2003 Volvo S40

2003 Volvo S40

Available with a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated inline-5 engine producing 168 horsepower and 169 lb-ft of torque, or a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-5 engine producing 218 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission.

Owners praise the S40’s comfortable ride, stylish exterior, and available turbocharged engine. However, some have reported issues with certain components.

Engine

2.4-liter Naturally Aspirated Inline-5

• Intake Manifold Runner Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning intake manifold runners cause reduced engine power, rough idling, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Seal Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: A leaking crankshaft seal allows oil to enter the engine, resulting in decreased oil levels, engine smoking, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4-liter Turbocharged Inline-5

• Turbocharger Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the turbocharger can lead to reduced engine power, increased exhaust smoke, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger and associated components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-speed Manual

• Shifting Difficulty:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may become difficult to shift, especially into higher gears.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission oil and inspect the clutch and linkage for wear.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

5-speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip or hesitate while shifting, resulting in rough shifting and reduced performance.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission fluid and filter, or overhaul the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn or damaged strut mounts can cause knocking or rattling noises from the front of the vehicle, as well as decreased handling and stability.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: A failing alternator can lead to decreased battery power, dimming headlights, and potential electrical system damage.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation:
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture can build up inside the headlight assemblies, resulting in condensation or water droplets.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight assemblies or seal the existing ones.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Latch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The center console latch can break, making it difficult to open or close the center console.
  • Solution: Replace the center console latch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The power windows may become inoperative due to failed window motors or switches.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

While the 2003 Volvo S40 offers a comfortable ride and stylish design, it has experienced some issues that can be costly to repair, particularly with the engine and transmission. However, the severity and frequency of these issues vary, and many owners have had reliable experiences with their vehicles.