So i'm looking to get out of the Volkswagen world, I think I have done the whole deal from Mk2's to Mk4's and I'm tired of them. And I have been checking out cars that are automatic, weird for me. So i heard the Volvo s40 was nice. So i test drove a 2001, thats about what I can afford to buy and I really liked it. Before I jump into anything I have some questions. What are some typical problems? I hear electrical is a pain on Volvo's but being a European car owner my whole life I realise that is pretty status quo. What are the best upgrades for the money? Are there any free or cheap upgrades? I realise that for performance the best upgrades are suspension and brakes, then more power. And what are your guys opinions on the 2001 s40's? And what are some good parts places or places to get aftermarket performance pieces from. I'm aware of Eurosport . Thanks in advance.

 

I have a 2002 S40 with 58K on the clock. Only problem I have encountered so far is with the automatic climate control-it is in the shop being fixed as we speak. My car has a HEICO exhaust, Enki wheels with DunlopA2 tires, a front strut tower brace and a rear strut tower brace from VolvoMotorSports,a stiffer sub-frame connector,the aero package from a Volvo S40 Sports, the "real" leather shifter and steering wheel from anS40 Sports,a 22mm rear sway bar,a cold air kit and a computer upgrade.It sits about 1/2 inch lower than stock as if you go much lower you risk demolishing your front aero kit. The car handles great,is fairly quick, very reliable and still retians the ability to get good mileage.You have to shop around to find upgrades, but they are out there. If I were starting out with the car, I would focus on handling, then worry about performance. Nothing is free or even cheap..Try ipd.usa,SwedeSpeed,VolvoMotorSports,HEICO,upsolute for chip upgrades.bj