Owners have filed 75 complaints
about the 2004 Volvo S40 with NHTSA between 2004 and 2020.
The largest single group is the electrical system.
Across this model's run it ranks 3 of 11 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 62
Against the median year of the Volvo S40. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 100
20% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 58
34% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
12.1%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
12.1%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
919.1%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
1123.4%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
714.9%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
919.1%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
817.0%
150,000+ miles
12.1%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
These stars come from the pre-2011 crash test programme. NHTSA
rebuilt the programme for the 2011 model year and states that
ratings either side of that change are not comparable — so do
not read these against a 2011-or-newer car's stars.
Frontal crash test
Side barrier crash test
Photographs taken by NHTSA during its own New Car Assessment Program crash
tests of this model year. Public domain.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2004 Volvo S40 4-DR. w/SAB (2004.5)
—
—
—
—
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Nov 2004peak 9Nov 2020
Recalls on the 2004 Volvo S40
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 201039687 units in Canada
Accessories
On certain vehicles, there is a possibility of overheating issues of batteries in the Garmin nüvi® 760 when certain batteries manufactured within a limited date code range are used in certain Garmin nüvi® 760 models with a specific printed circuit board (PCB) design. The interaction of these factors can, in some circumstances, increase the possibility of overheating, which may lead to a fire. Correction: Dealers will direct customers who have an affected unit to the Garmin Web site, which explains how to verify if their units are involved and includes procedures to follow for product exchange.
Recall 20080234,639 units in Canada
Fuel System
On certain vehicles, insufficient sealing of the Fuel Pump Electronic Module may lead to water ingress corrosion, possibly causing the unit to fail. This may result in increased, decreased, or loss of fuel pressure. Engine stalling would result in lost propulsion which, in conjunction with traffic and road conditions, and the driver's reactions, could increase the risk of a crash. Correction: Dealers will replace and relocate the Fuel Pump Electronic Module.
Recall 200606614,000 units in Canada
Seats And Restraints
Certain Volvo 850, S40, V40, V50, V70, XC70 and XC90 equipped with integrated child booster cushions were incorrectly labelled during vehicle assembly. The label indicates that the booster cushion can be used for children weighing between 15 and 36 kg (33 and 80 lb). CMVSS 213 states that the minimum weight for use must be 18 kg (40 lb). Should an underweight child be placed in the booster cushion and the vehicle is involved in a crash, the child may have a greater risk of injury. Correction: Volvo Canada will send a letter to owners explaining this problem and will supply updated weight limit decal to be applied to each side window.
Recall 200437087 units in Canada
Brakes
On certain vehicles, the vacuum valve and hose assembly at the brake booster could develop a vacuum leak due to an incorrect welding process during assembly. A vacuum leak at the brake booster would affect the performance of the power-assisted brakes. More brake pedal force may be required to stop the vehicle. Correction: Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the vacuum hose assembly.
Recall 20032612,285 units in Canada
Fuel System
On certain vehicles, improper welding of the end cover that secures the service nipple to the fuel rail may eventually cause a fuel leak. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source could create the risk of a vehicle fire and possible injury or death. Correction: Dealer will install a V-clamp securing device to the fuel rail.
Recall 200322610,712 units in Canada
Other
Certain vehicles do not comply with CMVSS 210.2. The symbol indicating the presence of a lower universal anchorage system, and a reproduction of this symbol were omitted from the owner's manual. Correction: The corrected owner's manual page will be mailed to owners.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Sanantonio, TXCrash1 injured
SERVICE BRAKES
I GOT NEW CAR IN NOV 2003 OF THE YEAR 2004 MODEL. IT FEELS LIKE ONE HAS TO PUT FOOT ON BRAKES ALL THE WAY TO APPLY. IT IS PROGRESSIVELY GETTING WORSE. IN DEC 2005, WHILE EXISTING FROM HIGHWAY WE MEET AN ACCIDENT AS IT DID NOT STOP WHERE IT WAS SUPPOSE TO STOP. VOLVO DEALER TOP THE BREAK FLUID DURING MAINTENANCE. BUT DID NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM. WE GOT NEW BRAKE PADS FROM VOLVO DEALER AND CHANGED ALONG WITH BRAKE DISCS IN 2009. BUT, IT DID NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM. IN THE MORNING, IT WILL NOT BREAK UNLESS ONE HAS TO PUT FOOT ON PEDAL FEW TIMES. AGAIN IN 2015 WE GOT BRAKE PADS FROM OTHER AUTO PART SHOP OF HIGH QUALITY BUT IT DOES NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM. IN ADDITION, I SMELL GAS BUT COULD NOT LOCATE ANY LEAK OF FUEL. ALSO, STEERING WHEEL IS VERY HARD AND WE TOOK TO VOLVO FEW TIMES BUT IT IS THE SAME.
NHTSA complaint #10794522 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sanantonio, TXCrash1 injured
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I GOT NEW CAR IN NOV 2003 OF THE YEAR 2004 MODEL. IT FEELS LIKE ONE HAS TO PUT FOOT ON BRAKES ALL THE WAY TO APPLY. IT IS PROGRESSIVELY GETTING WORSE. IN DEC 2005, WHILE EXISTING FROM HIGHWAY WE MEET AN ACCIDENT AS IT DID NOT STOP WHERE IT WAS SUPPOSE TO STOP. VOLVO DEALER TOP THE BREAK FLUID DURING MAINTENANCE. BUT DID NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM. WE GOT NEW BRAKE PADS FROM VOLVO DEALER AND CHANGED ALONG WITH BRAKE DISCS IN 2009. BUT, IT DID NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM. IN THE MORNING, IT WILL NOT BREAK UNLESS ONE HAS TO PUT FOOT ON PEDAL FEW TIMES. AGAIN IN 2015 WE GOT BRAKE PADS FROM OTHER AUTO PART SHOP OF HIGH QUALITY BUT IT DOES NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM. IN ADDITION, I SMELL GAS BUT COULD NOT LOCATE ANY LEAK OF FUEL. ALSO, STEERING WHEEL IS VERY HARD AND WE TOOK TO VOLVO FEW TIMES BUT IT IS THE SAME.
NHTSA complaint #10794522 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 40,000 milesBrentwood, CACrash1 injured
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLVO S40. WHILE DRIVING LESS THAN 50 MPH, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF THE PRECEDING VEHICLE. THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED, BUT THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG DID NOT. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE DRIVER WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL AND RELEASED WITH NO MAJOR INJURIES. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THEY PERFORMED A COMPLETE SAFETY INSPECTION ON THE VEHICLE PRIOR TO SELLING IT TO HER, AND THE DIAGNOSTIC DID NOT INDICATE ANY FAILURE WITH THE AIR BAG. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE LESS THAN 40,000.
NHTSA complaint #10261682 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 65,000 milesWinchester, VAFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLVO S40. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE RAPIDLY ACCELERATED AUTOMATICALLY. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT SLOW DOWN WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE CONTACT HAD A DIFFICULT TIME PULLING THE VEHICLE OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE VEHICLE BEHIND HER NOTIFIED HER THAT THE VEHICLE WAS ON FIRE. FLAMES APPEARED WHILE ATTEMPTING TO PULL OVER THE VEHICLE. THE POLICE DEPARTMENT WAS NOTIFIED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO HER RESIDENCE AND THEN TO THE VOLVO DEALER. THE TIRES AND OTHER EQUIPMENT WERE DAMAGED BY THE FLAMES. THE VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY BEING DIAGNOSED BY THE DEALER. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 65,000.
NHTSA complaint #10253229 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 65,000 milesWinchester, VAFire
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLVO S40. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE RAPIDLY ACCELERATED AUTOMATICALLY. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT SLOW DOWN WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE CONTACT HAD A DIFFICULT TIME PULLING THE VEHICLE OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE VEHICLE BEHIND HER NOTIFIED HER THAT THE VEHICLE WAS ON FIRE. FLAMES APPEARED WHILE ATTEMPTING TO PULL OVER THE VEHICLE. THE POLICE DEPARTMENT WAS NOTIFIED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO HER RESIDENCE AND THEN TO THE VOLVO DEALER. THE TIRES AND OTHER EQUIPMENT WERE DAMAGED BY THE FLAMES. THE VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY BEING DIAGNOSED BY THE DEALER. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 65,000.
NHTSA complaint #10253229 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 37,171 milesLowell, MACrash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLVO S40. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO PARK THE VEHICLE WITH THE BRAKE PEDAL DEPRESSED, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN AND CRASHED INTO A TELEPHONE POLE. THE CONTACT WAS UNINJURED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND THEY REPAIRED THE DAMAGES AT THE COST OF $8,000. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DETERMINED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 37,171 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 38100 UPDATED 1/5/09 *CN UPDATED 01/09/09.
NHTSA complaint #10250389 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
at 123,713 milesWaterflow, NM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
HAVING A COOLANT LEAKAGE, CRASH MODE AND SAFETY ALARM SYSTEM CHECK KEEPS COMING ON...WHEN CRASH MODE COMES ON...CAR JUST SHUTS OFF.
NHTSA complaint #11373691 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 123,713 milesWaterflow, NM
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS
HAVING A COOLANT LEAKAGE, CRASH MODE AND SAFETY ALARM SYSTEM CHECK KEEPS COMING ON...WHEN CRASH MODE COMES ON...CAR JUST SHUTS OFF.
NHTSA complaint #11373691 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 145,000 milesN/A, OH
TIRES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLVO S40 EQUIPPED WITH COOPER ZEON RS3-A TIRES, SIZE: 205/55/16R (NA). THE CONTACT HEARD A LOUD HUMMING NOISE COMING FROM THE TIRES. THE INSIDE OF THE TREAD HAD A LINE AND THE CONTACT NOTICED DAMAGE OR AN OPENING. AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC CONFIRMED THAT THE TIRES WERE SEPARATING AT THE TREAD LINE. AN UNKNOWN TIRE DEALER STATED THAT THE TIRES WERE NOT UNDER WARRANTY AFTER THE TIRES HAD BEEN OWNED FOR OVER THREE YEARS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE VEHICLE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 145,000. THE TIRE FAILURE MILEAGE AND VIN WERE UNKNOWN.
NHTSA complaint #11265371 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 140,000 milesCharlotte, NC
AIR BAGS
NO COLLISION. SRS LIGHT HAS BEEN COMING ON SINCE 2007. DEALERSHIP HAS REPLACED WIRING, AIR BAGS AND NOTHING HELPS. SRS LIGHT COMES ON EVERY 7 TO 12 MONTHS. THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR 11 YEARS.
NHTSA complaint #11100343 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
French Camp, CA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
THE KEY DOES NOT TURN ALL THE WAY TO TURN THE IGNITION - IT'S LOCKED AFTER TURNING I AND II (NOT TO III). I HAD TO HAVE THE CAR TOWED. I COULD HAVE BEEN STRANDED IN AN UNSAFE AREA. I CALLED VOLVO CUSTOMER SERVICE, BUT I WAS TOLD IT'S NOT UNDER WARRANTY ANYMORE. I WENT TO YOUTUBE AS TO HOW I COULD FIX IT AND FOUND OUT QUITE A FEE S40 OWNERS HAVE SIMILAR PROBLEMS. I WAS TOLD THAT THE COST TO FIX THIS WOULD RUN ABOUT $1000. I FOUND A WAY TO GET AROUND MAKING IT WORK BY REMOVING THE STEERING COVER, PULL THE IGNITION SWITCH WITH A SCREW DRIVER. WITHOUT THE KEY ON THE IGNITION, IT STILL POSES A SAFETY ISSUES BECAUSE WHAT IF THE STEERING LOCKS WHILE I AM DRIVING? ANOTHER ISSUE IS THE SUSPENSION: THE CAR FEEL AS IF IT'S FALLING APART. TWICE WE SPENT OVER A THOUSAND FOR EACH OCCURRENCE. I'M QUITE CERTAIN THERE HAVE A FEW COMPLAINTS ON SIMILAR ISSUES. I WOULD APPRECIATE IT VERY MUCH IF YOU COULD KEEP ME IN THE LOOP IF ISSUES COME UP ON THIS MAKE, MODEL AND YEAR WE STILL OWN AND KEEP ON DRIVING. I ALMOST FORGOT, ONE OF THE HEAD LIGHTS DOES NOT AND EVEN SIMPLE REPLACING WITH ONE AFTER A BULB, STILL DOES NOT WORK. I GUESS IT NEEDS A TRIP TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR THEM TO FIGURE IT OUT. AFTER ALL, SUDDEN HEADLIGHT FAILURE WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT, IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR CONSIDERING TO TAKE MY ISSUES.
NHTSA complaint #11084482 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
French Camp, CA
SUSPENSION
THE KEY DOES NOT TURN ALL THE WAY TO TURN THE IGNITION - IT'S LOCKED AFTER TURNING I AND II (NOT TO III). I HAD TO HAVE THE CAR TOWED. I COULD HAVE BEEN STRANDED IN AN UNSAFE AREA. I CALLED VOLVO CUSTOMER SERVICE, BUT I WAS TOLD IT'S NOT UNDER WARRANTY ANYMORE. I WENT TO YOUTUBE AS TO HOW I COULD FIX IT AND FOUND OUT QUITE A FEE S40 OWNERS HAVE SIMILAR PROBLEMS. I WAS TOLD THAT THE COST TO FIX THIS WOULD RUN ABOUT $1000. I FOUND A WAY TO GET AROUND MAKING IT WORK BY REMOVING THE STEERING COVER, PULL THE IGNITION SWITCH WITH A SCREW DRIVER. WITHOUT THE KEY ON THE IGNITION, IT STILL POSES A SAFETY ISSUES BECAUSE WHAT IF THE STEERING LOCKS WHILE I AM DRIVING? ANOTHER ISSUE IS THE SUSPENSION: THE CAR FEEL AS IF IT'S FALLING APART. TWICE WE SPENT OVER A THOUSAND FOR EACH OCCURRENCE. I'M QUITE CERTAIN THERE HAVE A FEW COMPLAINTS ON SIMILAR ISSUES. I WOULD APPRECIATE IT VERY MUCH IF YOU COULD KEEP ME IN THE LOOP IF ISSUES COME UP ON THIS MAKE, MODEL AND YEAR WE STILL OWN AND KEEP ON DRIVING. I ALMOST FORGOT, ONE OF THE HEAD LIGHTS DOES NOT AND EVEN SIMPLE REPLACING WITH ONE AFTER A BULB, STILL DOES NOT WORK. I GUESS IT NEEDS A TRIP TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR THEM TO FIGURE IT OUT. AFTER ALL, SUDDEN HEADLIGHT FAILURE WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT, IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR CONSIDERING TO TAKE MY ISSUES.
NHTSA complaint #11084482 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
French Camp, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
THE KEY DOES NOT TURN ALL THE WAY TO TURN THE IGNITION - IT'S LOCKED AFTER TURNING I AND II (NOT TO III). I HAD TO HAVE THE CAR TOWED. I COULD HAVE BEEN STRANDED IN AN UNSAFE AREA. I CALLED VOLVO CUSTOMER SERVICE, BUT I WAS TOLD IT'S NOT UNDER WARRANTY ANYMORE. I WENT TO YOUTUBE AS TO HOW I COULD FIX IT AND FOUND OUT QUITE A FEE S40 OWNERS HAVE SIMILAR PROBLEMS. I WAS TOLD THAT THE COST TO FIX THIS WOULD RUN ABOUT $1000. I FOUND A WAY TO GET AROUND MAKING IT WORK BY REMOVING THE STEERING COVER, PULL THE IGNITION SWITCH WITH A SCREW DRIVER. WITHOUT THE KEY ON THE IGNITION, IT STILL POSES A SAFETY ISSUES BECAUSE WHAT IF THE STEERING LOCKS WHILE I AM DRIVING? ANOTHER ISSUE IS THE SUSPENSION: THE CAR FEEL AS IF IT'S FALLING APART. TWICE WE SPENT OVER A THOUSAND FOR EACH OCCURRENCE. I'M QUITE CERTAIN THERE HAVE A FEW COMPLAINTS ON SIMILAR ISSUES. I WOULD APPRECIATE IT VERY MUCH IF YOU COULD KEEP ME IN THE LOOP IF ISSUES COME UP ON THIS MAKE, MODEL AND YEAR WE STILL OWN AND KEEP ON DRIVING. I ALMOST FORGOT, ONE OF THE HEAD LIGHTS DOES NOT AND EVEN SIMPLE REPLACING WITH ONE AFTER A BULB, STILL DOES NOT WORK. I GUESS IT NEEDS A TRIP TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR THEM TO FIGURE IT OUT. AFTER ALL, SUDDEN HEADLIGHT FAILURE WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT, IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR CONSIDERING TO TAKE MY ISSUES.
NHTSA complaint #11084482 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 140,000 milesBridgewater, MA
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
THE ISSUE OF NO HEADLIGHTS (LOW-BULB FAILURE) IS DANGEROUS & EXPENSIVE. NOR IS THERE A VIABLE PERMANENT REPAIR AS THE "LOW-BULB FAILURE" ALWAYS RE-OCCURS & HAS BEEN AN ONGOING PROBLEM FOR ME SINCE MY CAR WAS NEW. SUDDENLY HAVING NO HEADLIGHTS CAUSES A SERIOUS & IMMEDIATE SAFETY ISSUE FOR OCCUPANTS OF THE CAR & FOR ONCOMING TRAFFIC WHO CAN'T SEE A CAR WITHOUT HEADLIGHTS. IT CAN BE 1 HEADLIGHT OR BOTH THAT FAIL WITHOUT WARNING; LEAVING NO TIME TO BRING A VEHICLE TO A STOP SAFELY. THE EXPERIENCE IS FRIGHTENING & DANGEROUS IN THOSE TENSE MOMENTS IT TAKES TO STOP A MOVING CAR ON THE ROAD WITHOUT HEADLIGHTS. I HAVE EVEN BEEN ISSUED A VIOLATION TICKET FROM THE POLICE FOR EQUIPMENT FAILURE DESPITE NUMEROUS REPAIR BILLS THAT I KEEP IN THE CAR. AFTER REPEATED ATTEMPTS AT GETTING VOLVO TO FIX THIS ISSUE, I REPORTED THE PROBLEM TO NHTSA SEVERAL YEARS AGO BUT WAS TOLD THERE HAD NOT BEEN ENOUGH COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE HEADLIGHT FAILURE PROBLEM TO DO ANYTHING. NOW, YEARS HAVE GONE BY AND I AM STILL DEALING WITH A CAR THAT IS ESSENTIALLY A DAYTIME ONLY CAR AS IT IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE AFTER DARK DUE TO THE UNPREDICTABLE LOSS OF HEADLIGHTS. EACH TIME THE HEADLIGHTS FAIL I BRING THE CAR FOR SERVICE AND EVERY TIME THE HEADLIGHT FAILS AGAIN AND AGAIN WITHIN WEEKS OF THE "REPAIR". REPAIR COST ARE IN THE $500 RANGE. THERE IS NO RECOURSE FOR THE REPAIRS OTHER THAN TO TRY SOMETHING NEW. IT HAS BECOME A PROBLEM THAT IS WIDELY KNOWN AT REPAIR SHOPS; AND AFTERMARKET REPAIR KITS ARE NOW COMMON BECAUSE VOLVO HAS IGNORED THE ISSUE STATING THAT THERE IS NOT A PROBLEM TO ME. IT IS EASY TO FIND MANY CAR OWNERS WITH THE SAME ISSUE AND FRUSTRATIONS ON THE INTERNET AS WELL AS SUITS BROUGHT AGAINST OTHER AUTO MANUFACTURERS FOR THE WIDE-SCALE FAILURE OF THESE USELESS, DEFECTIVE HEADLIGHTS. NHTSA SHOULD PROHIBIT THESE HEADLIGHTS AND FORCE ACTION FOR THOSE RESPONSIBLE TO ADDRESS THIS KNOWN SAFETY ISSUE.
NHTSA complaint #10940120 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 42,000 milesVienna, VA
SERVICE BRAKES
BRAKE PEDAL IS TOO CLOSE TO ACCELERATOR PEDAL. WHENEVER I OPERATE THE GAS PEDAL, THE SIDE OF MY SHOE ALSO ACTIVATES THE BRAKE. THE PROBLEM IS AGGRAVATED BY THE CENTER TUNNEL CARPET INTRUDING ON THE MINIMAL ACCELERATOR PEDAL SPACE.
NHTSA complaint #10908871 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Castle Rock, WA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
MY VEHICLE DOORS LOCK UP AND CAN'T BE UNLOCKED DUE TO FAULTY LOCKS. NO WAY TO GET DOOR OR DOORS TO UNLOCK. WHICH CAN CAUSE DEATH IF INVOLVED IN A ROLL OVER, SUBMERGED, OR ANY MAJOR ACCIDENTS. IT CAN BE ANY DOOR ON THE VEHICLE. ON MINE IT'S MY REAR PASSENGER DOOR WHICH MY CHILD SITS NEXT TOO IN HER CAR SEAT. I'VE READ MANY OTHER VOLVOS HAVE THIS ISSUE AND VERY COSTLY TO REPAIR. VOLVO SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE AS I HAVE BEEN TOLD BY A VOLVO DEALER MECHANIC THAT THESE S40 ARE VERY KNOWN TO HAVE THIS ISSUE. FOR MY EXPERIENCE OF THIS HAPPENING IS JUST DRIVING HOME AND PARKING. TRIED TO GET MY DAUGHTER OUT AND IT WOULD NOT UNLOCK. THE KEY FAUBOURG, THE POWER LOCK SWITCH AND TRIED PULLING ON HANDLE AND NOTHING UNLOCKS THIS DOOR. I READ THAT THE LOCK ACTUATORS ARE THE CAUSE OR ITS THE WIRING HARNESS. I ALSO HAVE THIS PROBLEM IN THE TRUNK. ONLY THE KID NAPPED CORD WORKS TO GET THE TRUNK TO OPEN. PLEASE GET VOLVO TO FIX ALL THERE ACTUATORS BEFORE KIDS OR ADULTS GET TRAPPED AND KILLED CAUSE OF THEIR NEGLIGENCE
NHTSA complaint #10903603 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 104,000 milesMadison HTS, VA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
CAR IS STALLING OUT WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON WHEN PUT ON MACHINE ERROR GIVEN IS FUEL PRESSURE. THE FUEL PRESSURE WAS CHECKED AND WAS AT CORRECT PRESSURE FOR THE CAR. I HAVE REPLACED FUEL CENSER AND CAR RAN FINE FOR 2 DAYS THEN SAME ISSUE WITH SAME ERROR THE FUEL CONTROLLER HAS A CORRODED PEN I TRIED TO CALL VOLVO THEY ARE TELLING ME THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO WHEN I CAN CLEARLY SEE THE YEAR MAKE AND MODEL HAVE HAD A RECALL FOR THE EXACT ISSUE THAT I AM HAVING WITH THIS CAR. THE RECALL NUMBER IN YOUR SYSTEM IS 08V033000 I NORMALLY WOULD JUST GET THE CAR FIXED BUT THIS IS A MAJOR ISSUE IT SEEMS THE LOCATION OF THE CONTROLLER NEEDS TO BE MOVED TO PREVENT THIS FROM HAPPENING AGAIN. THIS IS A CAR MY 16 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER DRIVES SO YOU CAN UNDERSTAND MY CONCERN WITH VOVLO NOT WANTING TO CORRECT THIS
NHTSA complaint #10875785 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sanantonio, TXCrash1 injured
SERVICE BRAKES
I GOT NEW CAR IN NOV 2003 OF THE YEAR 2004 MODEL. IT FEELS LIKE ONE HAS TO PUT FOOT ON BRAKES ALL THE WAY TO APPLY. IT IS PROGRESSIVELY GETTING WORSE. IN DEC 2005, WHILE EXISTING FROM HIGHWAY WE MEET AN ACCIDENT AS IT DID NOT STOP WHERE IT WAS SUPPOSE TO STOP. VOLVO DEALER TOP THE BREAK FLUID DURING MAINTENANCE. BUT DID NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM. WE GOT NEW BRAKE PADS FROM VOLVO DEALER AND CHANGED ALONG WITH BRAKE DISCS IN 2009. BUT, IT DID NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM. IN THE MORNING, IT WILL NOT BREAK UNLESS ONE HAS TO PUT FOOT ON PEDAL FEW TIMES. AGAIN IN 2015 WE GOT BRAKE PADS FROM OTHER AUTO PART SHOP OF HIGH QUALITY BUT IT DOES NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM. IN ADDITION, I SMELL GAS BUT COULD NOT LOCATE ANY LEAK OF FUEL. ALSO, STEERING WHEEL IS VERY HARD AND WE TOOK TO VOLVO FEW TIMES BUT IT IS THE SAME.
NHTSA complaint #10794522 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sanantonio, TXCrash1 injured
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I GOT NEW CAR IN NOV 2003 OF THE YEAR 2004 MODEL. IT FEELS LIKE ONE HAS TO PUT FOOT ON BRAKES ALL THE WAY TO APPLY. IT IS PROGRESSIVELY GETTING WORSE. IN DEC 2005, WHILE EXISTING FROM HIGHWAY WE MEET AN ACCIDENT AS IT DID NOT STOP WHERE IT WAS SUPPOSE TO STOP. VOLVO DEALER TOP THE BREAK FLUID DURING MAINTENANCE. BUT DID NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM. WE GOT NEW BRAKE PADS FROM VOLVO DEALER AND CHANGED ALONG WITH BRAKE DISCS IN 2009. BUT, IT DID NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM. IN THE MORNING, IT WILL NOT BREAK UNLESS ONE HAS TO PUT FOOT ON PEDAL FEW TIMES. AGAIN IN 2015 WE GOT BRAKE PADS FROM OTHER AUTO PART SHOP OF HIGH QUALITY BUT IT DOES NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM. IN ADDITION, I SMELL GAS BUT COULD NOT LOCATE ANY LEAK OF FUEL. ALSO, STEERING WHEEL IS VERY HARD AND WE TOOK TO VOLVO FEW TIMES BUT IT IS THE SAME.
NHTSA complaint #10794522 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Humble, TX
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLVO S40. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AND THE BRAKE PEDAL BECAME DIFFICULT TO DEPRESS. ALSO, THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT DUE TO THE PROXIMITY OF THE PEDALS, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS INADVERTENTLY DEPRESSED WHEN APPLYING THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #10681587 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Humble, TX
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLVO S40. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AND THE BRAKE PEDAL BECAME DIFFICULT TO DEPRESS. ALSO, THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT DUE TO THE PROXIMITY OF THE PEDALS, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS INADVERTENTLY DEPRESSED WHEN APPLYING THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #10681587 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 100,625 milesPlymouth, MN
ENGINE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLVO S40. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE DID NOT RESTART. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE PEM WAS FAULTY. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,625. UPDATED 04/07/15*LJ UPDATED 11/3/2015
NHTSA complaint #10681175 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
East Stroudsburg, PA
ENGINE
I JUST BROUGHT THE CAR FROM JCL AUTO SALES IN ALLENTOWN PA AT THE END OF AUGUST AND MY CHECK ENGINE CONTINUES TO COME ON.
NHTSA complaint #10652766 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 163,000 milesHardwick, VT
SERVICE BRAKES
FOR THE PAST TWO MORNINGS MY CAR HAS NO BRAKES WHEN I FIRST START MY CAR, ONCE I HAVE BEEN DRIVING FOR A FEW MINUTES IT'S OKAY, BUT FIRST THING THE PAST TWO MORNINGS I HAVEN'T HAD BRAKES!
NHTSA complaint #10641123 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 118,600 milesNorth Canton, OH
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLVO S40. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE ENGINE STALLED. THE CHECK ENGINE AND BATTERY INDICATORS ILLUMINATED WHEN THE FAILURE OCCURRED, AND THE VEHICLE VEERED TO THE RIGHT. THE CONTACT PULLED THE VEHICLE TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT RESTART AND WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE FAILURE OCCURRED TWICE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED AND ADVISED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 08V033000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). A DIAGNOSTIC TEST INDICATED THAT THE FUEL PUMP MODULE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED AND THE FAILURE DID NOT RECUR. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 118,600. ..UPDATED 08/11/14 *BF THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED AT THE OWNER'S EXPENSE. UPDATED 08/21/2014
NHTSA complaint #10597709 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 95,000 milesClifton Park, NY
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLVO S40. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED WITHOUT WARNING. THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED AND ADVISED HIM THAT THE OCCUPANT WEIGHT SENSOR MAY HAVE FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND THEY OFFERED HIM A 10 PERCENT COUPON. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 95,000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 110,000.
NHTSA complaint #10485192 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 81,356 milesColumbus, GA
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
FIRST OCCURRENCE ABOUT 87000 MILES WAS TRAVELING ON FREEWAY WHEN CAR STALLED. STARTED IT BACK UP AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALER AND THEY INSTALLED NEW SPARK PLUG AND WIRES. STALLED AGAIN AT ABOUT 89000 MILES AND WAS TOLD TO BRING BACK WHEN CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME BACK ON. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AGAIN AND TOOK VEHICLE IN ON SATURDAY BUT STORE WAS REMODELING AND COULDN'T GET ME IN. TOOK CAR IN FOR 90000 MILE SERVICE AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WAS ON. WAS TOLD THAT SPARK PLUGS WERE INSTALLED. I INFORMED THEM I HAD SPARK PLUGS AND WIRES INSTALLED THE LAST SERVICE AND THAT THIS STALLING OF MY VEHICLE IS DANGEROUS. WAS TOLD THAT AFTER THE SPARK PLUGS WERE INSTALLED IT CLEARED THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND THAT I WOULD HAVE TO BRING THE CAR IN AGAIN WHEN THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WAS ON. DEALERSHIP HAS BEEN OF NO HELP WITH THIS ISSUE. LOOKED ONLINE FOR PEOPLE WITH SIMILAR PROBLEMS AND IT POINTS TO RECALL #08V033000.
NHTSA complaint #10455940 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 89,000 milesFeaterville, PA
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLVO S40. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAGS WERE PREVIOUSLY REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY DUE TO THE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATING CONTINUOUSLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR ROUTINE MAINTENANCE BUT THE DEALER INFORMED HIM THAT THE AIR BAGS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO CONTACT THE MANUFACTURER TO NO AVAIL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 89,000.
NHTSA complaint #10451589 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 89,000 milesFeasterville, PA
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLVO S40. WHILE THE CONTACT STARTED THE IGNITION, THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR BEGAN TO ILLUMINATE CONTINUOUSLY UNTIL THE ENGINE WAS TURNED OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER, WHERE THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG WAS REPLACED. ONE YEAR LATER, AFTER THE REPAIR WAS PERFORMED THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE AIR BAG WAS REPLACED FOR A SECOND TIME. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 89,000.
NHTSA complaint #10451421 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 6,000 milesGrove City, OH
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLVO S40. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE EXPERIENCED A SIGNIFICANT INCREASE IN STOPPING DISTANCE WHILE BRAKING ON THREE OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO HAVE THE FAILURE DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL ASSOCIATED WITH NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 04V493000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 6,000.
NHTSA complaint #10448990 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 97,000 milesSayville, NY
STRUCTURE:BODY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLVO S40. THE CONTACT STATED THE FLOOR BEHIND THE DRIVERS SIDE SEAT WAS SOAKING WET. THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED AND ADVISED HIM THAT THE WATER WAS ENTERING THE VEHICLE FROM THE DRAINAGE ON THE SUNROOF. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 97,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #10424717 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
