My wife and I are looking to buy a V40, and have seen mostly 2001s and 2004s available. I would like to get a 2004 simply because of the generally lower mileage, however the "reliability" section of autos.msn.com is scaring me:

http://autos.msn.com/research/vip/Re...&trimid=-1

For 2004 ONLY, the engine is described as having the following problems:

"Periodic problems on this vehicle are the failure of the Engine Intake Valves, Leak Detection Pump and Crankcase Ventilation Hose under the intake manifold. The cost to replace the Engine Intake Valves is estimated at $460.00 for parts and $1170.00 for labor. The cost to replace the Leak Detection Pump is estimated at $200.00 for parts and $130.00 for labor. The cost to replace the Crankcase Ventilation Hose is estimated at $50.00 for parts and $195.00 for labor. All prices are estimates based on $65 per flat rate hour and do not include diagnostic time or any applicable sales tax."

Can anyone comment on whether or not 2004s really exhibit this type of failure? Were there mechanical changes in 2004 that would cause these problems with this year and not with the others? How could engine reliability go from green to red from 2003 to 2004?

Any feedback would be great. Has anyone actually had their intake valves fail? What is the leak detection pump anyway?

 

I read the same comment on msn and had the exact same question in my mind. We're looking to buy a 2003 with 73k miles and 2004 comment makes me gunshy on the 2003. We're planning to use car in Texas.... 100 degrees and worry about heat and turbo. I'm checking with Texas friend mechanic and dealership service manager.

Why did Volvo discontinue this model?