1999 Volvo S40 SE review from Australia and New Zealand
"Costly maintenance. But goes like a little rocket"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
At 80,000Km required an engine mount to be replaced (Au$300), due to wearing of rubber. Apparently this occurs every 40,000Km or so.
Sunroof had some squeaking, fixed with Snow White Jelly.
Car becomes noisy and air gets through doors seals at speeds greater than 140Km/h. Also windscreen wipers begin to lift.
Having problems with clutch and transmission on cold mormings (10'C or less).
Passenger side front window cost Au$600. Obscenely costly.
When starting car 'Brake light failing' warning light comes and remains on until you use the brake.
Noisy on roads.
General comments?
It does handle well and the interior is excellent.
Very quick car.
Plenty of boot room and rear seats can fold to create more room.
Maintenance is very costly as written above.
Very economical on oil and fuel. 100km to 5L and I haven't had to top my oil up. Although I get the oil and filter changed every 20,000Km due to dusty roads I drive on.
The engine mount problem above drove me insane. It caused vibration through the entire car and took 4 trips to the mechanic to fix.
Recommended Reviews:
  | Best car driven in over 52 years of motoring! |
  | A decent family sedan, but don't expect a sports sedan |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 75000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 90000 kilometres |
| Date of Entry | 17th May, 2004 |