Faults:

I had a headlight bulb, shift indicator light bulb, and tail tight bulb replaced over the last 4 yrs. I just replaced the O-ring on the turbo oil drain line. $2.50 for the parts, and a few hours of fighting in tight quarters. Turns out this is a common problem. The parts guy at the dealer didn't even have to look up the part numbers.

I had to replace the rear brakes before the fronts. First time I have ever seen this on any car? Still, it was at 40,000 miles. This is not a problem, just strange.

General Comments:

As you can see from the above repairs, this car is virtually trouble free. This is by far the best car I have ever owned.

I am writing this review because I am looking at other reviews on a replacement to my S40. The reviews were awful, so I thought I would see what people said about a car I think is fabulous. I was just wondering if people only write bad reviews.

Faults:

Back in January 2006, the check engine light came on and it was starting rough. Service told me it was a problem with engine thermostat. $200.

One day later, light came back on and still had starting trouble. Took it back to Volvo three weeks later (next available loaner). This time I was told it was the camshaft reset valve. $150.

One day later light came back on and still had starting trouble. Is back in shop as we speak.

General Comments:

Other than this constant repair issue, I love the car. Handles well, good on gas, excellent driving car.

Faults:

While it's only been 3 months, I haven't had any problems with the car. I just put new tires on there. The service light recently popped on, so I'll be taking it in for some type of advanced/basic service at a local Volvo dealer.

General Comments:

- The car handles really well, especially on turns.

- Because of the turbo, it's got a quick pick pick up. Better for me to clear yellow lights! I love turbo!!

- I love the heated seats. They heat up quickly.

- I find the heat takes a little while to get hot.

- I wish there were rear wipers.

- My car is midnight blue and I haven't had any paint issues.

Faults:

Almost nothing.

The paint may not be holding up too well. At five yrs it does not look as good as new even when detailed. I believe it is partly Texas sun, (and little garage time, it sits out most of the time) and the fact it is clear coated (like most of todays cars) so one cannot really get at the oxidation with a rubout. (non metallic red BTW.)

Radio replaced under warranty with no fuss at 20k.

I can't even remember anything big enough to,well, remember! Oh yes. It burns out light bulbs a lot. But get this, initially I bought them at the dealer parts counter, then the guy told me they were covered, at least up to 36k. The dealer replace EVERY REAR BULB IF ONE BURNED OUT, OR BOTH HEADLIGHTS IF ONE BURNED OUT. FOR FREE! YES, you read correctly. Funny, haven't had a problem with a bulb in over a yr.

General Comments:

This car is my daughter's, a present for her 16'th birthday and I have to say it is the best present I ever gave anyone. It has never failed her once and she adores it. We actually give it dealer service, which is something I thought I would never do, as I have restored/owned about 10 older BMW's many yrs ago. But the dealer has been great (Autobahn in fort worth TX.) and the car is loved by everyone.

Turbo four has some lag, but is very quick, and it is a blast to drive. her college senior and HS junior brothers love it and love driving it. I used to drive BMWs and I love. Everyone agrees it is more fun than her mother's S80 of the same year.

It is a little tight inside, but you can judge that for yourself before buying one.

Has minimal front suspension travel.

Funky radio controls, but one becomes used to them.

BTW, the newer version improved on roominess and front suspension travel

Also, did I mention fabulous gas mileage? Like in the thirties on the highway, upper twenties in town!