Is the Volvo S40 Reliable?
2000–2011 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other sedans — plus systemic-defect concentration and any open federal investigations. It measures defect and recall risk, not long-term mechanical durability, and is deliberately not skewed by how many were sold.
Reliability Score
Own a Volvo S40? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Volvo S40 Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | 1 | 5 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2010 | 2 | 4 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2009 | 2 | 4 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2008 | 1 | 11 | 3 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2007 | 2 | 16 | 6 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2006 | 1 | 40 | 2 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2005 | 1 | 45 | 1 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2004 | 2 | 37 | 4 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2003 | 1 | 10 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2002 | 1 | 23 | 3 | — | 57 | Fair |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the S40 Compares to Similar Vehicles
The S40 scores exactly at the sedan average.
Known Volvo S40 Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 195 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Volvo S40 reliable?+
The Volvo S40 scores 72/100 on our reliability index — rated "Good." Across 10 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 14 recall campaigns and 195 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year S40 is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2011 S40 achieved the highest reliability score of 57/100 with 1 recall and 5 complaints.
How many miles does a S40 last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Volvo S40 owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used S40 will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Volvo S40 Research
Check a Specific Volvo S40 VIN
Model-level reliability scores show general trends. A VIN-specific report reveals the exact history of any individual vehicle — accidents, odometer records, auction events, and open recalls.
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