Thinking about buying a used Volvo S40 (2004–2019) in New Zealand? We've documented 6 known faults for this model spanning transmission, engine, and suspension. Each researched and verified before it's published. The most serious issues here are rated major. Two are set out in full below — the rest, with the symptoms, repair costs and checks for each, are free with an account.
6
Major
$350–$1,500
3
The P1 S40/V50 (badged under V40 here) uses Aisin automatics that, on cars whose 'lifetime' fluid was never changed, can shift harshly, slip or fail. Symptoms are jerky or delayed changes, flaring and sometimes limp mode. A fluid-and-filter service helps a healthy box; a slipping one may need a rebuild. Ask specifically about fluid history.
Symptoms to notice
What to check
Ask the seller
The V40 diesel's EGR valve is the most common reason for a workshop visit, clogging with carbon and soot and causing rough idle, power loss, higher fuel use and a check-engine light (often P0401). It affects both the older 1.6 and the later 2.0 diesel. Cleaning sometimes helps; a badly clogged or failed valve needs replacing. City-driven cars clog fastest.
Symptoms to notice
What to check
Ask the seller
Symptoms, what to check, where to look and what to ask the seller — for every fault above. Free with an account, no card needed. One account covers one vehicle, so make it the car you’re actually looking at.
This page covers the model. Enter the plate of the actual car you’re looking at and see its year, engine, safety rating and register flags — free, no account needed.
Like any used car, it depends on the specific example and its service history. Across the 6 documented faults for the Volvo S40, the recurring problem areas are transmission, engine, and suspension. A Volvo S40 with a full service history and no signs of the issues listed on this page can be a sound buy but each one needs to be checked individually before you commit.
We've catalogued 6 known faults for the Volvo S40, covering transmission, engine, and suspension. Two are written out in full on this page. The rest — with the symptoms to notice, what to inspect, and typical repair costs for each — are free once you create an account.
Most single repairs on the Volvo S40 fall between $350–$1,500 at NZ independent-workshop rates. Some of the 6 documented faults cost less and a few cost considerably more, and no one car needs them all. Knowing which ones to look for before you view is what lets you negotiate the price down or walk away.
Yes. A Volvo S40 inspection focused on its known weak points is the single best way to avoid an expensive mistake. KickTyres gives you a guided, model-specific inspection plus a market valuation and negotiation figure for $17.90 far less than the cost of missing one of the faults on this page.