Model year

2003 Volvo S40

Sedan, gasoline, built in Netherlands. Owner complaints on file from May 4, 2003 to Nov 7, 2021.

Recall campaigns covering this model year2235k vehicles or units across those campaigns
Owner complaints18Below the median 2003 sedan
Severity index5.62003 sedans average 11.6
First 24 months7Complaints in its first two years
Complaints over time

Complaints about the 2003 Volvo S40 peaked in 2004, with 4 filed

Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.

012342003420052007200920112013201520172019202120232026
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. The lighter column runs through October.
Components

33% of complaints about the 2003 Volvo S40 name powertrain

Owner complaints by component. Hover or focus a bar for the crash, fire, injury or death count.

Powertrain
6
Electrical system
3
Fuel system
3
Engine and cooling
2
Suspension
2
Tires
2
Speed control
2
Equipment
1
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. A complaint can name more than one component; it is counted under the first.
Recalls

2 recall campaigns cover the 2003 Volvo S40

Check a specific vehicle by VIN on NHTSA's site: a campaign may cover only part of a model year's production.

Recall campaigns for the 2003 Volvo S40
CampaignFiledSubjectComponentVehiclesRemedy
03V-424Oct 24, 2003On certain sedans and station wagons, there may be a fuel leak from the fuel rail due to inadequate weldingFuel system15,067Repair or modification
03V-284Aug 1, 2003Certain passenger cars fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 225, "child restraint anchorage systems."…Equipment220,407Repair or modification
Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Owner complaints

What owners reported about the 2003 Volvo S40

The full text of every complaint filed with NHTSA about this model year, newest first. Complaints are filed by owners and are not verified by NHTSA; NHTSA removes personal details before publishing.

18 complaints on file, page 1 of 1.

  1. Filed Nov 7, 2021Failure Nov 7, 2021Scotts Valley, CAEngine

    Engine light stays on. I have had 2 mechanics check it out. They don't know why the light is on. I am very concerned about the fuel line problem.

    NHTSA complaint 11439636
  2. Filed Dec 7, 2018Failure Nov 26, 2018120,000 milesOneida, NYSuspension

    THE REAR STRUT/SHOCKS CONTINUE TO BREAK/CRACK OVER AND OVER. I HAVE GONE THROUGH 3 NEW STRUTS AND SHOCKS AND THEY CONTINUE TO BREAK. I ALSO HAVE GONE TO THE JUNKYARD AND ALL OF THE S40 AND V40'S HAVE ALL OF THEIR STRUTS/SHOCKS BROKEN. I'VE WITNESSED OVER 6 S40 OR V40'S LIKE THIS NOW. MY CAR HAS FAILED INSPECTION BECAUSE OF THIS AND IT IS A SAFETY CONCERN. IT SEEMS THIS IS A COMMON ISSUE ON EVERY S40 AND V40 FROM THE YEARS 2001-2004. IT'S ABSOLUTELY RIDICULOUS THAT THESE STRUTS/SHOCKS CONTINUE TO BREAK. THERE SHOULD DEFINITELY BE A RECALL.

    NHTSA complaint 11156873
  3. Filed Jan 31, 2018Failure Jan 30, 2018108,000 milesBoynton Beach, FLElectrical system, Power train, Vehicle speed control

    PRIOR TO LATEST INCIDENT, THE CAR HAD OCCASIONALLY GONE INTO "LIMP" MODE, STICKING IN 3RD GEAR BUT DRIVABLE. THAT PROBLEM WOULD GO AWAY AFTER A DAY OR SO. LOCAL SHOP COULDN'T FIND ANYTHING DEFINITIVE. BIGGER PROBLEM WAS YESTERDAY EVENING'S LOSS OF THROTTLE CONTROL AND MULTIPLE ELECTRICAL ISSUES. IDLE THROTTLE SETTING (EG STOPPED AT LIGHTS) BECAME UNSTABLE, OCCASIONALLY REVVING UPTO TO ~2000RPM. MOMENTS LATER ON SUBURBAN DIVIDED MAIN STREET, THROTTLE STUCK AT ~2200RPM WHICH MEANT I WAS DOING 45MPH (STRAIGHT LINE) WITHOUT ANY PRESSURE APPLIED TO GAS PEDAL. SLOWED ON THE BRAKES UNTIL I SHIFTED INTO NEUTRAL AT WHICH TIME EVERYTHING DIED (ELECTRICAL) AND CAME TO A STOP, SHORT OF TRAFFIC LIGHTS. TIME OF INCIDENT APPROX 8PM EST (DARK), ROADWAY FULLY LIT THANKFULLY. CAR WAS PUSHED OFF STREET. SOME ELECTRICS CAME BACK ON WHEN TRIED BUT FULL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTS (IE EVERYTHING) ACROSS ENTIRE DASH. TOWED HOME. REMOVED IGNITION KEY (WAS INSERTED TO ENSURE STEERING WAS UNLOCKED) BUT RADIATOR COOLING FAN REMAINED ON (ENGINE HADN'T RUN FOR 2.5 HOURS BY THAT TIME). PULLED A FUSE UNDER THE HOOD TO STOP IT DUMPING THE BATTERY. CAR IS NO YOUNGSTER, MANUF 2003 IN NETHERLANDS, PURCHASED SECOND HAND IN 2005 WITH APPROX 20,000 MILES ON THE CLOCK. CURRENTLY AT 108,000 ISH. OTHER ISSUES WITH CAR (NOT SAFETY RELATED) MEANS I WONT BE HAVING IT FIXED GIVEN ITS AGE AND GENERAL COSMETIC CONDITION. IT WILL BE DONATED FOR SCRAP.

    NHTSA complaint 11066109
  4. Filed Feb 8, 2013Failure Feb 9, 2012125,000 milesWilliamsburg, VAElectrical system

    I RETURNED TO MY CAR AND FOUND THAT I COULD NOT TURN THE IGNITION SWITCH AND AS A RESULT OF THE SECURITY SYSTEM MY CAR WAS TOTALLY INOPERATIVE. THE CAR HAD TO BE TOWED TO THE NEAREST DEALER, WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH A BROKEN IGNITION SWITCH, SPECIFICALLY THE DEVICE THAT READS THE CHIP IN THE KEY HAS FAILED AND WILL NOT ACCEPT ANY KEY. CURRENTLY THE CAR HAS BEEN SITTING AT THE DEALER FOR OVER 4 WEEKS. BECAUSE THE KEYS AND SWITCHES ARE MATCHED WE CANNOT GET AN AFTER-MARKET REPLACEMENT SWITCH. FURTHER, THE PARTS ARE BACK ORDERED AT THE DEALER, BACK ORDERED AT VOLVO NORTH AMERICA, BACK ORDERED AT VOLVO IN SWEDEN, AND THEY CANNOT EVEN GET ME A DATE WHEN THE PART MIGHT BE AVAILABLE. AS AN RELIABILITY ENGINEER, THE IGNITION SWITCH FAILURE WOULD BE CLASSIFIED AS A CRITICALITY 1, SINGLE POINT FAILURE, IN OTHER WORDS IT RESULTS IN LOSS OF VEHICLE. THERE IS NO INDICATION OF PENDING FAILURE, AND NO WAY TO MITIGATE THE PROBLEM IF IT OCCURS. YOU ARE STRANDED WHERE EVER THE CAR WAS LAST PARKED. AND WORSE, IN THIS CONDITION THE CAR HAS NO RESALE VALUE, EXCEPT MAYBE AT A "CHOP SHOP", SO I CANNOT EVEN TRADE IT IN FOR A NEW CAR. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10496925
  5. Filed Jun 29, 2012Failure Jun 29, 201294,000 milesWest Henrietta, NYVehicle speed control

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLVO S40. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE SITTING AT A TRAFFIC STOP, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED ABNORMALLY. THE CONTACT HAD HIS FOOT ON THE BRAKE PEDAL AND THEN HAD TO SHIFT INTO NEUTRAL TO GET THE VEHICLE TO SLOW DOWN. THE CONTACT PULLED THE VEHICLE OVER, SHUT OFF AND TRIED TO RESTART THE ENGINE BUT IT FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER FOR INSPECTION BUT THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS UNKNOWN. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND THEY INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS FOR THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 94,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.

    NHTSA complaint 10463577
  6. Filed Dec 10, 2010Failure Dec 2, 201069,650 milesGrover Beach, CAAutomatic transmission

    MY 2003 VOLVO S40 HAS BEEN DRIVEN FEWER THAN 70,000 MILES. ALL VOLVO RECOMMENDED SERVICE HAS BEEN PERFORMED BY CERTIFIED MECHANICS AND IS DOCUMENTED. MY VOLVO DEALER DETERMINED THAT THE TRANSMISSION HAD TO BE REPLACED. IT IS NOT AT ALL REASONABLE TO HAVE A CATASTROPHIC TRANSMISSION FAILURE AT ONLY 70, 000 MILES. I FEEL VOLVO SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR AT LEAST THE COST OF THE REPLACEMENT TRANSMISSION. IN ADDITION TO THE COST AND INCONVENIENCE, THIS TRANSMISSION FAILURE PRESENTED A HAZARD THAT COULD HAVE RESULTED IN A SERIOUS ACCIDENT. MY VOLVO WAS BEING DRIVEN ON A FRONTAGE ROAD WITH THE INTENTION OF ENTERING A FREEWAY. WHEN THE TRANSMISSION STARTED TO SLIP, A RIGHT TURN WAS MADE FROM THE FRONTAGE ROAD TO A 4-LANE ROAD IN AN ATTEMPT TO AVOID HIGH SPEED TRAFFIC. THE TRANSMISSION WENT TO NEUTRAL DURING THE TURN AND THE VOLVO COASTED TO A STOP JUST PAST THE CORNER IN THE RIGHT LANE OF THIS BUSY ROAD. FORTUNATELY, A POLICE CAR WAS JUST A HUNDRED FEET AWAY, SAW THE VOLVO STOP IN THE TRAFFIC LANE AND PULLED IN BEHIND THE STOPPED VOLVO WITH LIGHTS FLASHING TO WARN ONCOMING TRAFFIC. ONLY THE PROXIMITY OF THE POLICE CAR AVOIDED BEING HIT FROM THE REAR BY VEHICLES TRAVELING IN THE LANE WHERE THE VOLVO STOPPED. THE POLICE CALLED FOR A TOW TRUCK. I HAVE DETERMINED THAT THIS TYPE OF TRANSMISSION FAILURE HAS BEEN REPORTED MANY TIMES BETWEEN 2003 AND THE PRESENT AND FEEL IT SHOULD BE CONSIDERED FOR A SAFETY RECALL. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10369952
  7. Filed Aug 9, 2010Failure Jul 2, 201085,106 milesWest Bloomfield, MICooling system, Engine, Fuel system, OtherFire

    I WAS DRIVING WHEN THE CAR START TO ACCELERATED BY ITSELF, ACCEL PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR. I COULD NOT KEEP A CAR EVEN BY THE HAND BRAKE, SO AS IT WAS JUMPING AHEAD. THEN THE CAR BEGAN TO BLOW BLACK AND WHITE SMOKE OUT UNDER THE HOOD. SOME HOW I TURN OFF THE ENGINE, TOOK THE KEY AND RUN AWAY FROM THE CAR IN THE MIDDLE OF THE TRAFFIC ROAD. GREEN LIQUID UNDER THE CAR. IT DIED ON THE ROAD. POLICE CAME, THE CAR TOWED. AFTER SEVERAL DAYS OF CHECKOUT : T/3.8 CHECKOUT AND REPLACED T-STAT, TEMP SENSOR, T-STAT HOUSING GASKET; BG COOLANT FLUSH ; PCV; ENGINE VENT; ENGINE MECHANICAL; BG POWER STEERING; BG BRAKE AFTER A WEEK I GOT THE SAME--JUMPING, NOT STABLE, ACCEL PEDAL GOES TO THE FLOOR. INTERNAL SHORT IN CYL 3 AND 2 COIL AND FOULED SPARKPLUGS T/1.5 REPLACED COIL PACK FOR CYL 3 AND 2 AND REPLACED SPARKPLUGS. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10348314
  8. Filed Mar 9, 2010Failure Feb 12, 2010Cumberland, RITires

    INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6) ON FEB 12, I HAD A PERIODIC MAINTENANCE DONE AT THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY ADVISED ME THAT MY TIRES WERE BAD. I HAD ONLY HAD THE TIRES A SHORT WHILE SO I BROUGHT THE CAR TO WHERE I BOUGHT THEM (SEARS) AND WAS ADVISED THAT THE TREAD WAS GOOD BUT THERE WAS ROT BETWEEN THE TREAD. THE TIRES ARE BF GOODRICH TRACTION T/A TIRES (MY MODEL P21550V16) AND WERE SOLD NATIONWIDE BY SEARS. BF GOODRICH DID GIVE ME A 45% CREDIT BUT I FEEL THESE TIRES ARE DANGEROUS SINCE I WAS TOLD THEY COULD SHRED AT ANY TIME (SOUNDED LIKE FIRESTONE ALL OVER AGAIN). BF GOODRICH NO LONGER MAKES TRACTION T/A TIRES BUT SINCE THE TIRES ARE 60,000 MILE TIRES AND I ONLY GOT 35,000 ON THEM AND HAD THEM LESS THAN 3 YEARS I THOUGHT YOUR AGENCY SHOULD INVESTIGATE FOR A POSSIBLE RECALL. MANY PEOPLE COULD BE DRIVING AROUND ON THEM WITHOUT KNOWING HOW DANGEROUS AND HAZARDOUS THEY ARE. I INITIALLY SENT A LETTER TO YOUR AGENCY USING THE ADDRESS FROM THE WEBSITE BUT IT CAME BACK AS NOT ENOUGH INFORMATION PROVIDED. I HOPE THIS EMAIL WILL BE AS EFFECTIVE. THE TIRES WERE NOT CHEAP TIRES AND THEY WERE PROPERLY INFLATED AND ROTATED SO I NEVER THOUGHT THEY WOULD LAST SUCH A SHORT TIME (I PURCHASED THEM ON 4/22/07). I EXPECT OTHER PEOPLE WILL FEEL THE SAME AND MAY NOT BE AS LUCKY AS ME TO FIND OUT THAT THESE TIRES ARE BAD AND EXTREMELY DANGEROUS. I HAVE ALSO SENT THIS INFORMATION TO THE RI ATTORNEY GENERAL'S OFFICE. ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION THAT YOU REQUIRE MAY BE OBTAINED BY CALLING MY CELL AT [XXX] *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10317937
  9. Filed Mar 19, 2007Failure Mar 1, 200748,000 milesRichfield, MNControl module (tcm/pcm/tecm)

    MY 2003 S40 HAS BEEN SLIPPING GEAR BETWEEN 3RD AND 4TH GEAR AND OCASSIONAL HARD SHIFT BETWEEN 2ND AND 3RD GEAR. THE CAR ONLY HAS 49000 MILES. I HAVE GONE TO THE DEALER AND THEY SAID, THERE IS NO SOFTWARE UPDATE FOR THE TCM (TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE)AND IT NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. COST $800. THIS GEAR SLIP MAKES DRIVING VERY BOTHERSOME AND DANGEROUS ON OCCASION. IF YOU NEED TO SPEED UP TO GET OUT OF THE WAY, THE SLIP CAUSES THE CAR TO LOSE POWER. FEW SECONDS MAKES A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LIFE AND DEATH. I HAVE TAKEN THE CAR TO ANOTHER IMPORT REPAIR SHOP AND HAD THEM REPLACE THE TCM. WHICH DID NOT HELP THE ISSUE. THEN I TOOK THE CAR BACK TO THE DEALER AND ASKED TO DO ANOTHER DIAGNOSTIC TO SEE IF THE TCM IS THE ISSUE OR NOT. THEY SAID, THE TCM COULD NOT BE FUNCTIONING PROPERLY. THEY WANT ME TO REPLACE THE TCM THROUGH THEM AND SEE IF IT WILL RESOLVE THE PROBLEM, OTHERWISE IT WILL BE A TRANSMISSION ISSUE. I HAVE RESEARCHED ON THE WEB AND THROUGH MULTIPLE FORUMS, THERE HAVE HUNDREDS OF ISSUES RELATED TO TCM AND TRANSMISSION ON THESE MODELS. I DO NOT UNDERSTAND HOW CAN A CAR HAVE TCM OR TRANSMISSION ISSUE WITH ALL IT'S FACTORY RECOMMENDED SERVICE DONE AS SCHEDULED.

    NHTSA complaint 10185527
  10. Filed Dec 11, 2006Failure Dec 9, 2006Huntsville, TXInstrument cluster/panel

    GOT A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON AND TRIED TO GET A FULL DIAGNOSTIC TEST DONE, BUT THE POWER CONTROL MODULE WAS NOT COMMUNICATING WITH VEHICLE. *JB

    NHTSA complaint 10175880
  11. Filed Jun 21, 2005Failure Dec 10, 2004Woburn, MAAutomatic transmission

    TRANSMISSION SLIPS BETWEEN GEARS 2ND AND 3RD

    NHTSA complaint 10126023
  12. Filed Apr 23, 2004Failure Apr 22, 2004Long Island City, NYFuel system, Fuel rail

    CONSUMER STATED THAT BANRIDGE VOLVO WILL NOT HONOR THE RECALL DEALING WITH THE FUEL RAIL. CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALERSHIP ON 04/22/2004. *AK

    NHTSA complaint 10071409
  13. Filed Apr 9, 2004Failure May 10, 2003Burr Ridge, ILLines and fittings

    THE FOLLOWING IS A SYNOPSIS OF ORIGINAL E-MAIL I SENT TO VOLVO CARS OF NORTH AMERICA FOR YOUR RECORDS. *AK ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I FINALLY HAD MY 2003 VOLVO S40 SERVICED FOR EXCESSIVE BUMPY RIDE PROBLEM THAT IVE COMPLAINED ABOUT SINCE THE TIME I BOUGHT IT FROM HOWARD ORLOFF IN MAY 2003. IM APPALLED TO LEARN THAT FOLKS AT HOWARD ORLOFF LEFT THE SPRING SPACERS IN PLACE ALONG THE FRONT SUSPENSION WHEN THEY SOLD ME THE CAR; AND AFTER SEVERAL COMPLAINS (OF WHICH YOU FOLKS HAVE ALL THE RECORDS OF MY E-MAIL COMMUNICATIONS) AND TEN MONTHS, VOLVO OF LISLE FINALLY FIGURED THE ISSUE OUT. I DONT KNOW WHAT KIND OF DAMAGE THIS MAY HAVE CAUSED TO MY CAR FOR ALL THESE MANY MONTHS. AS OF WRITING THIS MESSAGE, MY CAR IS DANGEROUS AND PRECARIOUS MORE THAN EVER. AFTER ALMOST LITTLE OVER A WEEK OF DRIVING SINCE I GOT MY CAR BACK, THE CARS RIDE IS WORST THAN EVER; THE STEERING WHEEL HAS BECOME EXTREMELY SENSITIVE AND DOES NOT AFFORD CONTROL OF THE CAR; QUITE OFTEN DASHBOARD ICONS FLASH AS I HIT EVEN THE SLIGHTEST BUMP ON THE ROAD; THE REAR RIGHT WHEEL SEEMS TO GET AIRBORNE WHILE THE LEFT FRONT END STAYS DIPPED INTO THE PAVEMENT. BEFORE VOLVO OF LISLE ADDRESSED THE SPRING SPACER PROBLEM, THE CD-PLAYER KEPT SKIPPING THE TRACK INCLUDING THE TUNER MODE CHANGED FROM CD TO TAPE OR AM/FM MODE 3 OR 4 TIMES SOLELY DUE TO THE CAR HITTING A BUMP WHILE DRIVING. AT THIS RATE, IM AFRAID IT IS GOING TO CAUSE MORE DAMAGE TO TIRES, WHEEL RIMS, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE AND OTHER INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR COMPONENTS OF MY CAR. IM DEFINITELY CONCERNED AND EVEN SCARED ABOUT THE SAFETY OF MY FAMILY AND MYSELF ALONG WITH OTHERS ON THE ROAD WHEN DRIVING THIS CAR. IN LIGHT OF THE SAME RECURRING PROBLEM, VOLVO SHOULD REPLACE MY CAR WITH A NEW ONE AT NO EXTRA COST TO ME. I LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU BY MONDAY, APRIL 12, 2004 OR SOONER.

    NHTSA complaint 10065869
  14. Filed Feb 9, 2004Failure Feb 9, 2004West Orange, NJLabels

    CONSUMER INDICATED THAT THE ISOFIX GUIDE THAT THE MANUFACTURER SENT FOR RECALL 03V284000 COULD NOT FIX THE PROBLEM. *AK

    NHTSA complaint 10057746
  15. Filed Jan 5, 2004Failure Dec 12, 2003Saddle Brook, NJTires

    TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:I WOULD LIKE TO REPORT A COMPLAINT THAT ONE OF THE MICHELIN TIRES ON MY NEW VOLVO S40 (BOUGHT ON JAN 25, 2003: [XXX]) BLEW OUT WHILE I WAS DRIVING TO WORK. FORTUNATELY, I WAS NOT IN AN ACCIDENT AS I WAS DRIVING AT ABOUT 25MPH. ON THE SAME DAY FRIDAY (DEC 12, 03) I CONTACTED THE VOLVO DEALER WITH A REQUEST TO FIX THIS PROBLEM. THEY REFUSED TO EVALUATE THE TIRE AND ONLY TOLD ME TO CALL MICHELIN. ON DEC 15, 03, I CALLED MICHELIN AND WAS TOLD THAT VALLEY FORGE TIRE AND AUTO CENTER WAS THE CLOSEST CERTIFIED MICHELIN DEALER IN MY AREA. I MADE AN APPOINTMENT WITH THEM AND WENT THAT DAY. THEIR REPRESENTATIVE TOLD ME THAT THIS TIRE WAS NOT FAULTY, AND COULD NOT BE COVERED UNDER WARRANTY. I HAD TO REPLACE THE TIRE ANYWAY BECAUSE I WAS GOING TO EUROPE, AND I NEEDED THE CAR TO GET TO THE AIRPORT IN NEW JERSEY. (I WAS IN PENNSYLVANIA AT THAT TIME) AFTER I RETURNED FROM MY VACATION, I CONTACTED AN EXPERT AND WAS TOLD THAT THE BLOWOUT WAS THE FAULT OF THE MANUFACTURER BECAUSE: 1. ON THE INSIDE LAYER OF THE TIRE THE RUBBER WAS PEELING (THE RUBBER WAS COMING OFF OF THE TIRES LIKE SCALES) 2. IN ANOTHER PLACE ALSO ON THE INSIDE OF THE TIRE THE WHITE THREADS THAT MAKE UP THE TIRE UNDER THE RUBBER WERE SHOWING, I WAS TOLD THAT THE TIRE WOULD HAVE BLOWN OUT IN THIS POINT IF NOT IN THE OTHER. IN THIS SITUATION I WOULD LIKE TO REPLACE ALL FOUR OF MY TIRES THIS WEEK TO GOODYEAR. PLEASE ADVISE ME HOW YOU PLAN TO DEAL WITH THIS SITUATION. I BOUGHT A NEW CAR AND SPECIFICALLY THE VOLVO BECAUSE I WAS PLANNING TO DO A LOT OF DRIVING THIS YEAR AND NEEDED A SAFE AND RELIABLE CAR. I TRUSTED VOLVOS REPUTATION FOR SAFETY AND RELIABILITY, BUT NOW I AM VERY DISAPPOINTED. [XXX]. *AK UPDATED 07/30/2012 *JS INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

    NHTSA complaint 10052437
  16. Filed Aug 13, 2003Failure Jul 19, 2003Vashon Island, WAFuel system, Fuel rail

    2002 VOLVO S40 EXPERIENCED MECHANICAL FAILURE OF THE ENGINE FUEL LINE. *MR *CB

    NHTSA complaint 10033856
  17. Filed Jul 15, 2003Failure Jun 27, 20034,500 milesDallas, TXAutomatic transmission

    I AM CURRENTLY DRIVING A 2003 VOLVO S40. IT HAS BEEN EXPERIENCING A TRANSMISSION SLIP BETWEEN 2ND AND 3RD GEARS. I HAD TAKEN THE CAR BACK TO THE DEALER FOR TWO TIMES DUE TO THE ABOVE PROBLEM. THE ONLY THING THEY DID WAS UPGRADING THE PROGRAM, WHICH IT DID NOT HELP AT ALL. THE MAJOR PROBLEM IS I ALMOST GOT IN A MAJOR ACCIDENT ON 6/27/2003 WHILE I WAS MAKING A LEFT TURN AND THE CAR LOST POWER IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD. THE ON COMING TRAFFIC BARELY MISSED RUNNING INTO MY VOLVO. THIS TRANSMISSION SLIPPING USUALLY LAST FOR 2 TO 3 SECS AND THIS LOST OF POWER CAN PUT ME INTO MAJOR ACCIDENT EASILY. I ASKED VOLVO TO TAKE MY CAR BACK, BUT THEY SAID THEY COULD NOT REPRODUCE THE PROBLEM WHILE THE CAR WAS IN THE SHOP, THE TURTH IS, THE PROBLEM DOES NOT HAPPEN EVERYDAY. I AM EXTREMLY MAD THAT VOLVO DOES NOT CARE ABOUT THE LIFES OF THEIR CUSTOMERS. IN FACT, THIS IS A KNOW PROBLEM EVEN VOLVO HAS A TECH NOTE FOR THIS. BUT I GUESS AS LONG AS THEY CANNOT REPRODUCE THE PROBLEM, THEY DONT CARE EVEN WE ARE TAKING ABOUT POTENTIAL MAJOR ACCIDENTS HERE. PLEASE HELP. THANKS.*AK

    NHTSA complaint 10026090
  18. Filed May 4, 2003Failure May 1, 20037,000 milesCorinth, TXAutomatic transmission

    TRANSMISSION SLIPS FROM 2ND TO 3RD FROM TIME TO TIME. ADDITIONALLY, THE CAR SHIFTS HARSHLY FROM 3RD TO 2ND GEAR. *JB

    NHTSA complaint 10016992
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations

NHTSA has not opened an investigation on this model year

Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
Service bulletins

161 manufacturer communications cover this model year

Technical service bulletins and other notices the manufacturer sent to dealers. A bulletin is not a recall; the 60 most recent are listed.

  • 35526.1.8 Apr 23, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: Text plus 2 PDFs and 1 .PNG Oil Consumption test. Perform the test. Follow service procedure
 Description and Service sections updated to clarify that vehicle reports are not required.
  • 37809.1.1 Apr 7, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a TJ text only - The purpose of this TJ is to be a master reference list to easily identify any components that are on prior approval. This TJ will be regularily updated as items are added or removed from prior approval.
 Current items under pri…
  • 19245 Dec 6, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal. Vehicle type and platform identification.
  • 8501 Apr 10, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: Remote connection, BOMGAR application. Before joining a remote session:
 •Connect a suitable battery maintainer/charger and verify that the battery voltage indicated in VIDA is between 12.5V and 14.9V.
 •Connect to the v…
  • S10303 Feb 21, 2025 · Service Campaign
    Volvo Cars USA LLC and Volvo Car Canada LTD on behalf of the Volvo Car Corporation has decided to launch Service Action S10303 on certain model year 2025 EX90 vehicles.
 Volvo Car Investigations have identified that there is a pairing issue with the key…
  • S10303 Feb 13, 2025 · Service Campaign
    Volvo Cars USA LLC and Volvo Car Canada LTD on behalf of the Volvo Car Corporation has decided to launch Service Action S10303 on certain model year 2025 EX90 vehicles.
 Volvo Car Investigations have identified that there is a pairing issue with the key…
  • 37175 Jan 16, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: Vehicle/Connectivity report checklist. To provide timely and high-quality feedback to the appropriate department or factory
  • 8501 Jan 16, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: Remote connection, BOMGAR application. Before joining a remote session:
 •Connect a suitable battery maintainer/charger and verify that the battery voltage indicated in VIDA is between 12.5V and 14.9V.
 •Connect to the v…
  • TJ27536.21.1-2024-08-07 Aug 14, 2024 · Other
    Information about valid Software partnumbers to order and download Software for "PDS" Pre-Delivery Service
  • 26745.13.14 Jan 12, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: 12V Battery Testing Method
  • C00009 Jul 21, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    COMPLIMENTARY UPGRADE C00009 DESCRIPTION.
  • TJ3656330 Jun 12, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Rubber cushion
  • CBR-2201 Aug 29, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Engine Control Module (EMS) Software (MSW) Information – August 2022; Improvement List (Change Log) - US21+OBD22 (13L VGT, TC) And US17+OBD22 (11L) Emissions
  • Special Tools Bu May 12, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    The Deutronic DBL-1200 is an advanced battery maintainer/charger with the flexibility to be updated as products and repair methods evolve.
  • Service Manager May 6, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    ICUP/Google Built-In Diagnostic Operations
  • Service Manager Jun 23, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Battery Charger/maintainer requirement
  • Service Manager Feb 3, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Shipping and Handling of Volvo Lithium-ion 48V Mild Hybrid Battery to Global Battery Solutions (GBS)
  • 356EN01 Feb 9, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    VIDA QR Scanner Mobile App
  • SMB00-288-2021-0 Feb 19, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Volvo?s Warranty Department tracks Retailer warranty spending by utilizing the Warranty Retailer Counseling Process (WRCP). The WRCP is used to gauge individual retailer performance on objective measures over time. By setting clear performance expectations …
  • ST-001-2020-09-1 Sep 18, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Mandatory Tool List bulletin: Volvo mandatory Special Tools are necessary for technicians to properly diagnose and repair Volvo cars. They are used in development of Volvo labor operations and repair methods, and promote safety and quality repairs in a time…
  • SMB00-006-2020-0 Aug 5, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Service Manager Bulletin: Service 2.0 Software & Total Upgrade Reminder
  • SMB31-001-2020-0 Jul 3, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Service Manager Bulletin: Volvo Lithium-ion Hybrid Battery Packs shipping and handling to Volvo Reman
  • SMB31-001-2020-0 Jul 14, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Service Manager Bulletin: Volvo Lithium-ion Hybrid Battery Packs shipping and handling to Volvo Reman
  • ST-001-2020-06-2 Jul 2, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Mandatory Tool List bulletin: Volvo mandatory Special Tools are necessary for technicians to properly diagnose and repair Volvo cars. They are used in development of Volvo labor operations and repair methods, and promote safety and quality repairs in a time…
  • SMB00-013-2020-0 Jun 17, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Service Manager Bulletin: Vehicle Type and Platform Information
  • SMB00-006-2020-0 Mar 31, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Service Manager Bulletin: Service 2.0 Software & Total Upgrade Reminder
  • ST-001-2020-01-2 Jan 30, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Mandatory Tool List bulletin: Volvo mandatory Special Tools are necessary for technicians to properly diagnose and repair Volvo cars. They are used in development of Volvo labor operations and repair methods, and promote safety and quality repairs in a time…
  • SMB00-325-2019-1 Dec 1, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Service Manager Bulletin TITLE : Service Action Notification Re - Mails GROUP : NO : ISSUING DEPARTMENT : CAR MARKET : Product Safety & Compliance United States and Canada 00 325 REFERENCE BULLETINS : DATE : SMB00 - 323 and SMB00 - 323A YEAR MONTH DAY SERVI…
  • TJ31946.1.2-2019 Nov 19, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: Swapping control modules from vehicle to vehicle for diagnostics should be avoided. Swapping control modules may result in consequential damage to the swapped control module and in certain cases several other control modules in …
  • TJ31946.1.1-2019 Nov 14, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: Swapping control modules from vehicle to vehicle for diagnostics should be avoided. Swapping control modules may result in consequential damage to the swapped control module and in certain cases several other control modules in …
  • SMB00-006-2019-1 Nov 9, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Software Installation Policy changes.
  • SMB00-438-2019-1 Nov 9, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Service Manager Bulletin: Technician Skillset Requirments
  • TJ31543.9.0-2019 Nov 6, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: This Journal is a guide for performing Software Downloads. Service: *See guide updated Oct. 12, 2016 for relevant P5/SPA Software Download information: P5_SPA_SW_Guide.pdf See VIDA Software tab for all other vehicles.The attache…
  • ST-001-2019-10-1 Oct 17, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Mandatory Tool List bulletin: Volvo mandatory Special Tools are necessary for technicians to properly diagnose and repair Volvo cars. They are used in development of Volvo labor operations and repair methods, and promote safety and quality repairs in a time…
  • TJ21965.7.0-2019 Oct 16, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: Oil in cooling system. New cleaning method developed.
  • SMB00-325-2017-1 Oct 18, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Service Manager Bulletin TITLE : Service Action Notification Re - Mails GROUP : NO : ISSUING DEPARTMENT : CAR MARKET : Product Safety & Compliance United States and Canada 00 325 REFERENCE BULLETINS : DATE : SMB00 - 323 and SMB00 - 323A YEAR MONTH DAY SERVI…
  • SMB00-337-2016-1 Nov 29, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    VOLVO CARS SERVICE AND PARTS BUSINESS Service Manager Bulletin TITLE : Workshop Systems Requirements and Guidelines VIDA in 2015 , Peer - to - Peer Infrastructure GROUP : NO : ISSUING DEPARTMENT : CAR MARKET : United States and Canada 00 337 REFERENCE BULLE…
  • SMB00-006-2017-0 May 11, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Software Installation Policy changes.
  • SMB00-071-2017-0 May 10, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Descripition of Goodwill Policy and Guidelines.
  • ST-160-2017-02-2 Mar 3, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Dice Tool bulletin explaining the offer.
  • SPJ32587.2.0-201 Apr 13, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Service Product Journal: VIDA will not support Windows 8.1 after June 30th 2017
  • TJ31543.4.3-2017 Feb 24, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: This Journal is a guide for performing Software Downloads. Service: *See guide updated Oct. 12, 2016 for relevant P5/SPA Software Download information: P5_SPA_SW_Guide.pdf See VIDA Software tab for all other vehicles.The attache…
  • TJ20402.3.4-2017 Feb 15, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Technical Journal TITLE : The Error Frame Finder (EFF) can be an aid in fault tracing intermittent CAN network problems by providing a visible indication of error frames that are being transmitted on the network when the fault becomes active. The advantage …
  • SMB00-003-2017-0 Feb 3, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Service Manager Bulletin: Service Scheduling system enhancements. Improving Service Action/Recall scheduling.
  • SMB00-199-2017-0 Jan 14, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Service Manager Bulletin: The online bookstore, www.volvotechinfo.com, serves Volvo Retailers, employees, Independent Repairers and customers throughout the United States and Canada by providing easy order-access to service, parts and owners? lite…
  • ST-001-2017-02-2 Mar 3, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Mandatory Special Tool List
  • PB77-006-2017-01 Jan 28, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Winter Wheel Applications including rim sizes, steel wheel parts numbers and wheel cover part numbers
  • PB77-017-2016-12 Dec 3, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Parts Bulletin: Wheel Cross Reference, used to assist in identifying the correct spare replacement wheel, by stamping, name and size.
  • TJ28941.1.0-2016 Dec 3, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: When sensitive information, like vehicle speed, brake usage, etc. (customer behavoiur information) of a car is required from Volvo Car Corporation from external sources, either of these two documents should be filled in and atta…
  • PB77-017-2016-12 Dec 9, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Parts Bulletin: Wheel Cross Reference, used to assist in identifying the correct spare replacement wheel, by stamping, name and size.
  • SMB00-424-2016-1 Dec 8, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    While performing repairs, on vehicles covered by Volvo's New Vehicle Warranty, the Technical Help Desk may support the dealer by providing a specific diagnostic labor operation. This will aid the Warranty Administrator when claiming reimbursement for diagno…
  • PB77-017-2016-12 Dec 21, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Parts Bulletin: Wheel Cross Reference, used to assist in identifying the correct spare replacement wheel, by stamping, name and size.
  • TJ25153.7.1-2016 Dec 15, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: Washer system layout for identifying leakage points REF NO : ISSUING DEPARTMENT : CAR MARKET : United States and Canada TJ 25153 Technical Service PARTNER : ISSUE DATE : STATUS DATE : 3 US 7510 Volvo Car USA 2016 - 03 - 17 2016 …
  • SMB00-287-2016-1 Jan 4, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Please use attached file to create new version of bulletin. Please remove original bulletin by same number dated 2/18/2010.
  • TJ25153.7.2-2017 Mar 22, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: Washer system layout for identifying leakage points REF NO : ISSUING DEPARTMENT : CAR MARKET : United States and Canada TJ 25153 Technical Service PARTNER : ISSUE DATE : STATUS DATE : 3 US 7510 Volvo Car USA 2016 - 03 - 17 2016 …
  • SMB00-342-2017-0 Mar 18, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    VOLVO CARS SERVICE AND PARTS BUSINESS Service Manager Bulletin TITLE : The Volvo Replacement Part Lifetime Warranty GROUP : NO : ISSUING DEPARTMENT : CAR MARKET : Warranty United States 00 342 REFERENCE BULLETINS : DATE : YEAR MONTH DAY SERVICE SERVICE WARR…
  • SMB00-342C-2017- Mar 18, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    VOLVO CARS SERVICE AND PARTS BUSINESS Service Manager Bulletin TITLE : Volvo Lifetime Replacement Parts & Labour Warranty GROUP : NO : ISSUING DEPARTMENT : CAR MARKET : Warranty Canada 00 342C REFERENCE BULLETINS : DATE : YEAR MONTH DAY SERVICE SERVICE WARR…
  • TJ19245.1.10-201 Mar 18, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    VOLVO CARS SERVICE AND PARTS BUSINESS Technical Journal TITLE : Vehicle type and platform identification REF NO : ISSUING DEPARTMENT : CAR MARKET : United States and Canada TJ 19245 Technical Service PARTNER : ISSUE DATE : 3 US 7510 Volvo Cars North America…
  • ST-111A-2017-02- Feb 28, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    MIDTRONICS PSC-550S and PSC-700 VEHICLE POWER SUPPLY information
  • SMB00 438 2019-0 Aug 23, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Service Manager Bulletin: Technician Skillset Requirments
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.