Thinking of S40 - Opinions?

My wife's VW Passat 100,000 extended warranty just expired. This car has
needed a lot of repairs, and is not affordable without the warranty. I've
always driven slightly older Volvos, currently a '96 850 non-turbo.
Considering a similar model for my wife, or maybe a S40 turbo. She would
prefer the slightly smaller platform, better fuel efficiency, sportier
performance. No need to haul kids, we're 50-something empty-nesters.

What is group's opinion on S40? Worthy of Volvo traditional reputation of
durability? I haven't driven one, but they look a little flimsy, maybe a
maintenance headache.

Are the 2000 - 2002 built well, or was this the typical first generation
problems era?

What are the typical problem spots?

Thanks,
Pat Q

 

I have a 2000 S40, and I'm happy with it. The only maintenance problem that I know of is
that the headlights burn out pretty fast. But you can get more definitive answersfrom the
annual issue of Consumer Reports on used cars. Most libraries in the US subscribe. Or go
to consumerreports.com.

 

My 1998 R reg has now got 316000 miles on it. I had a new gearbox at 80000
miles and last year at 270000 miles the cambelt snapped (bang on the sevice
interval, just unlucky) Got a second hand engine for £400 fitted. Guy said
that the first engine was still in top class condition and it was a shame to
replace but more cost effective to do so. Catalyser replaced at 172000 and
still going. Alternator and water pump replaced 212000. Headlamps do burn
out frequently but with regular maintenance you should be fine. Just keep
regular with the servicing and try to find a good mechanic. Mine still
starts first time every morning and although it looks a bit tired it still
gets me around. More than I can say for my Freelander (2003 52 plate, head
gasket failure at 43000, new engine time but covered under warranty, it goes
in the New Year!!!)

Cheers

Andy
Middlesbrough
UK

 

Andy, what engine does your mile munching S40 have?

 

b4184s, 1731 volvo engine, not the gdi

 

The GDi might have made it to 120k miles. Just.!

Tim..

 

Well, we acquired a 2002 S40 (lease return) last year, and just picked
up a 2001 V40.

The most expensive item is the service that needs to be done at the
dealership. Otherwise, regular items that don't need a real dealer go
to the local Mister Lube or Suter's Garage (Volvo certified and deals
fairly on questionable items).

Confortable ride, turbo is more like an afterburner (V is a bit
sluggish due to the 500 piounds of added metal). Only downside on the
S40 is the trunk when inserting largish items like storm doors (won't,
which is why we got the wagon.)

 

Is it really that much heavier? I have a 2000 V40. Wouldn't have thought
there was 500 pounds of metal in the whole car. My only complaint so far is
that it rattles a lot at idle and low speed. Seems like there's always
something (often a couple of somethings) buzzing as I pull out of my
driveway.