2002 Volvo V40 problems

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The Volvo V40 is a small family car (C-segment in Europe) manufactured and marketed by Volvo Cars from 2012 to 2019. It was unveiled at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, and was on sale in Europe between 2012 and 2019.

Models

V40

The V40 was designed by American Chris Benjamin, the interior is the work of Pontus Fontaeus, and was the last Volvo to be designed under Steve Mattin, before he departed the company. It is built on the Global C platform with modifications to the electric power steering, and revised spring and damper settings.

The engine lineup at launch are: two petrol engines; a 1.6 litre EcoBoost I4 producing either 150 or 180 hp, dependent on specification, and a 2.5 litre Volvo B525 I5 producing 254 hp, and two diesel engines; a 1.6 litre PSA Peugeot Citroën / Ford Duratorq engine, which produces 115 hp, whilst only emitting 94 g/km of CO2, and a 2.0 litre I5 Volvo diesel engine available in two versions, 150 hp and 177 hp. In some countries, the V40 T5 uses a 2.0 litre I5 (B5204T9) producing 213 hp @ 6000 rpm and 300 nm from 2,700 to 5,000 rpm.

From the model year of 2014, Volvo has begun fitting its in-house developed Drive E (VEA) diesel and petrol engines to the V40. As of January 2015, these engines are available in the new V40 D4 (replacing the previous five cylinder D4) and V40 T5 (replacing the petrol five cylinder T5). Also available is the IntelliSafe safety precrash system.

Available in both the V40 and V40 Cross Country bodies, the D4 Drive E includes a four-cylinder twin turbo diesel engine rated 190 PS (140 kW; 187 hp) and 400 N⋅m (295 lb⋅ft), a six speed manual transmission tuned for improved fuel economy, pressure feedback from each fuel injector, reduced friction, and a smart valve solution on the cooling system for a more rapid heat up phase after a cold start.

The T5 Drive-E includes a four-cylinder turbo petrol engine rated 243 PS (179 kW; 240 hp) and 350 N⋅m (258 lb⋅ft), with eight speed automatic transmission.

These new engines replace the older, but identically branded, five cylinder engines. After introduction of the VEA D4 and T5, the 1.6 D2 and 2.0 five cylinder D3 are replaced with VEA 2.0 D2 and D3 engines. The 1.6 EcoBoost and 2.0 five cylinder are replaced with VEA 2.0 T2, T3, and T4 engines. For some petrol automatic models, a de stroked version of the VEA 2.0, with 1.5 litre displacement, is used for T2 and T3.

2002 Volvo V40

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Common 2002 Volvo V40 problems

The Volvo V40, particularly the 2002 model, has been known to have several common problems based on complaints from its owners. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues:

  • Loose Airbag Mounting: This problem is caused by a defect in the horn operating mechanism, causing the airbag mounting to become loose. The solution involves replacing the airbag mounting plate, which can be easily found on parts lists. This issue can affect the overall safety of the vehicle, and it is essential to address it promptly.
  • Poor Engine Idling: This problem is caused by carbon buildup in the MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor, ICV (Idle Control Valve), and throttle body. The solution involves cleaning these parts with a toothbrush and cleaners such as MAF sensor cleaner and throttle body cleaner. This issue can affect the vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency.
  • Water Leak in Boot: This problem is caused by leaking boot seals, particularly in the spare wheel well. The solution involves removing the black boot seal and applying sealer before refitting the seals. This issue can lead to water damage in the boot and the spare wheel well, which can affect the vehicle's overall condition.
  • Poor Performance and Unusual Smell: This problem is caused by a blocked EGR (Exhaust Gas Re-circulation) valve. The solution involves cleaning the EGR valve with a toothbrush and carb cleaner. If the EGR valve is still not functioning correctly, it may need to be replaced. This issue can affect the vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency.
  • Door Locking Mechanism: This problem is caused by a faulty door locking mechanism that can result in the doors not locking or unlocking properly. The solution involves replacing the locking mechanism, which can be a tricky job to do yourself. This issue can affect the vehicle's overall safety and security.
  • Cracked Fuel Hose: This problem is caused by a cracked fuel hose, particularly in models built between April 2015 and March 2016. The solution involves replacing the fuel hose, which is a relatively simple job to do. This issue can lead to fuel leaks and affect the vehicle's overall safety and fuel efficiency.

These are some of the most common problems reported by Volvo V40 owners. It is essential to address these issues promptly to ensure the vehicle's overall safety, performance, and fuel efficiency. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify these issues early and prevent further damage.

2002 Volvo V40 engine

What are the common faults with a Volvo V40?

A number of Volvo V40 owners have reported a droning noise from their front brakes every time the pedal is pressed. The V40 isn't immune to the odd cabin leak, too, which can cause a musty smell. And Volvo V40 starting problems can often be traced to a broken exhaust valve spring.

Is the Volvo V40 a reliable car?

The V40 didn't feature in our most recent reliability survey. However, in the last one it did feature in, it finished in sixth place out of the class of 37 family cars with a diesel engine and 20th place if it had a petrol engine.

How many miles can a Volvo V40 last?

What is Volvo V40 lifespan? The estimated lifespan of a Volvo V40 is 258,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Fuel type is a major factor when looking into a vehicles lifespan/life expectancy.

Is Volvo V40 expensive to maintain?

My first year service back in the day of my 68 plate V40 Momentum Nav Plus (1.5 petrol Geartronic) was £285, which was the most expensive car I had ever serviced. Previous cars they were about £100 cheaper on average to service from the dealer. It was a lease, so had to use main dealer.

What are the common faults with a Volvo V40?

A number of Volvo V40 owners have reported a droning noise from their front brakes every time the pedal is pressed. The V40 isn't immune to the odd cabin leak, too, which can cause a musty smell. And Volvo V40 starting problems can often be traced to a broken exhaust valve spring.

Is the Volvo V40 a reliable car?

The V40 didn't feature in our most recent reliability survey. However, in the last one it did feature in, it finished in sixth place out of the class of 37 family cars with a diesel engine and 20th place if it had a petrol engine.

Is Volvo V40 expensive to maintain?

My first year service back in the day of my 68 plate V40 Momentum Nav Plus (1.5 petrol Geartronic) was £285, which was the most expensive car I had ever serviced. Previous cars they were about £100 cheaper on average to service from the dealer. It was a lease, so had to use main dealer.

How long can a Volvo V40 last?

What is Volvo V40 lifespan? The estimated lifespan of a Volvo V40 is 258,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Fuel type is a major factor when looking into a vehicles lifespan/life expectancy.

2002 Volvo V40 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volvo V40 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Seat belts problems
  • Structure problems
  • Unknown or other problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Volvo V40 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2002 Volvo V40 complaints

The NHTSA has received 7 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Volvo V40.

2015-11-02

SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-03-10
  • VIN: YV1VW29562F
  • Components: SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: THERE IS S RIP ON MY SEAT BELT THAT COULD RESULT TO AN INJURY OR DEATH. SEAT BELT COVER WAS THE THING THAT RIP THE SEAT BELT IT LOOKS LIKE A KNIFE CUTS THE BELT ON IT. THIS MIGHT JUST ME HAVING THIS PROBLEM PLS. CHECK THIS CONCERN... THANK'S
2010-01-19

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2009-07-01
  • VIN: YV1VW2558YF
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A USED 2002 VOLVO V40 WHICH WAS PURCHASED IN 2002. HE STATED THAT IN ORDER FOR THE VEHICLE TO STOP, HE HAD TO APPLY EXTREME FORCE TO THE BRAKE PEDAL. THE FAILURE WOULD OCCUR AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, INCLUDING 5 MPH. HE ALSO STATED THAT THE BRAKE PEDAL WOULD BE DEPRESSED TO THE FLOOR-BOARDS BEFORE THEY WOULD ACTIVATE. ALTHOUGH RECALL CAMPAIGN NUMBER 03V474000, SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST, VACUUM IS RELATED TO THE FAILURE AS A RESULT OF NHTSA ACTION NUMBER EA02026, HIS VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE HE WAS AWAITING REPAIRS, TO DATE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE UNDER 90,000.
2008-09-26

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2008-09-19
  • VIN: YV1VW29532F
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: I HAVE A 2002 VOLVO V40 AND IT HAS 50,200 MILES. MY DAUGHTER DRIVES THE CAR. I HAVE NOTICED THAT THE CAR ENGINE STALLS WHILE DRIVING AT SLOWER SPEEDS. THIS HAS HAPPENED TO ME OCCASIONALLY AND I CAN COUNT LIKE 20 TIMES. MY DAUGHTER EXPERIENCED THIS AND I DO NOT HAVE A COUNT. I CALLED CARLSEN VOLVO (650 - 493-1515 X 254) IN PALO ALTO AND THE SERVICE REP, DAN SAID THAT THE CAR HAS NO RECALL. THE CAR STALLED WHEN I DROVE IT TO COSTCO IN REDWOOD CITY FOR TIRE CHANGE ON 9/19/2008. CAN YOU TELL ME HOW I CAN RESOLVE THIS PROBLEM BEFORE A MAJOR ACCIDENT HAPPENS? *TR
2005-08-16

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
2005-08-05

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
2002-06-12

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-05-17
  • VIN: YV1VW29582F
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: BRAKES FAILED ON MAY 17. DEALER COULD NOT FIND PROBLEM. BRAKES FAILED ON MAY 28. DEALER REPLACED MASTER CYLINDER AND WHEEL CYLINDER. BRAKE WARNING LIGHT AGAIN ON 6/12/2002. *AK
2002-03-26

SEATS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: UNKNOWN
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: THE THIRD SEAT LATCH MALFUNCTIONED AND BROKE, THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO PROVIDED NOT REMEDY. NLM

2002 Volvo V40 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2002 Volvo V40.

2003-08-01
  • 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 V40 car reviews

  1. Madisen Bruen 2024-11-03

    Hi there! I'm glad to hear that you chose a Volvo for its great reputation and reasonable price. Although it may be a bit small for larger families or moving lots of things, it's still a very practical car that can hold quite a bit with the rear seats completely flat. I was pleasantly surprised to hear that the acceleration is quick for a 4 cyl, even better than many V6s you've driven. While the handling is tight enough for a sports wagon, it may not be the best for searching for curves. The best part is the fantastic mileage! It's great to hear that you're getting 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. It's also impressive that you've had zero maintenance issues in 5 years. Keep up the good work and don't forget to change your oil!

  2. Connor Runolfsson 2024-08-18

    The car's electrical problems have been persisting despite the dealer's attempts to identify and correct them. The vehicle's random stalling and loss of power steering have rendered it unsafe to drive. However, the car's excellent overall design, spaciousness, and comfort features remain noteworthy despite its current unreliability.

  3. Gaylord Schmidt 2024-08-16

    Great looking car! Although, it may be too small for my family's needs. However, I must say that my experience with this vehicle has not been the most reliable. I have had to replace the air mass meter and cruise control three times, and the front control arms and ball joints had to be replaced after only 20,000KM. Additionally, there have been numerous squeaks and rattles. I would recommend considering other options before choosing this vehicle.

  4. Kevin Johnston 2024-06-16

    My car has been serviced monthly for a variety of problems, including AC malfunctioning, check engine light, and multiple headlight replacements. I am confident that these issues have been resolved and will not occur again.

  5. Deontae Muller 2024-05-20

    This is a 2000. Although it has some drawbacks such as cramped interior and poorly placed electrical controls, hand brake, and armrest, some of these issues were addressed in the 2001 model. The coin and cup holders are also not ideally located. However, it is worth noting that the Michelin tires significantly enhance driving experience and durability. One thing to keep in mind is that the express window control is only located in the driver's door armrest and there is no window control in the passenger's armrest.

Positive 2002 Volvo V40 car reviews

  1. Raven Hudson 2024-11-23

    I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your new car! It sounds like it was the perfect choice for your recent road trip with your partner. The folding rear area with plenty of room for your camping gear is a great feature, and it's wonderful to hear that the highway ride was smooth and the engine provided plenty of power. The cabin being quiet and similar to much more expensive luxury cars is definitely a plus, and the leather seats sound very supportive. It's great to hear that the sound system is awesome too! And averaging better than 32 miles to the gallon over 1200 highway miles is impressive. Overall, it sounds like you made a great choice with a fun car to drive that has great safety features, and is comfortable and practical.

  2. Gilbert Dietrich 2024-11-19

    I'm so happy with my first Volvo! Despite some common issues with the V40, it has held up well under my hard driving. The car is a blast to drive - it handles well and has plenty of zip. The front seats are incredibly comfortable, too. While some people have complained about the non-standard radio controls, I find them to be the most effective and useful controls I've ever used. The tuning knob to scan through 20 presets makes more sense than separate preset buttons and is much easier to use while driving. It's worth noting that some common problems affecting this vehicle are brakes that wear out quickly and an electrical system that burns through headlights.

  3. Ellis Ritchie 2024-10-04

    I purchased this car overseas with American specifications and have driven it on three round trips from Italy to Brussels, Belgium (a drive of over 20 hours) without any issues. It is spacious, reliable, and looks great. I make sure to keep it well-maintained and only take it to Volvo for check-ups or parts. While I have had to replace the headlights twice, this is normal for any car. I did experience a minor issue with the check engine light, but it was quickly resolved. Overall, I highly recommend this car and would purchase it again. As a rule of thumb, taking it to Volvo for any problems ensures that you will never have to complain about it.

  4. Alfonzo Schamberger 2024-09-27

    I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with my car. It's been a great ride so far! The seats are super comfortable and the audio system is amazing. I've really enjoyed driving it. The only issues I've had are with the brake pads, which need to be replaced annually, and the electronic driver seat adjuster, which has had some chronic defects. However, the engine has been running smoothly for the past 4 years. Overall, I highly recommend this car. It's been such a pleasure to drive that I'm sad to see it go. The new V50 will be replacing it in 2004.

  5. Donato Hahn 2024-07-17

    I bought the v40 w/30K last year and have been happy with it since. Although I had one major problem since I owned it, it was covered by the warranty (steering). The previous owner had replaced the rear rotors (again...warranty item). In my opinion, the v40 has good initial acceleration due to minimal turbo lag and the ride quality is great. I do wish the car came with a strut tower and 15/16in rims because taking on windy roads can get a bit scary. Rear seat room is tight (made for kids), and internal components break easily (cup holder, etc). The styling is a bit plain, but I added roof rails, rear spoiler, and mud flaps. Overall, I love the car.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2002 Volvo V40 problems:

Good buy? 2002 Volvo S40 - 77k miles : r/Volvo
Good buy? 2002 Volvo S40 - 77k miles : r/Volvo
https://www.reddit.com/r/Volvo/comments/n0kh4u/good_buy_2002_volvo_s40_77k_miles/

Apr 28, 2021 ... sunroof drains are always a problem, and can cause water to fill the footwells. the security system has a battery that will corrode and set your ...

Common Problems with 2004 Volvo V40: Q&A for V40 Turbo ...
Common Problems with 2004 Volvo V40: Q&A for V40 Turbo ...
https://www.justanswer.com/volvo/8iteb-common-problms-2004-volvo-v40-1-9-cyl-turbo.html

Jun 26, 2014 ... Common problms with a 2004 volvo, v40, 1.9 4 cyl., turbo - Answered by a verified Volvo Mechanic.

1996-2004 S40 & V40 Buyer's guide - What to look out for? - Volvo ...
1996-2004 S40 & V40 Buyer's guide - What to look out for? - Volvo ...
https://www.volvoforums.org.uk/showthread.php?t=160312

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.

Q&A: Troubleshooting 2002 Volvo S40 & V40 Blower Motor Issues
Q&A: Troubleshooting 2002 Volvo S40 & V40 Blower Motor Issues
https://www.justanswer.com/volvo/3dzok-bought-used-2002-volvo-s40-son-something.html

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 ...

What can I expect if I buy a 2002 V40? - Volvo Forums - Volvo ...
What can I expect if I buy a 2002 V40? - Volvo Forums - Volvo ...
https://volvoforums.com/forum/volvo-s40-11/what-can-i-expect-if-i-buy-2002-v40-46011/

Sep 28, 2010 ... Engine starting missing. Coils tested fine too. They are not overly expensive from the auto parts store at $40 each. Other issues, replaced the ...

Other years of Volvo V40

volvo v40 2003 photo
V40 2003
Volvo

5

2

25

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo v40 2004 photo
V40 2004
Volvo

4

3

22

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo v40 2013 photo
V40 2013
Volvo

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo v40 1993 photo
V40 1993
Volvo

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo v40 2000 photo
V40 2000
Volvo

53

1

14

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo v40 2001 photo
V40 2001
Volvo

11

2

27

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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2002 Volvo V40 photo