Discontinued premium hatch with record safety scores
The Volvo V40 (2012-2019) sits in the premium small hatchback class against the BMW 1 Series and Audi A3. Discontinuation means strong depreciation, which is excellent news for used buyers who get premium build quality, record Euro NCAP scores and a sophisticated interior at second-hand prices well below German rivals. Mechanically related to the Ford Focus, it drives well, though the 335-litre boot is modest.
We track 5 known issues across the Volvo V40 range, including 2 rated as safety-critical. Knowing which variants and configurations to approach with caution can save you from expensive surprises after purchase.
Found a Volvo V40? Enter the reg to see which of our 5 known issues apply to that exact car, plus full MOT history and mileage checks.
V40-1 (1996–2004) — Petrol options included the 1.6 16V, 1.6 8V, 1.7, 1.8, 1.8 GDI, 2.0, with 1.9 TD on the diesel side. Our database flags 3 known issues on this generation, 1 of which are rated as safety-critical. The most significant concern is Brake hose deterioration (£100–£200 to address).
V40-2 (2012–2019) — Petrol options included the T2 1.5, 1.6, T3/T4/T5 2.0, T5 2.5, with D2 1.6, D2 1.6, D3/D4 2.0, D3/D4 2.0 on the diesel side. Our database flags 2 known issues on this generation, 1 of which are rated as safety-critical. The most significant concern is Coil spring fracture (£200–£350 to address).
The second-generation V40 suffers from premature coil spring fractures, particularly affecting the rear springs. MOT data shows this model fails at 14.5 times the national fleet average for spring fractures, with failures occurring even on low-mileage examples. The fractures typically occur at the end coils where stress concentrates, and can happen without warning. This is a widespread issue across multiple engine variants and represents a significant safety defect that can cause sudden loss of vehicle control.
A fractured coil spring can cause sudden changes in vehicle handling, uneven tyre wear, and in severe cases can puncture a tyre or damage brake lines. The broken spring end can also damage the shock absorber or other suspension components. Immediate replacement is required as the vehicle is unsafe to drive with a broken spring.
Listen for knocking, clunking or rattling over bumps during the test drive. Inspect the underside for corroded or cracked suspension components. Check the MOT history for suspension-related advisories, which often predict future failures.
First-generation V40 models suffer from premature brake hose deterioration, with MOT failures at up to 24.3 times the national fleet average. The flexible brake hoses connecting the brake lines to the wheels are particularly susceptible to cracking, bulging, and internal deterioration with age. This is a critical safety issue as brake hose failure can cause complete loss of braking ability on the affected wheel or circuit.
Brake hose failure can cause sudden loss of braking on the affected wheel or complete brake circuit failure in severe cases. This represents an immediate safety risk and the vehicle should not be driven with damaged brake hoses. Emergency brake hose replacement is required to restore safe operation.
Check brake disc condition for lipping or scoring. Test braking at moderate speed for pulling to one side or vibration through the steering wheel. Review MOT advisories for brake-related items.
This affects both the 1.6 and 2.0-litre diesel engines and occurs across all mileage ranges. The DPF system struggles with short journeys and urban driving patterns common in the UK, leading to incomplete regeneration cycles and progressive filter clogging.
A blocked DPF causes progressive power loss, increased fuel consumption, and eventual engine protection mode activation that limits performance severely. Complete DPF replacement typically costs £1,500-£3,000. Continued driving with a severely blocked DPF can cause engine damage through excessive back-pressure.
Ask about the car's typical usage — short urban journeys prevent DPF regeneration. Check for DPF warning lights and ask about any previous regeneration issues. A forced regeneration at a garage costs far less than a DPF replacement.
The first-generation V40 shows exceptional wear rates in suspension bushes and joints, with MOT failures at up to 78 times the national fleet average. This particularly affects the front wishbone bushes, anti-roll bar links, and rear beam mounting bushes. The issue is most severe on petrol models and becomes progressively worse with age, indicating a design weakness in the rubber compound or mounting geometry.
Worn suspension bushes cause poor handling, uneven tyre wear, and can lead to MOT failure. In severe cases, completely failed bushes can cause loss of wheel alignment and dangerous handling characteristics. Multiple bush replacement is typically required, with costs escalating quickly on older vehicles.
Listen for knocking, clunking or rattling over bumps during the test drive. Inspect the underside for corroded or cracked suspension components. Check the MOT history for suspension-related advisories, which often predict future failures.
First-generation V40 models have a documented problem with suspension joint dust covers deteriorating prematurely, failing at 17.3 times the national fleet average. These rubber boots protect ball joints, CV joints, and steering rack gaiters from dirt and water ingress. Once torn, they allow contamination that accelerates wear of the protected components, leading to expensive joint replacement.
Failed dust covers allow dirt and water to enter suspension and steering joints, causing accelerated wear and eventual failure. While not immediately dangerous, contaminated joints will require expensive replacement much sooner than properly protected ones. Early replacement of torn dust covers can prevent costly joint damage.
Listen for knocking, clunking or rattling over bumps during the test drive. Inspect the underside for corroded or cracked suspension components. Check the MOT history for suspension-related advisories, which often predict future failures.
For the full breakdown of all 5 tracked issues with repair costs, see the Volvo V40 common problems page.
Based on 532k real DVSA MOT tests, the Volvo V40 fails more often than average on several items. The biggest outlier is emissions failure at 316x the fleet average, followed by suspension ball joints worn (135x).
When viewing a specific car, check its MOT history for recurring advisories in these categories. See the full Volvo V40 MOT failure breakdown for data at every mileage point.
Routine servicing (oil and filter change every 19k miles) typically costs £120–£180 at an independent garage.
See the full Volvo V40 service schedule for every interval and cost breakdown.
The Volvo V40 has some well-documented weak points, including 2 safety-critical issues that demand careful checking. The right example, properly maintained, can still be a sound purchase — but cutting corners on the pre-purchase inspection is not advisable. 2015-2017 models with Drive-E 2.0-litre engines (D2/D3/D4 or T2/T3) offer the best blend of refined powertrains and value. Avoid early 2012-2013 cars with older Ford-derived 1.6 units which are the most fault-prone. The D3 five-cylinder diesel is the most proven long-term engine if you can find one.
Before committing, check the car's full MOT history, verify the service record is complete, and if possible arrange a specialist inspection. Enter any registration into our free report to see the complete picture.
Get Car Wise maintains a database of known mechanical issues for every popular car on UK roads, tracking the faults that owners, specialists and DVSA data reveal.
When you run a report on a specific Volvo V40, we cross-reference the exact variant, engine and age against our database of 5 known issues. Combined with full MOT history analysis, mileage verification and DVLA data, you get a complete picture before viewing.
Enter the registration for MOT history, mileage verification, known faults for that exact variant, and a Get Car Wise Score.
This guide was compiled from independent expert reviews, DVSA MOT data, specialist workshops and our own database of 5 known Volvo V40 issues. We are not affiliated with any source listed.