2001 Volvo S40 from North America - Comments

I guess I'm somewhere in-between on the "buy/don't buy" camps. My 2001 Volvo S40 has the check engine light on continuously now, indicating the "primary" oxygen sensor (bank 2). I did have it replaced, but the check engine is still there, indicating the O2 sensor still. I had an exhaust system check done... no leaks, spark plugs are fine, O2 sensor is working. The light is still on though.

This started with mine sometime around the 135,000 mile point. It was intermittent for awhile, but now it stays in. My car has 156,000 miles on it and its still running fine, so I don't have a major issue with it. I just wish someone could figure out the root cause of this check engine light, so it would clear and I could spot a real problem early whenever it happens.

Tom in GA

I bought a 2001 S40 brand new in 2001, so I've been the only owner. The Check Engine Light comes on all the time. I probably spent as much as the car was purchased for in service fees. I like the look of the car and I feel safe in the car, but I don't think I will purchase another Volvo because it is so unreliable and expensive to maintain. I cross my fingers each time I turn the car on. It is a good day when the orange "check engine" light is not on! There is nothing more frustrating than driving it off the lot after paying over $1,000 for a service bill to find the light comes back on 100 miles later. I think the dealership just resets the light or replaces something that doesn't need fixed to appease me. Has anyone pursued legal recourse for the check engine light problem?

I love my 2001 S40. Bought it used with 36k and now just around 106k. No problems other than the catalytic converter (at 92k), but Volvo just sent out a letter saying they'll reimburse for the cost of replacing it if it was done within 100k and less than 10 years from original purchase.

Make sure you have a good Volvo shop. I say ditch the dealerships (who have always ripped me off) and find a good Volvo specialty shop. Dealership employees work off of commissions so they are less inclined to take the time to properly repair. The shop I go to has salaried employees and they are amazingly thorough and ultimately cheaper than the dealership.

Love the car and will probably always buy Volvos.

I have a 2001 Volvo V40 it was second hand at 100000 km and has been awesome. The only problem I have had is the immobilizer not working. The key seems to be the problem. Thankfully I had a spare one. Love my Volvo as it is so safe for me and my family.

South Africa.