Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (235 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2011
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided and heavily dependent on the specific model year, engine, and maintenance history.
8 problems reported (2 very frequent, 4 recurrent, 2 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentMajor engine failure (head gasket
Piston/cylinder scoring) in PSA-sourced gasoline engines (1.6, 1.8, 2.0).
- Very frequentGeneral reliability and high repair costs
Leading to the "money pit" characterization, especially with age and high mileage.
- RecurrentElectrical gremlins
Including faulty door lock mechanisms, ignition switch failures, and various sensor issues.
+ 5 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentCoolant expansion tank cracking
- RecurrentAutomatic transmission failures or concerns
Particularly with high-mileage units and certain GM-sourced gearboxes in related models.
- RecurrentSuspension component wear (wheel bearings
Control arms, bushings) at higher mileages, with parts noted as expensive.
- IsolatedOil filter location being awkwardly placed behind the airbox on Volvo engines
- IsolatedSunroof drain clogging leading to water leaks in the cabin
The version owners recommend
Models from the first generation (1996-2004) equipped with the Volvo-manufactured 2.4L or T5 five-cylinder gasoline engines are most frequently cited for their strength and reliability. For the second generation (2004-2011), the 2.4i and T5 five-cylinder engines are again highlighted as the preferred choices. There is a very strong, recurrent warning to avoid any model with a PSA-sourced gasoline engine (1.6, 1.8, 2.0) due to poor long-term reliability.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Saab 9-3, Volkswagen Jetta/GTI, Mazda3, Ford Focus and Honda Civic.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is sharply divided and heavily dependent on the specific model year, engine, and maintenance history. For well-maintained examples with the correct powertrain, particularly the five-cylinder gasoline engines (2.4, 2.4i, T5), long-term owner reports describe a comfortable, solid, and surprisingly durable vehicle that can be "very cheap to own" with basic maintenance, reaching high mileages (270,000+ km / 168,000+ miles cited). These owners praise the driving experience, interior comfort, and practicality. Conversely, there is a very frequent and strong consensus that models equipped with certain engines: specifically the PSA-sourced gasoline units (e.g., 1.6, 1.8F, 2.0) and early diesel variants: are prone to significant reliability issues, including major engine failures, electrical problems, and high repair costs. The vehicle is widely characterized as a potential "money pit" if the wrong engine is chosen or maintenance is deferred, with parts and labor costs noted as higher than mainstream Japanese competitors.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a comfortable, safe, and somewhat premium compact sedan, but with a compromised value proposition due to potential reliability concerns. It is frequently compared unfavorably to contemporary Honda Civics and Toyota Corollas for long-term reliability and cost of ownership, though it is acknowledged to offer a more substantial feel and driving experience. Compared to other European brands like Audi and BMW, it is seen as potentially more reliable in its five-cylinder guise but less refined or sporty. Within the Volvo family, it is considered a more affordable and practical entry point than the S60 but shares its platform with the more popular C30 and V50.
Recommended configurations
A manual transmission is mentioned favorably for engagement and to avoid potential automatic transmission issues. The five-cylinder gasoline engines (2.4, 2.4i, T5) are overwhelmingly recommended. Full-leather upholstery is noted as a desirable comfort feature. A comprehensive pre-purchase inspection by a specialist is strongly advised. Verification of complete service history, particularly for timing belt changes (recommended at 180,000 km / 112,000 miles or 10 years), is considered essential. For diesel models, confirming the engine is a Volvo D5 or later D3/D4, and not an early PSA unit, is critical.
General recommendations
Only suitable for buyers who are mechanically inclined, have access to a specialist, or have a significant maintenance budget. Ideal for those seeking a comfortable, high-mileage beater with a premium feel, provided the correct powertrain is selected. Strongly NOT recommended as a primary, low-budget transportation solution for buyers who cannot absorb unexpected four-figure repair bills. A thorough inspection must include checking for oil leaks, coolant tank cracks, functioning door locks, and suspension wear. Ownership satisfaction is highly correlated with purchasing a well-documented, high-specification example and staying on top of preventative maintenance.
Remarks
The platform, shared with the Ford Focus and Mazda3 of the era, is noted for making some parts more accessible, but Volvo-specific components remain costly. The MOST digital audio network complicates aftermarket radio upgrades. A significant divide exists between the perceived reliability of Volvo's own five-cylinder engines versus the co-developed PSA engines; this is the single most critical differentiator in owner satisfaction. The data covers a long production span, and feedback on later model years (2009-2011) is less prevalent, indicating these may be less common in owner discussions. Analysis based on approximately 50 substantive owner discussions and inquiries.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2000. Years to avoid: 2004, 2001, 2000Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Volvo S40 years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | 5 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2010 | 9 | 2 | air bags |
| 2009 | 10 | 3 | power train |
| 2008 | 16 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2007 | 25 | 2 | service brakes |
| 2006 | 59 | 3 | electrical system |
| 2005 | 81 | 3 | electrical system |
| 2004 | 50 | 6 | air bags |
| 2003 | 21 | 2 | power train |
| 2002 | 30 | 1 | service brakes |
| 2001 | 86 | 2 | service brakes |
| 2000 | 134 | 1 | service brakes |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices29 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2011 · structure:frame and memberscampaign 11V186000
VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 S40 PASSENGER VEHICLES. A CRACK ON THE TOP SIDE OF THE PASSENGER SIDE SUPPORT MEMBER IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT MAY HAVE DEVELOPED DURING THE FORMING PROCESS IN COMPONENT PRODUCTION.
2011 · seatscampaign 10V591000
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.
2010 · equipment:electrical:navigational system(global positioning system)campaign 10V566000
VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH GARMIN 760 PORTABLE GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM (GPS) UNITS BECAUSE THE BATTERIES ON THOSE UNITS MAY OVERHEAT.
2010 · seatscampaign 10V591000
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.
2009 · steering:hydraulic power assist:hose, piping, and connectionscampaign 08V329000
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.
2009 · equipment:electrical:navigational system(global positioning system)campaign 10V566000
VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH GARMIN 760 PORTABLE GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM (GPS) UNITS BECAUSE THE BATTERIES ON THOSE UNITS MAY OVERHEAT.
2009 · seatscampaign 10V591000
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.
2008 · steering:hydraulic power assist:hose, piping, and connectionscampaign 08V329000
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.
2008 · equipment:electrical:navigational system(global positioning system)campaign 10V566000
VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH GARMIN 760 PORTABLE GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM (GPS) UNITS BECAUSE THE BATTERIES ON THOSE UNITS MAY OVERHEAT.
2007 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:master cylindercampaign 08V101000
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.
2007 · equipment:electrical:navigational system(global positioning system)campaign 10V566000
VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH GARMIN 760 PORTABLE GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM (GPS) UNITS BECAUSE THE BATTERIES ON THOSE UNITS MAY OVERHEAT.
2006 · equipment:electrical:navigational system(global positioning system)campaign 10V566000
VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH GARMIN 760 PORTABLE GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM (GPS) UNITS BECAUSE THE BATTERIES ON THOSE UNITS MAY OVERHEAT.
2006 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 08V033000
ON CERTAIN VEHICLES SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, REOCCURRING, LONG-TERM EXPOSURE TO CERTAIN ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS SUCH AS SALTY-WET CONDITIONS, IT IS POSSIBLE FOR THE PUMP ELECTRONIC MODULE (PEM) TO BECOME CORRODED INTERNALLY. THIS CAN CAUSE A FAULTY SIGNAL TO THE FUEL PUMP, RESULTING IN LOW OR NO FUEL PRESSURE TO THE ENGINE.
2006 · fuel system, gasolinecampaign 06V137000
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH T5 TURBO ENGINES, THE POLYAMIDE TUBE IN THE FUEL LINE IS SENSITIVE TO THE EXTREME TEMPERATURES THAT MAY OCCUR IN THE AREA WHERE THE TURBO/EXHAUST MANIFOLD IS LOCATED.
2005 · equipment:electrical:navigational system(global positioning system)campaign 10V566000
VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH GARMIN 760 PORTABLE GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM (GPS) UNITS BECAUSE THE BATTERIES ON THOSE UNITS MAY OVERHEAT.
14 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
2.5 T5
2.5L 5-cylinder · 230 hp · FWD · automatic
Built 2011–2012