Used 2003 Volvo V40 Consumer Reviews
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We have a limited number of reviews for the 2003 V40, so we've included reviews for other years of the V40 since its last redesign.
Very Good Car
Jay Bee, 11/07/2010
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
12 of 12 people found this review helpful
Had my V40 for 8 years, 120K miles. It is a great sport wagon. Excellent cargo room, comfortable for my family of 4. Handles well and was my 50 miles a day commuter averaging 26 mpg mixed driving. Expensive to service but there were no major problems in 8 years. Burns through headlights and bulbs. Don't know why. All over the internet but dealers claim ignorance. My 16 year old just inherited it. Safe, runs great, expect another few good years from it. Over all a good purchase new, and if taken care of, worth the blue book value used. Maybe even undervalued in blue book if clean and taken care of. Just keep after those damn bulb changes.
Fine used car
gordon, 06/27/2010
2003 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
12 of 12 people found this review helpful
We purchased this in 2009 with 38,000 miles on it. Have put 2 2,000 mile trips on it and averaged 39 mpg. Around town it gets around 22 mpg. Car has plenty of zip and handles well. Both my wife and I find the seats comfortable. The lumbar support helps. A/C blows cold and have had no work other than regular maintenance done on it. Would recommend as used car.
2003 Volvo V40 for sale near you
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- Base WagonMSRP: $3,995670 mi away
Very happy Volvo owner
jk, 11/22/2008
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
This is my first Volvo, and I bought it used two years ago. It replaced a Honda Civic. So that's the car to which I compare my V40. As noted, I bought the car two years ago. I haven't replaced a headlight yet. The windshield does need to be replaced, but living in Wyoming means high winds and sanded roads will affect a windshield negatively. I wish the fuel economy were better, but who doesn't? The cargo room is just about perfect. The seats are comfortable, and the ride is very quiet. (Perhaps it's my tires.) In fact, given the choice between taking our newer Subaru or the Volvo on a 2,000 mile round trip road trip, we decided on the Volvo. This won't be my last Volvo!
Why Europeans tend to get it right
Adam Lausch, 05/21/2010
2003 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
I must say that this is truly a unique car. I've rated it as unbiased as tough as I can. I simply love to drive it, and I've owned some pretty nice vehicles. I think one of its major downfalls is that Volvo didn't offer a manual transmission, that would be a blast. I love the V50s, but we were able to find a very nice V40 with low miles for $6K. I couldn't pass it up. So far I've have the check engine light come on once, and I think the ignition timing may have been off a bit. So I changed out a set of new high-performance plugs, and it's running superbly. Good performance, not great. It's so comfortable as well. Why buy a SUV for a small family when there are fun and economic wagons like this
great!
mel_e, 02/02/2011
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
10 of 11 people found this review helpful
My car has 114K miles and still runs great. It definately burns through headlights as other reviewers have noted. I had some electrical? issues a short time ago, my mechanic thought there may have been a recall but the volvo mechanics said not. The dealership mechanics are the problem. apparently I needed new sparkplugs and the head gaskets cleaned. I think they just didn't want to reimburse me for the THREE sensors that needed to be replaced within one month of each other, if its an electrical issue they're supposed to refund your money. Regardless, I love my V40. Also, when i got it i got 32 mpg. after disconnecting the computer, it now gets 26+ but i drive more in town now so...
Everything I imagined it would be!
Allison, 10/12/2002
2003 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I purchased my 2003 V-40 about a month ago and I am VERY HAPPY with everything about it! The interior is well- designed, spacious, and fits like a glove. The exterior is classy and very cool. Plus- add the eurorails & fog lights and you get one sporty ride. A little bit slow to start off with- but once it passes the 30 MPH mark- you are flyin'! So far- so good!
Great car. Would like more room.
DBK, 01/24/2005
2003 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I really love this car. It handles beautifully. The safety components (that are standard on all Volvos are very rare on other cars. Great heating/ac system and thermostat. Had some problems with the back latch. Other than that, the car has been reliable and very enjoyable to drive.
Goodbye Old Paint
Victor the Volvo, 08/31/2009
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
7 of 9 people found this review helpful
I just traded in Old Vic aged 98,000 miles. I have read other reviews and found them unappreciative. First, you need never be ashamed to pull up in a Volvo, no matter where, no matter how small. Second, although maintenance wasn't cheap, it was great at my local Volvo Dealer - Coast of Sarasota - very professional and thorough. Third, this car was gas-efficient and capable of carrying a number of dogs, cargo, and other assorted living/inert objects with grace. Fourth, it was comfortable. You sank into the seats, not on top of them. A million organized cubbyholes for all your junk are provided. It's a nice, sane, well- planned ride. Great visibility. I hope you enjoy it.
Not Bad/Not Great
Lincoln Steffens, 10/21/2003
2003 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I wanted the Passat Wagon, my wife did not. We chose this primarily because of the Volvo name and safety features. The price as also competitive. We live in the city so we V70 would have been too big. This car is somewhat too small, particularly in cargo area and backseat when compared to its competitors. He drives and handles well and is pretty zippy on the freeway. Gas mileage for city driving is surprisingly poor for a 4 cyl. car (15 mpg). Requires premium gas too!
Vord not what Expected from the Swedes
arad, 11/29/2008
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
5 of 7 people found this review helpful
I loved this car when I bought it. I believed in the Volvo reputation of long-life and reliability. Honestly, I thought I'd found my match for life. It handled well and was very comfortable. Had this car for about a year before experiencing major problems with overheating. Dealership repair visits 4x over the next year until, at 112K mi, the vehicle overheated one last time, the head gasket blew out and the turbo charger wanked. $5000 in repairs! If you can find one of these cars still on the road, I'd be surprised. I haven't seen one in about 1 1/2 years. You might not see it in the dark though, because they burn through lamps like crazy. Also, expect to replace brakes frequently.
A little noisey for a European car
tkreimes, 08/30/2002
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I find it overall a descent car. I like the way it looks. I had an Audi A4 in the past so I am a bit spoiled. My next car will be another A4. Don't be discouraged, if you like American cars, you will love the V40. When driving on dirt roads, the DSA system works great.
I'm driving a 'Vord'
Vord owner, 12/11/2003
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The good is overshadowed by the bad: Brakes @ 15K miles, windshield @ 12K, cruise control / headlights @ 24K, tires @ 25K. Worst was thermostat @ 25K. Dealer flushed the system to find "peanut butter" like substance. Dealer says this is "bars leaks" (never heard of it). Dealer says this was added and is reason for thermostat failure. The car has been serviced by 3 volvo dealers only! All deny adding this. It could impact the radiator, new thermostat, and my warranty. Volvo of North America will do nothing! From my experience with the manufacturer, dealer, and car it's clear that I bought a Vord. Stay away from this vehicle, it will only disappoint you.
Never Again!
akaslick, 03/22/2004
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
After first year of ownership, every week, 1 or 2 light bulbs go out! Thank gawd for the warranty! Very inconvenient. The car is expensive to maintain. The car doesn't hold value like the other volvos. I was told otherwise. It's funny that when I brought my car to the dealer for the 30k service, the 2 people in front of me were complainig about the problems they were having with their cars. They don't make'em like the early 80's 240DL's anymore. Too bad!! I'll never buy another!
End of Lease Review
Graham, 03/21/2005
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
There were 3 areas of disappointment I had with this vehicle: 1)excessive brake pad wear, 2)poor quality original tires, and 3)expensive maintenance costs. The interior quality was good, almost excellent. When the car was new, it felt like a struggle to get it up to 65-75 mph, but now that it has over 50k miles, it flies! So the power and acceleration improve with age! Too bad I am returning it.Volvo has got to do something to compensate owners for the poor brake pad wear, they won't admit that there is a problem.The OEM Continental tires would not stay inflated properly.Also had 2 flats.Upgrade to Michelins required tires rated to 150 mph! Expensive. Why Volvo?!
Saved my daughter's life
meonly, 03/14/2008
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My daughter totaled my first V40, hit on 3 sides, air bags inflated, went airborne across 4 lanes of traffic and hit by 3 cars. Not a scratch on her or her friend. I didn't think such a light weight car would have its occupants survive an accident like that, neither did the paramedics. Thank you for that. I am a volvo owner for life. Waiting for the xc60, that will be my fourth volvo.
Just a review
Alex Makhanko, 04/20/2002
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
The best car I have ever had
This is not the 144 my dad drives
guy.sherr, 06/13/2002
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
V40 rides very quiet. The difference between windows open and closed is just jaw dropping. Seating is comfortable, nice appointments, excellent finishing. 1.9L turbo accelerates strongly into traffic, although a little slowly with the A/C on. Mileage, windows up and A/C, highway was about 31.8 on cruise control in hilly terrain. Handling is good for a wagon. Swerves don't alter the lean much, and the car feels ready to turn at speed. Overall is well crafted and toughly engineered. This car may well outlast the oil reserves.
this car rocks!
akaslick, 07/26/2002
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is perfect...form, function. The best part is that it's not a flashy car.. Because there aren't too many on the road, it looks fresh.
V40 Volvo Wagon
Reg, 08/01/2002
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a 2000. The interior is cramped. Poor placement of electrical control in the center pedestal as are hand brake and flip-flopping armrest.The locations of coin and cup holder are poorly located. Some of these defects were corrected in the 2001. Only the epress window control is located in the drivers door armrest and no window control is provided in the passenger's armrest. Michelin tires improve driving and durability.
Performance wagon?
Volvoowner, 08/07/2002
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very happy with this car. Bought it right before a long road trip with my with. Plenty of room in the folding rear area for two weeks worth of camping gear. Highway ride was very smooth, and engine provided plenty of power for entrance ramps and passing. Cabin is very quiet, similar to much more expensive luxury cars. Leather seats are very supportive, but could use a little extra bolstering. The (upgraded) sound system is awesome!! Averaged better than 32 miles to the gallon over 1200 highway miles. Overall, fun car to drive, great safety features, comfortable and practical.
Big disappointment
DJ_in_WA, 09/10/2002
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The car has been plagued with electrical problems the dealer has been unable to identify and correct. Random stalling and loss of power steering have made the vehicle unsafe to drive. The excellent overall design, spaciousness, and comfort features are overshadowed by the car's fundamental unreliability.
The worst car I ever purchased
MICHELE, 04/23/2002
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Every time you turn around there is another problem. My car has been serviced monthly for a variety of problems from AC malfunctioning, to the check engine light, and I am on my forth set of headlights! ENOUGH SAID!
V40 is terribly unreliable
Frustrated V40 Owner, 01/02/2003
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great looking car -- too small to be useful for my family. BUT -- this is the least reliable vehicle I have owned in my life -- air mass meter replaced, cruise control replaced three times, front control arms and ball joints replaced after 20,000KM, numerous squeaks and rattles. Avoid this vehicle at all costs.
Happy, so far...
slick, 06/19/2003
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had my V40 for just over a year now and I've been happy with it. I haven't had any problems with it. I ended up with it because the sales people at the mercedes dealership next door(owned by the same company)didn't give me the time of day (I was wearing jeans and a t-shirt).
Love this car
davidz, 08/17/2004
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my first Volvo and I really love the car. I drive my cars pretty hard and this car has held up well, minus the problems which seem to be unfortunately quite common for the V40. The v40 is fun drive- handles well and is quite zippy. Front seats are very comfortable. Some people have complained about the non-standard radio controls, but I think they are the most effective and useful controls I have ever used. Tuning knob to scan through 20 presets makes more sense than separate preset buttons and is much easier to use while driving. Common problems affecting this vehicle are: 1) brakes wear out quickly. 2) electrical system burns through headlights
Disappointing
arcin69, 09/19/2004
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Car has been mechanically reliable but disapointing otherwise. Seatings and cabin are uncomfortable. Controls not ergonomically designed. Power seat controls replaced at 15,000 miles. Windshield cracked with the slightest touch of a speck. Found out later , Volvo has a reputation for windshields easily cracked but expensive to replace. Leather on seats permanently deformed from leaving a book on the seat. Wont' but it after lease turn in.
Practical and Economical while still Fun
thirtysomething, 01/30/2007
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car because it was reasonably priced and the because of Volvo's reputation. It is a bit on the small side if you have more than one child or move lots of stuff, but it a very practical car that holds quite a bit with the rear seats completely flat. The acceleration is surprisingly quick for a 4 cyl. It is better than many V6 I have driven. The handling is tight enough for a sports wagon but I wouldn't go searching for curves. Fantastic mileage! This is what is keeping me from upgrading to a bigger or more powerful car or hybrid. 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. I've had zero maintenance issues in 5 years. Change your oil!
Great Car for a fraction of a price
bokakhat, 04/14/2003
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It is a great car. So many safety features and yet not a high price.Milage is great and i love the seats and comfort
Great Car!
mridenou, 03/26/2002
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had a most agreable experiencve thus far owning this car. It comes very well equiped and is built to last.
The Best!
Anna, 04/08/2008
2002 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car overseas with American specs. I drove it three times round trip to Italy and back to Brussels, Belgium (over 20 hours drive) and never had a problem. It spacious, reliable and looks great. I do keep it up. I take it only to Volvo for any required check up or parts. The headlights I only had to change them twice but this is normal for any car. I had little problem with the check engine light but it got resolved. Great car and I would buy it again. Rule of thumb: Take it only to Volvo for any problems and you will never have to complain about it.
Surprisingly competitive
Jackpot, 10/31/2002
2003 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Light, narrow and quick (once you get past the turbo lag). Excellent for the price, more fun and nicer than a Subaru, etc. Performs comparably to the BMW 3-series wagon, the MB C-class wagon, or the Audi A4 series for much less $. Handles well on snow.
No Regrets
biohazard6161, 11/21/2002
2003 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We always pictured Volvos as boxy, boring cars. I was really suprised when a friend recommended this car and once we saw it. The fit and finish is really very good as is the power and space and especially the safety and security features. if Volvo is aiming this car towards the younger generation and first time parents, they are on the right track.
good car for the money
jimg, 11/23/2002
2003 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I like the car very much I put around 65,000km a year The operating costs is low for a car from across the pond I will keep it for three years and move to a larger version though.. this car is fantastic in the city but lacks weight in the country roads
V40 vs. Passat
jseattle, 12/13/2002
2003 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We purcahsed the V40 over the Passat for three reasons: 1) no turbo lag in the V40 compared with noticable lag and kick in the Passat; 2) better exterior styling in the wagon configuration; and 3) better interior trim finishes-dash and leather feel. The engine feels like a V6 and is w/o noticible turbo lag and accleration wheel pull on the front wheel drive. Both we felt could have been better on the Passat we test drove.
This is a great car!
isabelle, 01/04/2003
2003 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
What a great car. We recently went to look at the XC70 and didn't really like it as much. The V40 is comfortable, practical, and so fun to drive.
Superior
Paul van der Thujs, 02/28/2003
2003 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
While VOLVO's are not known as fun or quick cars, this is a real surprise.
Love My Swedish Souvenir
Reina, 08/28/2003
2003 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My car has been great so far! It's a smooth, comfortable ride that's nicely equipped and offers good fuel economy-- especially highway. Cozy driver's seat too. And at $24K (including the Premium Package, Climate Package and a week-long trip to Sweden and London) the deal through the OVERSEAS DELIVERY program was beyond fair--and a fun experience!
An absolute steal!
JTK, 03/02/2003
2003 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just picked up a new, fully loaded 2003 V40 a few days ago after doing extensive online research of smaller, upscale wagons. Feature wise (on paper), the V40 is by far the best value going vs. other upscale smaller wagons, such as the BMW 3-series and Audi A4A Avant. After our first hundred miles or so driving the car, it's clear this car doesn't miss a step vs. the competition. Especially with the current incentives. It's almost too good to be true.
V40: What a nice surprise!!!
Solo, 03/04/2003
2003 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I chose it over the VW Jetta and Passat wagons based on price and performance, V40's are absolutely a better value in Puerto Rico because VW's are overpriced. The exterior design is simple, but refined and tasteful. Interior design looks and feels expensive and well- finished. Excellent very supportive front seats. There is limited space on the rear seat, but it is roomy and comfortable enough for children and average adults. Acceleration and braking are more than adequate for daily commuting and will even allow some fun on twisty roads and long stretches. It cost only $26k, but every friends and aquaintances guess has been from $38k to $50k.
A great car at a great value!
akke bengston, 02/27/2004
2003 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've always wanted an 1800ES wagon and I was surprised to discover the stylish v40 among the usual Volvo boxes. We drove it, liked it and bought one. The incentives on this car make it very appealing, especially considering next year's replacement looks too much like another VW. The more we drive it, the more we like it.
v-40
Patwest, 07/26/2004
2003 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It is almost as heavy as my old '95 850T (which had 210000 on it). Handles like a larger car. It has a lot of zip with the turbo engine. It U-turns in 3 lanes. Plenty of room for a bike, wheelchair, or lots of luggage. Middle seat is short, but not as bad as some compact wagons.
Fun Car, Safe Car
Jeremias Gentry, 03/28/2003
2003 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We were looking for a good combination of a vehicle that was fun to drive, safe in the event of an accident, and provided utility for a small family. We found it in the V40. I was suprised by the smooth acceleration and responsiveness, definitely enough to work through the perilous Atlanta traffic with ease. We test drove all the wagons and felt this was our best option.
Very Pleased
tdtg72, 04/04/2003
2003 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car after VW had to buy back my lemon Jetta. I really enjoy the wagon with my large dog. It looks youthful and doesn't necessarily scream soccer mom like the larger wagons. My V40 is fully loaded and everyone always comments on the headlight wipers. I love it.
my new volvo
Carol Choun, 11/13/2002
2003 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
this has been an excellent car so far. great pickup, good gas mileage, smooth,fun to drive. lots of room, i have the wagon, plenty of storage, drives like a dream. good vision
Great Little Car
DKRoss, 06/19/2003
2003 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Well built car, lots of standard equipment. At $29.5K, it's not the best deal on the planet....but after a $4500 incentive, and a $200 deal...the net was $22.5K....a GREAT deal...when used MY2000's sell for $17K. mine has the 15" wheels and tires, I think I would go for the 16" setup. I added the Volvo front strut bar, makes a great differance in handling.
From Volvo patriot to to Volvo hostage
bigalexk, 11/25/2008
2003 Volvo V40 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 6 people found this review helpful
The car was a subject of three repairs by warranty including one when I stuck in the road and the car was towed to an auto repair shop. After the warranty the owning of the car has turned into financial disaster. The car is purposely design to exclude or hinder repair by the owner. Now my car is 6 years old having 73000 miles on odometer and it has serious transmission problem. The repair costs so much that I cannot afford it. The car is filled with manufacturing defects and bad design solutions. While it was in repairs and I had chance driving S40 and V50. I found them even worse. What a big mistake I made when I got into this Volvo bondage!