Volvo V40 years to avoid VOLVO V40 Hatchback (525, 526) (03.2012 - ...)

It is best to avoid Volvo V40s built between 2012 and 2015. These models, especially in the early years, have had issues with coolant leaks, which in rare cases could lead to engine fires. Also worth looking out for are possible brake issues (a humming noise when the pedal is pressed) and starting problems related to the bleeder valve.

More details on the issues:
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*Coolant leak:*
Between February 6, 2012 and April 21, 2015, some V40 models were reported to have coolant leaks, especially when warming up, which in extreme cases could lead to engine fires.

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*Brake issues:*
Many Volvo V40 owners have reported a humming noise from the front brakes when the pedal is pressed.

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*Starting Problems:*
Some starting problems may be due to a broken exhaust valve spring.

Shopping Tips:
* If you are considering a used Volvo V40, it is best to avoid models from 2012-2015.
* If you do not want to take risks, it is worth considering models from later years.
* When buying any used car, be sure to conduct a thorough inspection and diagnostics, paying special attention to the above problem areas.

When considering a Volvo V40, it's wise to be cautious about specific model years and known issues:

Years to Be Wary Of
- 2013 to 2016 models have been subject to several recalls and common problems:
- 2013-2014: Software faults causing the nearside rear tail light to fail.
- 2013-2018: Plastic inlet manifold prone to melting, leading to a recall of nearly 70,000 cars.
- 2015-2016: Cracking rubber fuel hoses that could cause fuel leaks.
- 2016: Airbag recalls due to potential failure to deploy correctly in accidents.
- 2012-2015 models have had issues with coolant leaks during warm-up, which in extreme cases could lead to engine fires.
- Early V40s with the five-cylinder T5 petrol engine (pre-2015) tend to have higher CO2 emissions and potentially higher running costs but are not necessarily less reliable.

Common Problems Across These Years
- Potential for engine fires linked to diesel engines, with ongoing recalls but no definitive fix yet.
- Electrical issues such as faulty door locks causing doors not to close properly or false door open warnings.
- Noisy front brakes and broken exhaust valve springs causing starting problems and rough idling.
- Cabin leaks causing musty smells.
- Some transmission issues, particularly with the M76 manual gearbox, such as difficulty engaging fifth gear and clutch pedal problems.

Rust and Reliability
- The V40 has been reported to suffer from rust issues due to less rust protection compared to other Volvos of the same era.
- Despite these issues, the V40 generally scores well in reliability surveys and is considered a dependable family car if well maintained.

Summary Advice
- Avoid 2013-2016 models unless all recalls and repairs have been thoroughly addressed.
- Check with a Volvo dealer to confirm recall status and remedial work, especially for airbags, fuel hoses, and inlet manifold issues.
- Inspect carefully for signs of rust and verify the car’s maintenance and service history.

- Consider later models post-2016 for improved reliability and fewer known issues.

In essence, steer clear of early to mid-2010s V40s with unresolved recalls and known faults, and prioritize well-maintained examples with documented recall repairs for a more reliable ownership experience.