2007 Volvo V50 problems

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The Volvo V50 is the station wagon version of the Volvo S40 small family car first unveiled at the 2003 Bologna Motor Show, both assembled at Ghent, Belgium. Sharing the Volvo P1 platform with the European Ford Focus and the Mazda 3, the V50 featured interior "theatre" lighting, a floating center stack and "Volvo Intelligent Vehicle Architecture".

Overview

The V50 T5 AWD featured all-wheel drive and a straight-5 2.5 litre petrol engine, with a light pressure turbocharger, four valves per cylinder and a DOHC design with variable camshaft timing — providing 220 PS (162 kW; 217 hp) and 320 N⋅m (236 lb⋅ft) of torque. Diesel options were available in Europe, including a 2.4 Litre turbocharged D5 diesel engine which provided 180 PS (132 kW; 178 hp) and 350 N⋅m (258 lb⋅ft) of torque.

Within the United States, Volvo limited sales of the V50 PZEV cars to states where it was required, including California, Florida, Vermont, Connecticut, Arizona, Maryland, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, New York, Oregon, Maine, New Jersey, Rhode Island, New Mexico and Washington.

Volvo Cars Special Vehicle produced a concept car based on the V50, the V50 SV, whose engine produces 340 hp (254 kW), and debuted at the 2004 Specialty Equipment Market Association trade show in Las Vegas, Nevada.

2007 Volvo V50

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Common 2007 Volvo V50 problems

Based on the information gathered from various sources about the Volvo V50 2007, here is a list of common problems reported by owners:

  1. Faulty Audio System Screen:
    • Issue: The screen of the audio system may go blank or freeze.
    • Solution: This problem usually requires a software upgrade, which Volvo dealers can typically perform for free.
  2. High Pitched Sound When Steering:
    • Issue: Odd noise from the steering column when turning.
    • Solution: The air conditioning accumulator may be touching the power steering pump. Securing the accumulator away from the pump can resolve this issue.
  3. Clunking While Driving:
    • Issue: Clunking noise from the front of the car when applying brakes.
    • Solution: Failure of the front brake calliper support brackets, especially with 16" wheels. Replacing these brackets and brake pads is necessary.
  4. The Car Alarm Is Going Off:
    • Issue: Anti-theft alarm randomly sounding while driving.
    • Solution: Likely a fault in the central communications module, requiring replacement.
  5. Bumpy Driving:
    • Issue: Feeling every bump on the road due to worn-out suspension.
    • Solution: Check suspension arms and bushes, considering replacing sections or the entire suspension system.
  6. Overheating Engine:
    • Issue: Quick engine overheating with a sweet aroma indicating a coolant leak.
    • Solution: Commonly caused by a loose hose connection between the coolant expansion tank and the bleed hose, necessitating replacement of these parts.
  7. Loss Of Brake Power:
    • Issue: Requiring more pressure on the brake pedal to stop the car.
    • Solution: Malfunctioning non-return valve in the vacuum pressure pump, which can be replaced to restore normal brake pressure.
  8. Sudden Clutch Problems:
    • Issue: Sudden clutch failure, potentially dangerous.
    • Solution: Often caused by a broken rod connecting the clutch master cylinder to the pedal, requiring replacement with an upgraded metal push rod.
  9. Knocking From Engine:
    • Issue: Knocking sound from the front of the car, illuminated check engine light, and occasional engine failure to start.
    • Solution: Signs of timing belt and tensioner issues, needing prompt replacement to prevent catastrophic engine failure.

These common problems with the Volvo V50 2007 highlight various issues that owners may encounter, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance and prompt repairs to ensure the vehicle's reliability and safety.

2007 Volvo V50 engine

What is the common problem with Volvo V50?

One of the most common problems reported by V50 owners is brake failure warning and Volvo V50 brake pad wear indicator faults. The brake failure warning light in the V50 is an important safety feature that warns you if there is a problem with the braking system.

Is 2007 Volvo V50 reliable?

Spacious, sporty, reliable

Great wagon with plenty of cargo room. AWD system is excellent. These cars run forever with proper upkeep - I am past 230k miles and still pulling strong.

Are Volvo v50s reliable?

The Parkers Used Car Verdict

The Volvo V50 offers a lot of class for not much money. It's reasonably cheap to run, and if you buy wisely in terms of condition, you'll enjoy years of faithful service.

How many miles can a Volvo V50 last?

That being said, Volvo Cars is among the top brands when it comes to longevity. Among the factors mentioned above, regular maintenance and driving style can make a huge difference. Overall, expect to see your Volvo vehicle last for over 200,000 miles if you give it proper care each year.

What is the common problem with Volvo V50?

One of the most common problems reported by V50 owners is brake failure warning and Volvo V50 brake pad wear indicator faults. The brake failure warning light in the V50 is an important safety feature that warns you if there is a problem with the braking system.

Is 2007 Volvo V50 reliable?

Spacious, sporty, reliable

Great wagon with plenty of cargo room. AWD system is excellent. These cars run forever with proper upkeep - I am past 230k miles and still pulling strong.

Are Volvo v50s reliable?

The Parkers Used Car Verdict

The Volvo V50 offers a lot of class for not much money. It's reasonably cheap to run, and if you buy wisely in terms of condition, you'll enjoy years of faithful service.

How many miles can a Volvo V50 last?

That being said, Volvo Cars is among the top brands when it comes to longevity. Among the factors mentioned above, regular maintenance and driving style can make a huge difference. Overall, expect to see your Volvo vehicle last for over 200,000 miles if you give it proper care each year.

2007 Volvo V50 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volvo V50 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Tires problems
  • Unknown or other problems
  • Engine problems
  • Steering problems
  • Electrical system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2007 Volvo V50 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2007 Volvo V50 complaints

The NHTSA has received 6 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2007 Volvo V50.

2017-01-31

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-01-29
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: YV1MW682072
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
  • Summary: CAR WAS PARKED FOR ABOUT 1 HOUR, INSIDE THE GARAGE, WHEN IT CAUGHT FIRE. NO EXPLANATIONS.
2013-06-18

STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-06-17
  • VIN: YV1MW382972
  • Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: ISSUE: CAR WOULD NOT START AND "STEERING LOCKED, PLEASE TRY AGAIN" ERROR MESSAGE WAS DISPLAYED. THE WHEEL IS NOT LOCKED, I CAN TURN IT, BUT THE ENGINE WILL NOT START AND IT KEEPS ON GIVING ME THE SAME MESSAGE. I HAD TO HAVE MY CAR TOWED TO THE DEALER WHO EXPLAINED THIS IS A PART FAILURE AND IS CHARGING ME $434.00 TO REPAIR IT. I SEE THIS BEING A POTENTIAL SAFETY ISSUE SINCE THE STEERING MAY LOCK ON ME AT SOME POINT WHEN THE CAR IS RUNNING. THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL ISSUE AND VOLVO HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR REPAIRING THESE VEHICLES AT THEIR COST. *TR
2009-03-19

CHILD SEAT PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2009-03-16
  • Components: CHILD SEAT
  • Summary: TOOK CAR SEATS TO PACIFIC SAFETY COUNCIL TO CHECK PROPER INSTALLATION OF TWO CAR SEATS. TECHNICIAN FOUND GRANDDAUGHTERS SEAT (BASE) STUCK IN REAR FACING POSITION. WOULD NOT RETURN TO FORWARD FACING POSITION. TECHNICIAN HAD SEEN ISSUE BEFORE SO WE REMOVED BASE, RETURNED BAR TO PROPER POSITION AND ATTACHED CAR SEAT. THIS WAS DONE WITH MY ASSISTANCE. DID NOT WANT CHILD RETURNING HOME IN IMPROPERLY INSTALLED CAR SEAT. CALLED BRITAX WITH PROBLEM AND ISSUE WAS NOT RESOLVED. MY CONCERN IS THE SAFELY OF SEAT. IS IT GOING TO POP BACK INTO REAR FACING POSITION DURING AN ACCIDENT OR PRIOR? WAS THERE A CHANGE MADE IN NEWER MODELS (AFTER 05)? IF NOT RECALLED, WERE THEY AWARE OF ISSUE? *TR
2008-01-21

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-07-09
  • VIN: YV1MW382572
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: SIDE WALL BUBBLE LEADING TO LOW SPEED (<10 MPH) BLOWOUT. *TR
2008-01-21

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2008-01-05
  • VIN: YV1MW382572
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: SLOW LEAK, LEFT REAR PASSENGER TIRE. *TR
2008-01-21

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-08-10
  • VIN: YV1MW382572
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: SUDDEN FLAT (NOT BLOWOUT); LEFT REAR. TIRE UNRECOVERABLE. *TR

2007 Volvo V50 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2007 Volvo V50.

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.
2008-03-05
  • Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
  • Summary: VOLVO IS RECALLING 1,114 MY 2007 C30, C70, S40, AND V50 PASSENGER VEHICLES. A SOFT ANODIZED LAYER IN THE MASTER CYLINDER MAY TRIGGER EARLY WEAR ON A RUBBER SEAL THAT CAN RESULT IN INTERNAL LEAKAGE OF BRAKE FLUID. IF AFFECTED, THE DRIVER MAY EXPERIENCE REDUCED BRAKE PERFORMANCE WHEN APPLYING AND MAINTAINING FORCE OF THE BRAKE PEDAL.
  • Consequence: THE CAPACITY TO BRAKE WILL GRADUALLY DETERIORATE FORCING THE DRIVER TO USE A HIGHER THAN EXPECTED FORCE ON THE BRAKE PEDAL WHEN COMPARED TO AN INTACT BRAKE SYSTEM. THE DETERIORATION CAN EVENTUALLY RESULT IN COMPLETE LOSS OF THE BRAKE SYSTEM FUNCTIONALITY INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE MASTER CYLINDER. THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER AND BRAKE FLUID RESERVOIR WILL BE REPLACED AND CERTAIN BRAKE LINES CLEANED FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 11, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLVO AT 1-800-458-1552.

Negative 2007 Volvo V50 car reviews

  1. Korbin Adams 2025-06-25

    I recently traded in my '99 4Runner for an '07 Volvo V50, hoping for a more stable vehicle on the highway. At first, it was amazing, but I started to notice some unexpected noises in what I thought was a 'luxury' vehicle. I had the tires and rear brakes replaced, which helped to reduce the noise, but there is still some present. With the hot weather in NC, I've been using my A/C frequently, but unfortunately, the compressor doesn't always work. Today, I had an issue where the car 'immobilized' because it thought I was trying to steal my own car. On top of that, I've been experiencing some grinding noise in my front wheel bearings and electrical problems. Overall, I wouldn't recommend this car.

Positive 2007 Volvo V50 car reviews

  1. Quinn Stark 2025-11-13

    I absolutely adore this car! Living in the mountains of Colorado, I find it incredibly enjoyable to drive on the winding mountain roads. Unlike many of my neighbours, I don't believe that you need an SUV to live up here. The AWD is more than sufficient to handle the terrain. The interior design is both simple and intuitive, the performance is fantastic, the mileage is decent (considering how much I love to zoom around), the cargo space is ample, and it looks absolutely awesome. I can't fathom why this car isn't more popular, but then again, I don't understand why everyone around me insists on driving these monstrous SUVs. After all, aren't they driving on the same roads as I am?

  2. Hermann Hammes 2025-11-12

    I'm so glad to hear that you're still loving your car after almost a year of owning it! It sounds like you made some great choices with the premium sound system and upgrades. Not only does it have a smooth ride like a Town Car, but the fuel mileage is impressive too, ranging from 26-31. It definitely seems like you got a lot of value for your money with this solid car. Thank you for sharing your positive experience!

  3. Johnson Brakus 2025-11-06

    I have driven a number of Ford Focus cars, but every time I drove my wife's v50, I felt a tinge of jealousy. Finally, I found an '07 v50 for myself and it has changed my life. Although it had 119k miles on it, I knew I would have to do some work on it. But, for what I paid for it, I was well ahead of the game and I like working on cars. It was so worth it. They talk about the simple Swedish design, but what you typically don't hear about is how well this car is insulated. It's amazingly quiet and warm. All cars have their problems, but this one is worth them. I have a number of nice cars/trucks, but I am The Mustang Chef and I think Volvos are cool. I still have it and love it. I even pull my rowing shell with it. Update Nov. 2018: I paid $3500 with 119000 miles on it and it just turned over 216000 miles. I am looking for another one just like it, a 2007 silver, so I can replace it without my boss knowing I bought another one! Hahaha. I would love a 2015 v60, but I hope the Chinese aren't messing them up. Going into winter of 2019/20, I am still pulling my rowing shell (which cost more than the car) with it and still getting compliments on it. I put it away for the winter now and will save it for lake trips and regattas only. A few months ago, I put it up for sale on Craigslist. I don't know what I was thinking. The huge amount of interest woke me back up and I took it off the listing. So happy I still have it. PS: My daily driver now is a Focus ST. What a blast! Nov. 26, 2020: My 2007 Volvo v50 still tows my rowing shell. It won't quit. It's almost embarrassing. At 232k, I just put new shocks and struts on it. I would never dream of doing that to another vehicle with that many miles. It doesn't burn oil! Next spring, I'll replace the timing belt for the second time. It refuses to rust. How did they make this car so quiet?

  4. Thurman Towne 2025-11-03

    I never realized how great Volvo was until I bought it for the safety of my child. However, it has exceeded all my expectations. In short, it is perfectly built for safety without sacrificing performance and driving enjoyment. I purchased it with only 15km on the clock and it has consistently provided me with satisfaction beyond my expectations. The car is very responsive and powerful, running smoothly and with a stable feel. The sound system is outstanding, making driving feel like a luxurious indulgence. Additionally, the car provides a strong sense of safety while driving. It is a wonderful small family car, beautifully designed for storage and family travel, with every function working perfectly.

  5. Cicero Shields 2025-10-09

    It's great to hear that you've had such a positive experience with your Volvo! Over the course of nearly a year and 16,000 km, you've only had to do two scheduled maintenances, and the car has performed very well on your longest trip of 500 km. In town, you're getting around 24 mpg (US), and on the highway, you're seeing mileage in the mid 30s. The dealership has provided excellent service, and you've even replaced the factory tires with Nokians, which seem to be working out well. It's wonderful to hear that you're still very much enjoying your first Volvo.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2007 Volvo V50 problems:

Common problem areas on the V50 T5? | SwedeSpeed - Volvo ...
Common problem areas on the V50 T5? | SwedeSpeed - Volvo ...
https://www.swedespeed.com/threads/common-problem-areas-on-the-v50-t5.136053/

Mar 9, 2010 ... My '07 V50 T5 AWD is hesitating under hard acceleration at highway speeds. Around 70 mph it kind of loses power and stutters for a second and ...

P1 S40 / V50 common issues... Were they ever solved? : r/Volvo
P1 S40 / V50 common issues... Were they ever solved? : r/Volvo
https://www.reddit.com/r/Volvo/comments/lm35ni/p1_s40_v50_common_issues_were_they_ever_solved/

Feb 17, 2021 ... I previously drove a 2006 V50 that fell victim to two common problems with those cars - clogged sunroof drains and faulty door harnesses. Were ...

Volvo V50: Common Problems and Solutions | BreakerYard.com
Volvo V50: Common Problems and Solutions | BreakerYard.com
https://www.breakeryard.com/car-parts/volvo/v50/common-problems

Volvo V50 Common Problems and Solutions · Faulty Audio System Screen · High Pitched Sound When Steering · Clunking While Driving · The Car Alarm Is Going Off · Bumpy ...

2007 V50 with 130k - Buy? : r/Volvo
2007 V50 with 130k - Buy? : r/Volvo
https://www.reddit.com/r/Volvo/comments/2zee9k/2007_v50_with_130k_buy/

Mar 18, 2015 ... How bad are the electrical problems? Transmission issues? Side note: Is adding an MP3 adapter difficult? Thanks in advance! Edit: T5 vs 2.4 ...

2007 Volvo V50 Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
2007 Volvo V50 Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
https://repairpal.com/cars/volvo/v50/2007

Most Common 2007 Volvo V50 Problems ... The Air Flow or Temperature From the Climate Co... The air flow or temperature from the climate control system may be ...

Other years of Volvo V50

volvo v50 2009 photo
V50 2009
Volvo

2

3

50

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo v50 2010 photo
V50 2010
Volvo

2

3

47

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo v50 2011 photo
V50 2011
Volvo

2

1

26

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo v50 2005 photo
V50 2005
Volvo

18

3

47

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo v50 2006 photo
V50 2006
Volvo

11

3

36

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo v50 2007 photo
V50 2007
Volvo

6

2

27

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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2007 Volvo V50 photo