Hello!

I am seriously considering purchasing a used Volvo S40. Long story (relatively) short, I just paid a fortune on a new vehicle for my wife… and now would like to get myself something as well. I’m drawn to this particular car because of its combination of looks, safety record, performance and, most importantly, its appeal to my personal tastes.

I have about $10K to spend – give or taker a few thousand – which means I’d be looking at something in the 2001/2002 age range.

I’d truly appreciate any insight you can offer on how to best ensure I purchase a worthy vehicle that is not going to be a repair shop, bank-breaking nightmare of frustration. Of course, I realize that any vehicle from any manufacturer runs the high risk of major maintenance. But I’m hoping perhaps this group can tell me about major things to consider, ask questions about, avoid, etc.

For example, looking for guidance on any “typical major repairs” at certain age/mileage points on this vehicle’s life. Like, do these tend to have gasket problems at 70K, etc. Which repairs are the very worst and most likely? Stuff like that. That way, when shopping, I can find out if these sorts of things have already happened and have been fixed (preferable) … or if there’s still a chance that they might be due.

And any other tips that you wished someone told you when you sought to purchase one of these.

Thanks much!

 

I have a 2002 volvo s40 w/ 90000 miles now.

I have not had to worry about any major repairs but i have been dealing with plenty of annoying things that I believe are common with these cars.

1-make sure you use OEM brake pads/ rotors or else you will definetely get the squeek.

2-spark plugs and coils have been changed about 5 times for me already. once every 6 months or so.Make sure you use OEM or else it will be more often.

3-bulbs burn all the time, with my car mainly the headlights but ive heard all bulbs go out very quickly?!

4. turbo seal goes bad about every 15000 miles and leaks.

5 CEL goes on a lot.

6- thermostat and sensor is common to bad.

These are mainly what Ive dealt with.

I still do like the car a lot. It has a comfortable ride, good on gas, and fair with pick up. I hope this helps.

 

I have a 2002 S40 with 60K miles. Modified some. Car has been absolutely trouble free except for the temp. control module on the A/C. I did get a 100K ext. warranty on the car but so far o trouble.As posted above I would use Volvo parts such as plugs, etc. as cars dont seem to perform well with aftermarket stuff. BJ