WHAT YOU HAVE HEARD. *JB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-07-18
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: I WAS SLOWING DOWN ON THE INTERSTATE FOR MY EXIT AND MY STEERING WHEEL STARTING SHAKING SEVERELY TO THE POINT THAT I WAS BARELY ABLE TO CONTAIN IT THIS WAS WHEN I DECIDED TO TAKE MY S40 TO THE DEALERSHIP. I HAD NOTICED SOME SHAKING PREVIOUSLY BUT WASN'T SURE WHAT THE PROBLEM WAS AND SINCE MY CAR HAD JUST BEEN SERVICED I FIGURED ANYTHING SERIOUS WOULD HAVE BEEN IDENTIFIED. WHEN I TOOK MY CAR IN I WAS TOLD THAT I NEEDED NEW ROTORS AND PADS. MY MILEAGE SEEMED RATHER LOW FOR MY ROTORS TO BE SHOT SO I ASKED WHY THIS MIGHT HAVE HAPPENED AS I WORK FROM HOME. I WAS TOLD IT WAS PROBABLY DUE TO LACK OF DRIVING. THE DEALERSHIP COVERED THE ROTORS UNDER MY WARRENTY BUT CHARGED ME FOR THE BRAKE PADS WHICH MADE NO SENSE AS I WOULD NOT HAVE NEEDED NEW PADS IF IT HADN'T BEEN FOR THE ROTORS BEING SHOT.*AK
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-11
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE CONSUMER SUSTAINED MAJOR INJURIES WHEN THE VEHICLE STRUCK A TREE. THE SEAT BELT DIDN'T HOLD HIM IN PLACE AND THE AIR BAGS DIDN'T DEPLOY. *PH *SC *JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1VS296562
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE HORN FAILED TO FUNCTION PROPERLY WHEN HORN BUTTON WAS PRESSED FROM THE LEFT SIDE. THE HORN DID NOT WORK AT TIMES OR EXCESSIVE FORCE WAS NEEDED.*AK CONSUMER WAS INVOLVED IN A REAR END COLLISION IN WHICH HE TRIED TO USE THE HORN BUT IT DIDN'T WORK. VEHICLE WAS BROUGHT IN SEVERAL TIMES BUT NOT REPAIRED TO WORKING ORDER. *PH *JB
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-21
- VIN: YV1VS29592F
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT A VERY LOW SPEED, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED. THE DRIVER WAS ABLE TO STOP THE VEHICLE BY PRESSING ON THE BRAKE PEDAL REALLY HARD. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER. *AK *JB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-10
- VIN: YV1VS29552F
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE REAR BRAKE PADS ON MY 2002 S40 VOLVO WORE OUT AT ABOUT 21 THOUSAND MILES AND RUINED THE ROTOR. ACCORDING TO VOLVO CORP. THIS IS BECASUE THE GOVERNMENT IS HAS PROHIBITED THEM FROM USING ASBESTOS IN THE BRAKE PADS. VOLVO PUT NOISE MAKING "SQUEALERES" ON THE INSIDE PADS BUT DUE TO THE DESIGN OF THE BRAKES THE OUTSIDE PADS WEAR OUT FIRST CAUSING A RIVIT ON THE PAD TO CONTACT THE ROTOR AND RUIN IT BEFORE THE PADS CAN BE REPLACED. ACCORDING TO THREE VOLVO SERVICE MANAGERS IT IS NORMAL FOR THE PADS TO WEAROUT AT BETWEEN 15 AND 20,000 MILES.I HAVE CONTACTED VOLVO OF AMERICA BY EMAIL ON TWO OCCASIONS TO ADVISE THEM OF THE OBVIOUS PROBLEM WITH THEIR BRAKES THEY ADVISED ME THEY COULD OFFER ME NO REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE PREMATURE BRAKE FAILURE AND WOULD FILE THE INFORMATION .*AK
2002 Volvo S40 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2002 Volvo S40.
- Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER CARS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEMS." THE SECOND ISOFIX GUIDE WAS NOT INSTALLED IN THESE VEHICLES AND, IN CERTAIN CASES, THE OWNER'S MANUAL ISOFIX INFORMATION IS INCORRECT.
- Consequence: THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
- Remedy: OWNERS WILL RECEIVE A LETTER/PACKAGE CONSISTING OF THE SECOND ISOFIX GUIDE WITH INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS, AND IN CERTAIN CASES, THE CORRECTED OWNER'S MANUAL MAY BE PROVIDED. IF THE OWNER WANTS TO TAKE THEIR VEHICLE TO A VOLVO DEALER FOR INSTALLATION OF THE GUIDE, IT WILL BE PERFORMED AT NO CHARGE TO THE OWNER. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON DECEMBER 19, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT VOLVO AT 1-800-458-1552.
Negative 2002 Volvo S40 car reviews
Positive 2002 Volvo S40 car reviews
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I love this car. Rated one of Consumer Report's top ten for 2002, the Volvo S40 is a fun, sporty, and peppy automobile that has all the comfort and responsibility of being a Volvo, the safest car on the road. The S40 handles and drives like a dream, stops on a dime, and has excellent fuel efficiency.
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Congratulations on your first car purchase! It's always exciting to have a car that you love, and it sounds like you made a great choice with the Volvo S40. I'm glad to hear that you haven't had any major issues with it, and that the rattle in the front headrests was covered under warranty. Your tip about using the internet for bargaining and pricing is a great one, and I'm sure it will be helpful to others looking to purchase a car. Thanks for sharing your experience!
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Hi there! We're glad to hear that you're satisfied!
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I've had this car for 2 years and I must say, I have no major complaints (except the check engine light - which I got fixed at the dealership when I received a notice from Volvo a few months ago). The acceleration is excellent, the build quality is good and it's very reliable. I frequently take this car on long trips and I have great fun driving it.
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This is a great car that prioritizes safety features over luxury gadgets. If you're looking for an entry-level Volvo, it's a great choice. While it may not have as many fun toys as some of the more gadgety offerings in the same price range (such as VW), it's important to consider reliability issues. I have not encountered a single problem with my solid, albeit a bit stodgy, S40.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 Volvo S40 problems:
Good buy? 2002 Volvo S40 - 77k miles : r/Volvo
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2002 Volvo S40 Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
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Jan 20, 2024 ... Some of these issues include a slipping transmission, vibrations at idle, and starter control module issues, among others. Contents hide. Are ...
Q&A: Troubleshooting 2002 Volvo S40 & V40 Blower Motor Issues
Apr 15, 2010 ... The shop was mostly correct. When the fan speed starts randomly changing, blowing full force then slow all by itself, etc, this is the fan speed ...
1996-2004 S40 & V40 Buyer's guide - What to look out for? - Volvo ...
Aug 18, 2012 ... This is a known issue with AOL. AOL, Yahoo ... volvo always, Volvo2002, Wainfleet. gatos. View Public ... Current car: 2002 S40 1.9D, 1992 240SE.
Other years of Volvo S40
Are you having problems with your 2002 Volvo S40?
Kayley Huel 2024-11-12
Nice car, but unfortunately it has a poor resale value.
Maverick O'Conner 2024-11-07
The car had some issues that needed to be addressed, but the dealership was unable to identify the root cause despite replacing several parts. Eventually, it was discovered that a loose bolt was the culprit. The A/C required replacement twice, and the door handle kept breaking. Additionally, the driver's seat had a tendency to tip forward when braking and back when accelerating, which was concerning. Despite the dealership's inability to fix the issues, I remain confident that a solution can be found. However, the car's resale value has been disappointing. I hope that the dealership can focus on resolving the car's issues rather than asking for high service ratings.
Neil Sipes 2024-08-01
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I noticed that you've had a few issues with your car over the past couple of years. While it's never fun to deal with defects, I'm glad to hear that they haven't been too serious. I understand that it can be frustrating to have to deal with these things, especially if you're used to driving cars that don't have any problems. It sounds like the cost of maintenance has been a bit higher than you were expecting, which is never fun. If you ever need any advice or recommendations on how to keep your car running smoothly, please don't hesitate to reach out. I'm always here to help!
Rene Friesen 2024-07-16
I have been offered a lease at $369/month for four years with a down payment of $2000, despite having no prior leasing experience. I am concerned that this may be a high price compared to the $299/month that others on this list are paying. Additionally, the ride quality is not satisfactory, as it feels rough and bumpy on the road and unstable on the highway. As a confident consumer, I would like to explore my options and ensure that I am getting a fair deal for my money.
Broderick Olson 2024-07-01
I really enjoy the car and the mileage is unbelievable given my driving habits. The car stops on a dime, which has saved me quite a number of times. Although the brake dust is a bit annoying, the pads will be upgraded to ceramic when I have to replace them. I agree that my driver seat tips forward when you brake and back when you step on the gas. It's minor, but it is a unique feeling. I am a bit concerned about the quality given that my door latch on the exterior rear passenger door no longer works and the locking fuel door sometimes has to be manually unlatched from inside the trunk. However, all in all, I highly recommend the vehicle as it is fun, safe and merely sips on fuel.