2009 Volvo V50 problems
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.
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Common 2009 Volvo V50 problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2009 Volvo V50, several common problems have been reported:
- Suspension Problems:
- Suspension problems have been highlighted as a common issue with the 2009 Volvo V50. The sources do not delve into the specifics of these suspension issues, but they are noted as one of the reported problems by owners.
- Loss of Power When Going Uphill:
- Some owners have experienced a loss of power when driving uphill in the 2009 Volvo V50. This issue was accompanied by a smell of smoke, indicating a potential mechanical problem related to performance under load.
- Knocking Noise Under Acceleration and Deceleration:
- A knocking noise from the front end under acceleration and deceleration has been reported in the Volvo S40 and V50 models. This issue could be related to the support plate for the shock absorber's upper mounting point, requiring the application of silicon grease and tightening to resolve the problem.
- Oil Leaks from the Sump:
- Some Volvo S40 and V50 models with the 2.0-litre diesel engine have been reported to develop oil leaks from tiny cracks inside the bolt holes for the sump. This issue necessitates draining the oil, removing the sump, cleaning the bolt holes, applying sealant, and refitting the sump with new bolts to prevent further leakage.
- Starting Problems:
- Starting issues, where the car turns over but fails to start, have been noted in the Volvo S40 and V50. This problem can be attributed to a stuck valve in the throttle body, requiring removal, cleaning, and smoothing out rough edges on the throttle valve to ensure proper functionality.
These common problems reported by owners of the 2009 Volvo V50 and related models highlight various mechanical and performance issues that may require attention and maintenance to ensure the optimal functioning of the vehicle.
What is the most common problem with the 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.
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 should I look for in a Volvo V50?
Volvo V50 Common Problems and Solutions
- Faulty Audio System Screen. Problem: ...
- High Pitched Sound When Steering. Problem: ...
- Clunking While Driving. Problem: ...
- The Car Alarm Is Going Off. Problem: ...
- Bumpy Driving. Problem: ...
- Overheating Engine. Problem: ...
- Loss Of Brake Power. Problem: ...
- Sudden Clutch Problems. Problem:
What is the most common problem with the 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.
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.
Is the V50 a good car?
The V50 is a great car, it's safe, reliable, has plenty of guts and room to spare in a medium sized wagon. It's easy to drive and really comfortable. I owned the car for two years and it never missed a beat. It's the Swedish car that runs like a Swiss watch.
How many miles will a Volvo V50 last?
204,000mi
The estimated lifespan of a Volvo V50 is 204,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Fuel type is a major factor when looking into a vehicles lifespan/life expectancy.
2009 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:
- Service brakes problems
- Electrical system problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2009 Volvo V50 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2009 Volvo V50 complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2009 Volvo V50.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-04
- VIN: YV1MW382592
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I HAD THE BRAKE PADS REPLACED, THEN THE PUMP ONLY TO NOT BE ABLE TO STOP THE CAR BECAUSE OF THE BOOSTER PUMP! I WENT RIGHT THROUGH A STOP SIGN. THE MECHANIC SAID HE SEES THIS PROBLEM ALL OF THE TIME WITH THESE CARS.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-02-28
- VIN: YV1MW382X92
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
- Summary: FAILURE TO NOTIFY OWNERS OF A POTENTIALLY DEADLY, KNOWN DEFECTIVE PART THAT RESULTS IN MASSIVE CORROSION OF ELECTRONICS AND CEM CAUSING ENGINE TO QUIT WORKING. ELECTRONICS BEGAN TO QUIT WORKING WHILE TRAVELING. WE TOOK THE CAR INTO A DEALERSHIP SERVICE GARAGE AND TURNED THE IGNITION OFF. THEY WERE UNABLE TO START THE ENGINE, AND COULD NOT FIND THE PROBLEM. THEY CALLED VOLVO WHO TOLD THEM THE V50 HAD A KNOWN DEFECTIVE WATER PUMP THAT CAUSED OTHER PARTS TO CORRODE. VOLVO SECRETLY CHANGED TO A DIFFERENT WATER PUMP IN NEW CARS AFTER DISCOVERING THIS DEFECT : BUT DID NOT NOTIFY OWNERS OR ISSUE A RECALL. THIS PUMP LEAKS WASHER FLUID, DRIPPING ONTO THE MAIN WIRING HARNESS AND CEM MAINFRAME COMPUTER WHICH CONTROLS THE ENGINE, CAUSING THE INABILITY TO START OR SHUT DOWN THE ENGINE, SECURITY ALARM TO ACTIVATE INTERMITTENTLY WITH NO PROVOCATION, DISABLED KEY FOB ENTRY, AND OTHER INTERMITTENT ISSUES RELATED TO ELECTRONICS. THESE PARTS WERE COMPLETELY CORRODED AND FRIED. IF THIS FAILED WHILE DRIVING AND HAD STOPPED THE ENGINE, THE SAME RESULTS WOULD HAVE OCCURRED AS THE GM CHEVROLET IGNITION PROBLEM. WITH NO ENGINE, THE CONTROLS TO POWER BRAKES, POWER STEERING AND AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT WOULD BE INACTIVE. VOLVO COVERED ONLY THE COST OF THE PARTS, BUT LEFT US WITH A $3000 BILL FOR THE LABOR PORTION. THEY TOLD US THAT BECAUSE OF THE CARS AGE AND MILEAGE AND A "LOYALTY" FACTOR, THEY WOULD NOT COVER THE LABOR COSTS. THEY SAID THEY WOULD ONLY COVER LABOR IF THERE WAS A RECALL, WHICH THEY HAVEN'T DONE. WE OWN 2 VOLVO'S AND OUR DAUGHTER PURCHASED A VOLVO ON OUR RECOMMENDATION JUST BEFORE THIS FAILURE. WE ASKED THAT THEY ALSO PICK THE LABOR COSTS REGARDLESS AND THEY REFUSED. THIS COULD LEAD TO A POTENTIAL DEADLY RESULT SIMILAR TO THE GM IGNITION PROBLEM & COVER-UP. *TR
2009 Volvo V50 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2009 Volvo V50.
- 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].
- 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.
- Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.
- Components: STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS
- Summary: VOLVO IS RECALLING MY 2008-2009 VEHICLES. A SECTION OF THE POWER STEERING RETURN LINE HOSE WAS NOT PROPERLY VULCANIZED (CURED) AND DOES NOT MEET SPECIFICATIONS. IF THE POWER STEERING RETURN HOSE FAILS, A SUDDEN RUPTURE OF THE HOSE CAN OCCUR.
- Consequence: THIS CAN RESULT IN A RAPID DRAINAGE OF THE POWER STEERING FLUID IN THE SYSTEM AND A COMPLETE LOSS OF POWER ASSISTANCE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE THE STEERING RETURN LINE HOSE ASSEMBLY FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 13, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLVO AT 1-800-458-1552.
Negative 2009 Volvo V50 car reviews
Positive 2009 Volvo V50 car reviews
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Hi there! I've been driving this car for over 2 years now and my lease is up in a few months. While there are some downsides, I'd like to focus on the positives. The car has adequate acceleration and very responsive handling. It also has great looks! In terms of the downsides, I have noticed that the safety features can sometimes detract from visibility. To improve this, I removed the huge rear seat head supports to see the small rear window. Additionally, the front columns are quite thick and create a blind spot. The car also tends to eat up power steering fluid, which is something to keep in mind. Finally, there is some wind noise, but this is a common issue with this car. Overall, I really enjoy driving this car and would recommend it to others. Thanks for reading!
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I sold my Jeep because it was too thirsty and bought this V50. The quality is awesome! Although it doesn't have the same power and torque as the Jeep, it serves its purpose as a utility vehicle. I don't agree with other reviewers who complain about road noise, because it's MUCH less compared to the Jeep. The seats fold flat, and even the passenger seat folds down, which is great for carrying my two kids, their bicycles, balls, and toys in the back cargo space, with space to spare. The car drives smoothly, and the audio system is good. It's just perfect for a small family. The only issue I have is the gas mileage. I haven't reached the 31 mpg as the manufacturer stated, but I still average about 25-26 mpg in mixed driving.
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Hi there! Thank you for sharing your thoughts on your new car. I must say, I completely agree with you on the looks of the V50 - both inside and out, it's a real head-turner! The seats are also fantastic, and I'm glad to hear that the automatic transmission is smooth. I understand that you may have some concerns about the long-term reliability of the car, especially since you haven't owned a Volvo before. However, from my research on the '07 models, it seems that the electrical problems have been worked out. I'm excited to hear more about your experience with the car once you've put more mileage on it. Thanks again for sharing!
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I'm really glad I made the switch to this car! It's been a great experience so far. Not only is it more affordable, but I also feel more confident driving it knowing that I won't have to worry about any electronic malfunctions. The ride is firm yet comfortable, similar to a 3 series BMW. While the ergonomics are a bit unusual and there could be more storage space up front, I'm still really happy with my purchase. The fuel economy is also better than my previous car, although I do miss having Bluetooth for my phone. Overall, I have no regrets!
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Congratulations on sending your last child off to college! It's definitely a milestone worth celebrating. I couldn't agree more about the appeal of the aerodynamic design of the v50 on the road, and the added flexibility of a small wagon for storage. Your choice of the v50 t5 awd with a standard transmission sounds like a great decision! The car has great acceleration, handling, and responsiveness, and it's amazing that it has no problem in snowy or icy conditions. The seats sound like they're perfect for long trips, which is always a plus. It's great to hear that you're getting mixed driving in the mid twenties/gallon, and over 30 on the highway on cruise control. As for any negatives, it's understandable that the trim on the inside door handle is a little soft and has a couple of dings from your ring. Overall, it sounds like you made a fantastic choice with the v50 t5 awd, and I hope you continue to enjoy it for years to come!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2009 Volvo V50 problems:
Volvo S40/V50 common problems (2009-2016) | Haynes Publishing
What common problems does the Volvo S40 have? There have been numerous reports of the Volvo S40 and V50 suffering a knocking noise from the front end under ...
Issues with a 2009 Volvo V50 wagon | SwedeSpeed - Volvo ...
Nov 3, 2018 ... One super-common issue that may be related here is the fuel pressure sensor. It's inexpensive and very easy to replace (threads linked in the ...
Volvo V50: Common Problems and Solutions | BreakerYard.com
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 ...
V50 T5 Manual - Common problems too look out for? - Volvo ...
May 10, 2021 ... Multiple issues are common to cause this (AC drain clogged, windscreen leaking) or heater core leaking (smell/looks of coolant inside of the car) ...
Common problem areas on the V50 T5? | SwedeSpeed - Volvo ...
Mar 9, 2010 ... Are there any common problems on the T5 version of the V50, or tips to follow? Are there any common problems with the car itself that I ...
Other years of Volvo V50
Are you having problems with your 2009 Volvo V50?
Lula Renner 2025-01-05
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.
Ahmad Cole 2024-10-26
Avoid purchasing used VOLVOs as they may require costly repairs and may not last beyond 5 years. The head gasket issue is a common problem that can lead to significant expenses. It is recommended to consider other options before investing in a used VOLVO.
Adonis Cronin 2024-06-07
When I purchased the car from the dealership, it had 5k miles on it, as it was a loaner vehicle. Unfortunately, it did not get great gas mileage for a small car, and I ended up spending a lot on repairs. There were many electrical issues, including the steering wheel locking due to an anti-theft feature, which made it impossible to drive. After the fourth time I had to have it towed, I decided to move on. Additionally, the tire sensor malfunctioned, which was an expensive repair, and the indicator would stay on. While it's possible that I had a lemon, my experience with this car has turned me off of Volvo's forever. Despite the high cost of repairs, I am grateful for the time I spent with this car and the memories it provided.
Candido Hand 2024-02-12
We have owned 5 previous Volvo wagons going back to 1971, but unfortunately, this vehicle doesn't compete. There are a few issues we have encountered, such as the 'no key system' having a small cap for the driver's door lock which has fallen off on its own 3 times, costing $90.00 each time to order, have painted, etc. Additionally, the front airfoil/dam is too low, which causes it to rub on curbs and frequently get scratched/damaged, costing $650.00+ to replace. The rear roof tapers down so much that load capacity is severely limited, even for large dogs who bump their heads on entry. However, the mileage is about 20 and the manual supports the use of 87 Octane and up. We are worried for the future of Volvo, but we hope that these issues can be addressed in future models.