Volvo s40 1st generation. "Second" sedan Volvo S40

09.09.2016

Cars for intelligent, calm and wealthy people, this is the image of the Volvo company. However, young motorists are most often interested in the second generation Volvo S40 model, so it is important to understand how reliable this car is and how much it will cost to maintain a car over the age of 5 years. This is what we are going to try to figure out now.

A bit of history:

The Volvo S40 has a rich history and was produced under the different names "VOLVO 340" and "VOLVO 430", but both models were not very popular among buyers. The first car with the S40 index was built on the same platform as the Mitsubishi Carisma, but in this case, the expected results were not. In 2003, the second generation of the model was released, which was built on the C-1 platform (Mazda 3 was also built on the same platform). The S40 shares about 60% of the parts with Ford, which is why it is called the more expensive version of the Focus 2.

In 2007, an updated version of the model was introduced. The main task of the facelift was to bring the looks of the entire line in line with the new corporate style that was set by the VOLVO S80 . Updated cars are easily recognizable by updated bumpers, a radiator grille with a large logo, an exhaust pipe and head optics. The stern of the car received a modified apron, and LED optics were installed in the lights. In addition to the refreshed design, the car received an original interior trim and added power, the avant-garde interior of the cabin is made in high-tech style. The production of the model was completed in 2012, and the VOLVO V40 was released to replace it.

Advantages and disadvantages of the Volvo S40 with mileage.

The base 1.6 engine (100 hp) is a fairly old engine and is well known from Ford cars. The resource of this power unit, with proper maintenance, is more than 300,000 kilometers, but attachments after 100,000 km will slowly begin to fail. The main problem of these motors lies not in the motor itself, but rather in the owners of the cars, the fact is that the car is quite heavy and the engine of 100 horses is not quite enough for most drivers, and they begin to spin the motor more, as a result, its resource is developed much faster . The gas distribution mechanism drive in it is belt driven, and it needs to be changed every 80,000 km.

Next in seniority are engines 1.8 (125 hp) and 2.0 (140 hp), these engines have proven themselves quite well not only on the Volvo S40, but on Ford and Mazda brand cars. The two-liter engine has a timing chain drive, and is less whimsical to maintain, but unfortunately a car with such a power unit is quite rare. The 2.4 engine (170 hp) is quite expensive and difficult to maintain, its sore spots are the crankcase ventilation system and the ignition system.

There is also a 2.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, but they were also afraid of it, because the maintenance of such a unit is not cheap. There are several diesel engines in the line of power units, although cars with such engines are very rare in the CIS, but if you come across such an instance, it’s better to pass by, because the fuel system is very quickly killed in them from the quality of diesel fuel sold at our gas stations. The weak point of all engines is the thermostat, which often fails.

Transmission

The engines were combined with manual gearboxes and classic automatics, the younger engines 1.6 and 1.8 were only paired with mechanics, and they were of different designs. For a more powerful 1.8 engine, the transmission was strengthened, as for reliability, the owners have no complaints about them. As for the automatic transmission, they are not a problematic place in the car either, the installed gearboxes have proven themselves well not only on this model, but also on other versions of the "" concern, in numbers this means that up to 200,000 km the box does not cause any trouble if change the oil in it every 60,000 km. If the oil is not changed, then the transmission may overheat, as a result, the valve body fails, the repair of which will not be cheap.

Running Volvo S40

In terms of suspension, the Volvo S40 is similar to the Focus 2, and this relationship has only benefited, since many parts are interchangeable, and this, in turn, significantly reduces the cost of repairs, some parts are also suitable from Mazda, in addition to this, a large number of non-original ones are on the market. spare parts. If the car is operated carefully, then there are not so many problems, and serious investments will be required every 100,000 km. After 100 thousand mileage, it will be necessary to replace the stabilizer struts and bushings, silent blocks of the front levers and wheel bearings. This model is equipped with hydraulic and electric power steering, this unit can disturb after 100,000 km.

Body

There are no problems with the quality of the metal of the body and the paintwork, even in places where the paint is chipped, corrosion does not appear for a very long time. And if you see rust on the body of the Volvo S40, this means that the car was involved in an accident, and its owner saved a lot on repairs.

Advantages:

• High level of safety and comfort.
• Build quality and materials.
• Reliable components and assemblies.
• Large selection of non-original spare parts.

Flaws:

• High maintenance cost.
• A bit low (clearance 13.5 cm).
• Rigid suspension.

If you are or have been the owner of this brand of car, please share your experience, indicating the strengths and weaknesses of the car. Perhaps it is your review that will help others choose the right used car.

Good afternoon everyone!

First personal car. It was purchased at a car dealership on May 4, with a mileage of a little over 58tkm. Engine 2.4, 140 hp, automatic. Salon is bright.

Initially, the budget for the acquisition was focused on the figure 450, but later this amount was increased and amounted to 530 thousand rubles. Honda Civic, Foltz Jetta, Ford Focus, Mazda 3 were considered as competitors. Of the more expensive ones, I looked at the BMW 3 Series in the E46 body (it was a priority, but finances changed the alignment) and Audi A4 (the same).

Main selection criteria:

Automatic (main operation - Moscow and Moscow Region)

Attractive design (a matter of taste)

I almost bought a three-door Ford Focus with a 2.0 engine and an automatic, which was 100 thousand cheaper at that time, but in the end I chose the Volvo S40. I didn’t do any in-depth analysis, I didn’t analyze all the pros and cons ... I came, I saw and I bought =)

The range of motors is quite wide. These are Ford petrol 1.6; 1.8; 2.0 (for some time, Ford was the owner of Volvo, as a result, the compatibility of some nodes). And Volvo 2.4 engines in two versions - 140 hp. and 170 hp + more diesel versions. And turbo is, if memory serves. 2.5 liters with 230 hp Correct me if I'm wrong.

My version is a 2.4 engine (5 cylinders). It produces only 140 horsepower, but the torque is in order. Locomotive acceleration is not sharp, but continuous, without failures, from the very bottom to the top. But it is this modification that does not favor sharp accelerations. On the Internet, you can find suggestions to increase the power of this engine to 180 hp. A year and a half ago it cost about 30 tr. How much it costs now - I do not know.

My average consumption was less than 13 liters, although I drove a lot on empty roads. Automatic for this car is reliable. There is a possibility of manual switching. And in general, the safety margin of the car is decent. Ride is good. Taxiing is adequate, everything is predictable. But if you want to race - take another car, preferably with a welded frame, and drive to the racing track.

The design of the car is calm. The attention of the traffic police does not cause. At all. The assembly of the cabin is of high quality, there were no extraneous sounds. The finishing material is pleasant, there was no cheap plastic anywhere. The only problem is the driver's seat. It was wiped off for me ... And not only for me, judging by the pictures on the Internet. Excellent soundproofing. Actually great. A friend in the 8th generation Accord seems to have more noise. Seats in the cabin ... well, it is, I drove in front, the passengers did not make any claims. An interesting design solution is the front console.

There were no problems with reliability, but the service life was less than a year. During this time, I managed to make a big TO60, replace the brake discs and pads, which I will write about separately in the relevant magazines. Servicing was not done at the dealer. Profile services do no worse. Then why pay more?

In general, the car left a positive impression. Would I buy it again if I go back? Yes! And who knows, maybe I'll buy more. And it's interesting to try a station wagon with a turbo engine.

There are not so many centenarians in the global car market, manufacturers are trying to periodically upgrade their models. But the second-generation Volvo S40 lasted on the assembly line for eight years, after which, unfortunately, it retired.

The car was first presented to the public in 2004 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, in 2008 it underwent a small upgrade, after which it was produced until 2012 unchanged.

The second-generation Volvo S40 sedan is based on the Volvo P1 universal platform (recall, Mazda3 and Ford Focus were also built on it).

The idea behind the Volvo S40 is impossibly simple – a compact car with dynamic looks, on par with larger models in terms of comfort, but more affordable and focused on driving pleasure.

What does compact mean? The length of the sedan is 4476 mm, height - 1454 mm, width - 1770 mm. Between the axles it has 2640 mm, but the ground clearance (clearance) is very modest - only 135 mm.

At first glance, the appearance of the Volvo S40 does not stand out with anything supernatural. And this could stop if it were not Volvo! As they say, "the power of charisma" is great. All the plastic of the front of the sedan is made in the brand's signature style, so you can recognize the car among thousands of others. The predatory optics of the head light, the spectacular side line that dictates the shape of the rear lights, the layout of the stern - everything speaks of belonging to the Scandinavians.

In general, the "es-fortieth" has a laconic appearance, characterized by a bright personality and athletic squat, which is especially evident in profile. You can say this about the Swedish sedan - it will please the eye, both in the office parking lot and in any other surroundings.

The "second" Volvo S40 has an elegant, elegant, but moderately austere interior. The dashboard is quite simple, but functional and well readable. In general, the interior space of the sedan is involuntarily built around the center console, the appearance of which largely determines the impression of the car. The Volvo S40 panel is curved in a “wave”, and it is divided into several zones - an air conditioner and a telephone with “music”. The central part of the "dashboard" is littered with buttons that are enclosed between four round selectors, similar to the tuning knobs of an old-fashioned receiver. Well, all the information is displayed on a single small display located under the ventilation deflectors.

But the most curious thing lies elsewhere - not only is the panel thin and it has an additional compartment for various small things, but also its finishing is possible not only with plastic, aluminum or wood, it can also be transparent, thereby revealing the entire electronic " stuffing."

Another distinctive feature of the Volvo S40 can be called the fact that any function can be activated without referring to the instructions - high-level ergonomics.

The Volvo S40 sedan provides ample headroom for the front riders. Lateral support is not very developed, but a person of almost any build can comfortably sit down. The adjustment ranges are wide, the steering column moves along the reach and height, making it easy to find the optimally comfortable position. On the back sofa as a whole is not bad, the seats have a good shape, but there is not enough space for three.

The main problem of the “Swede” is landing and disembarking, during which it is easy to hit your head on the sloping roof rack.

The luggage compartment of the "es-fortieth" is roomy - 404 liters of usable volume. The opening is wide, the loading height is acceptable, the back of the rear seat folds down, which allows you to put quite a lot of things there. Hinges on the lid and wheel arches do not eat up trunk space.

Specifications. In Russia, the "second" Volvo S40 was offered exclusively with gasoline engines, although turbodiesel versions were available for the European market.

• The role of the base on the Swedish sedan is performed by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 100 horsepower and 150 Nm of peak thrust. It works in tandem with a 5-speed "mechanics". This combination allows the car to gain the first hundred in 11.9 seconds, and the top speed is set at around 185 km / h. For 100 km of track, the "Swede" requires an average of 7 liters of fuel in the combined cycle.
• It is followed by a 2.0-liter “aspirated”, the return of which is 145 “horses” and 185 Nm of torque. The engine is mated exclusively to a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The dynamics of such a sedan is at an acceptable level - 9.8 seconds from zero to hundreds and 205 km / h of maximum speed. With more power, such a machine needs only one liter of fuel more than with a junior unit.
• A more powerful atmospheric engine is a 2.4-liter, with five cylinders arranged in a row. With a power potential of 170 “horses”, it develops 230 Nm of peak torque. Paired with the engine is a 5-speed automatic transmission. The sedan does an exercise to accelerate to hundreds in 8.9 seconds, and its “maximum speed” is limited at around 215 km / h. On a combined cycle, the 170-horsepower Volvo S40 requires an average of 9.1 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers.
• The role of the flagship is assigned to a five-cylinder 2.5-liter engine equipped with a turbocharging system and distributed injection. The power of this power unit is 230 horsepower, and the torque limit is set at around 320 Nm. Both a 6-speed “mechanics” and a 5-band “automatic” can go to him in tandem, while the drive is exceptionally full. In the first case, the "es-fortieth" is gaining 100 km / h in 7.1 seconds, in the second - in 7.5 seconds, the peak speed is 230 and 225 km / h, respectively. With decent power, the sedan is quite economical - fuel consumption varies from 9.5 to 9.8 liters of fuel per hundred kilometers.

The "second" Volvo S40 is equipped with independent spring suspension, which is available in two versions: Dynamic and Standard. The “dynamic” suspension is characterized by increased rigidity, as a result of which the car is controlled sharper, but road bumps cause a lot of inconvenience. The “standard” option is the golden mean, as the sedan rides with it softer.

"Es-fortieth" has various technologies that are aimed at improving the safety of riders. The most interesting of them is IDIS, which automatically blocks unimportant information if the driver actively works the gas pedal and steering wheel. In addition, the Swedish sedan is equipped with an integrated Fenix ​​5.1 engine management system, which monitors the condition of the fuel supply systems and maintains idling.

Complete set and prices. Unfortunately for many, sales of the second generation Volvo S40 ended in 2012. In 2017, a used sedan can be purchased on the secondary market at a price of 400~500 thousand rubles. As for equipment, the basic equipment of the car includes: ABS, front and side airbags, air conditioning, power accessories, cruise control, heated front seats and regular "music". More expensive versions have: leather interior, bi-xenon headlight optics, as well as electric adjustment of the front seats.

The small Volvo 300 and 400 series were considered desirable but problematic cars. It just so happened that cooperation with Renault in terms of engines and manual gearboxes, while French electrics and Dutch assembly did not provide traditional Swedish quality. But the first S40 tried very hard to turn the tide.

The motors were now mostly their own, plus one from Mitsubishi. They tried to raise the quality of the car - in particular, the galvanization of the body was supposed to solve most of the issues with corrosion resistance. In practice, however, these goals have not been fully achieved.

The car was able to become much better, but it was the quality problems that could not be completely solved. Corrosion, manual gearboxes, suspensions and electrics caused trouble even on fresh cars. Fortunately, restyling helped with the rejection of total unification with Carisma.

This step, for example, made it possible to make the suspension more comfortable and reliable, improved the anti-corrosion treatment of the body, and the paint stopped peeling off. As a result, the body began to corrode slowly and not so noticeably. And the manual gearbox was replaced with its own, getting rid of the problematic brainchild of Renault.

It is not known what the next generation of the model could be, but the issue was resolved simply. Ford Motor Company bought Volvo, got rid of the unprofitable plant, and the next generation of the S40 was built on a global platform and with Ford components. The production of the model was moved to Ghent, in Belgium, and quality problems were forgotten, small Volvos became just as reliable as the big ones, if not better. Anyway, in that.

What is worth buying?

The first generation Volvo S40 still retains its appeal. Excellent Scandinavian design, very high-quality interior, and even on the move, the cars retain their nobility, despite the years they have lived. The level of comfort is incomparable with the Mitsubishi platform, and it is simply impossible to guess about the relationship.

Pictured: Volvo S40 "1996–2000

And in terms of safety, Volvo has something to offer: a reinforced body structure relies on all cars of the brand, airbags as standard, all proprietary protection systems are also available. In general, the car remains relevant. And at a price of less than 200 thousand rubles, or even less than 150, this is a very attractive option for poor and, moreover, demanding drivers. But she has a lot of "pitfalls" in store. Let's talk about them.

Body

If they tell you that the Volvo S40 is galvanized, believe me, it is. Just do not believe if they say that it does not rust. Unfortunately, galvanizing is not able to permanently protect the body metal, especially if the paintwork is weak and the body panels have many points where dirt can collect. In addition, the primer on galvanized metal holds worse than on ordinary steel.

It was the coloring that became the main problem for pre-styling cars, and after restyling, despite the change in the technical process, there were difficulties with poor ventilation of the area under the plastic sills and with the tightness of the seams of the rear arch and other seals.

Front bumper

original price

34 978 rubles

It is easy to see what these shortcomings lead to: it is enough to inspect a car that costs less than 100 thousand rubles. Rotten thresholds and peeling and rusting arches will almost certainly not be hidden. On machines after restyling, damage is usually less, and the general condition of the panels is better, but the list of main problem points where corrosion is at least already present is preserved. These are the thresholds, especially in the front part, the rear and front wheel arches, the roof above the windshield, the front and rear bumper reinforcements, the front panel at the bottom and at the central bulkhead, the rear panel under the trunk lid seal and the “shelf” under the rear window, where the trunk lid fits, especially the drains on the sides, and the “sandblasting” places on the bottom and arches. The trunk lid and the bottoms of the doors also suffer in the first place, but how attachments are repaired and changed is much easier.

Pictured: Volvo S40 "2002–04

Do not forget about the inspection of the salon. Wet floors almost certainly lead to the appearance of foci of corrosion at all seams, and a wet trunk can also lead to rotting of the side niches and seams of the side members under the soundproofing mats.

There are no problems with the repair of thresholds, there are repair kits numbered 9008011 (left) and 9008012 (right). If the price seems too big, then the pieces of iron from the VAZ-2109 are a good fit (do not forget that we are talking about ultra-budget cars). The threshold itself and the floor connector from the “chisel” need to be lengthened by about 1 cm. Arch repair kits are also available, and they can also be picked up from domestic cars if you are confused by the prices for Chinese parts. Rumor has it they are suitable for Chevrolet Niva with minimal modification.

Thanks to galvanizing: there are practically no cars with serious corrosion in the area of ​​​​the engine shield and damage to the suspension cups, with a rotten bottom and struts, but the restoration of neglected specimens usually does not make sense. It is always easier to find a relatively complete body, and if you do not shy away from working with your hands, it is better to change the manual gearbox or engine than to invest in a body.

When buying, you should be meticulous and not be fooled by external brilliance. A lift or overpass is required, and the thresholds should be tapped - often there is simply no metal there. In advanced cases, the threshold amplifier also rots, which greatly increases the cost of repairs, but for most cars it is enough to replace the outer part and clean and anticorrosive the inside with checking the operation of the body drains.

Pictured: Volvo S40 "1996–2000

The outer plastic door sill provides little protection from sandblasting, but is poorly located. It is she who is responsible for most of the problems of thresholds and adjacent areas of the body. In winter, it collects dirt and snow, and its attachment points are natural catalysts for corrosion.

Front wing

original price

13 088 rubles

The design of the lockers both front and rear is also one of the causes of problems. Weak fastening of the edge at the junction with the wing leads to damage to the paintwork near the clips, and the profile of the front locker simply collects moisture in this area. In addition, they do not compact the arch well enough, and it is constantly wet there. Parts are not that expensive, but if the body of your car is still intact, then you should pay close attention to the condition of the plastic and its fastening. Arch extensions, which should protect the edge from "sandblasting", in practice collect dirt and lead to the destruction of the paintwork under them, during inspection it is necessary to remove them and check whether the metal is preserved inside.

The bottom of the body is usually in an acceptable condition. Slight corrosion on the brackets and in places where the anti-corrosion layer is damaged is sure to occur, but serious and extensive corrosion is relatively rare. Pay attention to the condition of the aluminum heat shields, they protect the central part of the body from corrosion, and if they are removed, or they do not come into contact with the metal, then you need to check the bottom with passion.

Pictured: Volvo S40 "2000–02

Against the background of corrosion problems, all the rest look like a trifle - the usual troubles of old cars. The optics are usually worn out, and the glass caps of the headlights also lose their transparency. Weak fastenings of decorative elements and a radiator grille, cracked fog lights, breakdowns of gearmotors for headlight cleaners, breakdowns of an electrified antenna - these are all characteristic troubles, but they cannot be called serious. Is that all together these troubles will pull a decent amount.

But the breakdown of the trapezium of the windshield wipers is already expensive. Over time, the bushings of the leash axle turn sour, and the bushing turns in the mounting bracket. Of course, the windshield wiper continues to work with a huge backlash, and it does not clean the glass. Any tapping from the drive side is a reason to look under the "frill" for the purpose of revision. The breakdown is solved either by installing repair parts, or by light "collective farming", the latter being more effective if performed at the proper level.

Pictured: Volvo S40 "2002–04

A new part with an installed bronze bushing or even a ball bearing turns out to be many times more reliable than factory plastic with a bushing, it is not afraid of trying to clean glass covered with snow or with frozen wipers. Such parts can be purchased ready-made through the owners clubs, and at a price they will come out no more than the original.

In frosts, the locks of the car tend to freeze slightly, as a result, the “central lock” stops working. But you can usually get into it with a key, so do not forget about the larvae in the doors.

Salon

The interior is made as it should be a premium car. Reliable, solid and with good materials. Age affects very little with minimal maintenance: both leather and fabric, after a good dry cleaning, can please with an almost pristine look. Moreover, the skin can be synthetic, but this usually does not affect the condition. Clearly visible wear is either runs above 300 thousand, or frankly pig handling of the car.

In the photo: Torpedo Volvo S40 "2000–02

There are few exceptions. The gear lever shroud, driver's door handle and leather steering wheel may lose their marketability sooner, but again, this is most likely the result of poor care. There are few breakdowns of interior equipment.

It is worth paying attention only to the power window control panel and their drives, as well as to the operation of automatic climate control. Here, by the way, it is hardly distinguishable at first glance from manual adjustment, since it does not have displays fashionable in the late 90s, but take a closer look, the temperature control knob is marked in degrees on the driver's side. So, this is the automatic climate control. If there are no numbers, and the temperature is on the passenger side, then manual. The only disadvantage of such a system is that for machines with an imperial system of measures, the temperature marking looks extremely unusual.

Machines with high mileage show wear on the fan bearings, but they are quite successfully replaced. Even in machines with climate control, the MJ802 transistor in the fan control system may fail, and it will stop. It is not difficult to find a replacement, but the reason for the transistor to fly out is usually the wedging of the notorious fan bearings, and the work must be carried out in a complex.

Pictured: Volvo S40 interior "2002–04

A loose link of the manual transmission lever on cars before restyling is usually not only a consequence of the wear of the link bushings, but also the general looseness of the switching mechanism of an unsuccessful manual gearbox. The bushings can be replaced, and the mechanism adjusted, but in any case, this is a typical problem and is solved expensively, difficultly and not for long. For cars after restyling, there is only one reason for looseness - the wear of the backstage ball.

Electrical and electronics

The main problems in the electrical part are associated with wet floors, failures of the relay unit and interior fuses. The rest of the electronics is doing well, especially in cars after restyling.

The reliability of the generator is decent, it will easily pass its 250-300 thousand, only an overrunning clutch, which relied on turbocharged engine options, can fail earlier. Breakdowns of electromechanical components are not uncommon, take into account the age of the machine. Fans and gearmotors do not last forever, so their performance should be checked carefully. New parts can be very expensive, and old ones in a “live” state are hard to find.

Brakes, suspension and steering

The braking system of the Volvo S40 is quite simple, and there are few problems. The first step is to pay attention to the condition of the brake lines of the body, especially in the rear. The tubes rot along with the body, and many cars have already been replaced. Brake pipes require mandatory fixation on the racks; in the “free” state, they will certainly rub against the wheel. They are made with a fair margin in length, and you should not leave them hanging out.

With disc brakes, the main problem is the reliability of the caliper pin. It is prone to wear at runs of more than 150-200 thousand kilometers and even sometimes breaks off under increased load. Do not bring it to a strong knock, especially since the original parts are inexpensive, and the part is suitable from the Gazelle, although the resource will be many times worse than the original. Breakdowns of the ABS unit are mainly related to itself, inside it tears off the conductors with age, and the wiring to the rotation speed sensors is quite reliable and causes a minimum of trouble, like the sensors themselves.

Rear trailing arm silent block

original price

1 335 rubles

The suspension of cars before restyling coincides almost completely with that of Carisma, but then conclusions were drawn on its reliability, and the suspension was significantly redesigned by changing the design of the front levers, supports and stabilizer struts and revising the design of the rear suspension silent blocks.

It is clear that for a car with runs of more than 200 thousand, the suspension resource rather depends on the quality of the components used, and not on the design. But even with original parts, pre-styling suspensions rarely go more than 30-50 thousand kilometers without knocking, but on restyling the suspension is both more resourceful and silent. In fact, it is better in everything, there is only one exception: after restyling, the front pillar supports are made with an open bearing in a plastic cage, and it does not tolerate driving on country roads and dirt very well.

Pictured: Volvo S40 "2000–02

Suspension springs for a heavy machine turned out to be a little weak, they sag significantly, and the chances of them breaking are increased. It is useless to buy used, the problem is present even with cars that were operated only in Europe. For those who want to save money, there are ways: for example, many silent blocks can be picked up from Zhiguli or old Mitsubishi. The subframe silent blocks are often replaced with a Zhiguli front suspension shock absorber support, and in the rear suspension, rubber bands from the "Japanese" are pressed into the levers, they are sometimes used to restore engine mounts.

The steering is quite reliable. On pre-styling cars, there are thin Mitsubishi tie rods, they have a smaller resource. After restyling, the rail was changed, and the tie rod is already its own, more resourceful and durable. The rail itself remained the same, moderately resourceful and not prone to the appearance of knocks.

Pictured: Volvo S40 "2002–04

Basically, the rails are afraid of wear on the power steering pump and fluid contamination, after which they begin to flow. They are repaired quite easily, and for the power steering pump there is a repair kit of the stator and rotor, which greatly reduces the cost of restoring the system as a whole. The tubes are quite reliable and only occasionally damaged by corrosion. The system as a whole works reliably, except that it is recommended to change the fluid in the system more often.

***

As you can see, everything is not so bad for a frankly cheap and rather old car. With due skill, it is possible to find a sane copy, especially if you have at least 200 thousand and ask the price of restyling. And what about the boxes and motors? Let's find out.

The restyling version of the second generation of the fairly well-known Volvo S40 sedan (2008-2012) appeared in 2004. Prior to this, the model was produced for 4 years, and this version stood on the assembly line for 5 years. The model was shown to the public at the Frankfurt Motor Show and has not changed very much, but we'll figure it out later.

The manufacturer used the P1 platform, which is also used on the Mazda 3 and. The challenge was to create a simple, small sedan for city driving, which would also have a slightly aggressive appearance.

Exterior

The car got a really good appearance for that time. The smooth shape of the hood and narrow lights look really stylish. The lanterns are halogen, there are lenses, and xenon can be installed for an additional fee. In the middle is a small radiator grill with a chrome trim and company logo. The massive bumper of the car at the bottom received a rectangular air intake and deep-mounted fog lights.

Looking at the car from the side, you understand that the line running from the front arch to the rear optics is quite stylishly decorated. The wheel arch extensions are impressive, but the rear ones are much larger. The threshold has a slightly embossed shape, and in the middle there is a molding that is painted in body color. The rear-view mirrors are quite large, and there is another turn signal on them, by the way, they are made of chrome. In general, the body shape itself is quite dynamic.

The rear part of the Volvo C40 also looks sporty, it has stylish optics, which is made in the classic style of the brand and at the same time it is smartly fitted to the shape of the body. The trunk lid is oversized and has a spoiler on it which adds to the aggression. The bumper received a massive size, and in its lower part there are many relief forms, there are also reflectors. The exhaust pipes, although located under the bumper, look beautiful.

Dimensions:

• length - 4476 mm;
• width - 1770 mm;
• height - 1454 mm;
• wheelbase - 2640 mm;
• ground clearance - 135 mm.

Salon

The branded moderately strict interior of the car is quite good in terms of build quality and ergonomics. Many details of the interior decoration are sheathed with high-quality leather, unfortunately this will not be in every configuration.

As always, we start discussions of the interior with the seats, as we believe that this is an extremely important part. In front, quite comfortable leather seats, with weak lateral support. Behind a simple sofa for three people with a folding armrest in the back. There is not so much free space, but in principle it is enough, in the back it is slightly not enough.

The manufacturer, as you know, pays a lot of attention to safety. 6 pillows were installed, and in the later years of production, a blind spot monitoring system could be found. An adult audience is very attracted to this level of security.

The shape of the driver's steering column Volvo S40 (2008-2012) is thought out in terms of ergonomics. No hints of sports, the task is to make the driver as comfortable as possible. The steering wheel received 10 keys, the main part is for multimedia, some for cruise control, if available. On the one hand, the dashboard is very simple, but after you notice that readability and convenience are really thought out. In fact, these are simple large analog speedometer and tachometer gauges and two on-board computers, but they are really convenient.

The center console received the same architecture, but the material may differ depending on the configuration. The panel happens:

• plastic;
• aluminum;
• Wooden.

The console has a small monitor, 4 washers and vertically arranged buttons. Everything is designed to control music and air conditioning. The selected settings are displayed on the monitor above. On the dashboard at the top is a small folding display responsible for the navigation system.

Separates the front passenger and the driver of the tunnel is also partly made of wood, plastic or aluminum. It has a large gear selector, behind which a pair of buttons and a cigarette lighter are hidden. To the left is a small mechanical handbrake. The final part meets us with an opening box with cup holders and a small niche for small things.

The trunk of 404 liters is quite enough, and the volume is honest, the lid hinges do not interfere with the use of the compartment. The rear backrests fold to carry more cargo, the volume is 883 liters.

Characteristics of the Volvo C40

Type	Volume	Power	Torque	Overclocking	Max Speed	Number of cylinders
Petrol	1.6 l	100 HP	150 H*m	11.9 sec.	185 km/h	4
Petrol	2.0 l	145 HP	185 H*m	9.5 sec.	210 km/h	4
Petrol	2.4 l	170 HP	230 H*m	8.2 sec.	220 km/h	5
Petrol	2.5 l	230 HP	320 H*m	7.1 sec.	230 km/h	5

This car in our country was sold with 4 units in the line. They are all petrol, but their power is not that high, as the car is designed for simple city driving. Let's discuss them in more detail.

1. The most popular and weakest is the L I4 gasoline engine, familiar to Focus owners. This is a borrowed unit with a volume of 1.6 liters. The aspirated has 100 horses and 150 torque, this is not enough, so the owners often spin it up to high revs. It consumes about 9 liters in the city and lives for a long time - 300 thousand kilometers. Attachments often begin to require replacement after 100 thousand.
2. The two-liter 145-horsepower engine is also borrowed from the American manufacturer. The motor is the same, its volume and power are larger. The dynamics here are as simple as possible - 10 seconds to a hundred. He needs a lot of fuel by modern standards - large 10 liters. The problems are the same, that is, small ones.
3. The inline 5-cylinder engine in the Volvo S40 line (2008-2012) has few problems, but they are "chronic", the ventilation and cooling system often fail. The motor produces 170 horsepower and 230 H * m of torque. You should not buy it, since acceleration is only better for one second, consumption is more than 13 liters and more problems.
4. A 2.5-liter 5-cylinder turbocharged in-line was often not purchased due to expensive maintenance. There are few problems with it, but their solutions are expensive. 230 horses and 320 torque units allowed the sedan to accelerate to hundreds in 7 seconds and have a top speed of 230 km / h. In terms of consumption, it is not particularly demanding, about the same as the previous one.

There are a huge number of gearboxes, depending on the motor, a 5 or 6-speed manual was installed. A 5-speed automatic and a 6-speed robot are also offered. The drive is front and full. There are no special problems with boxes if they are serviced on time.

The suspension of the model does not have any particular problems, but this is only in front. MacPherson after a while requires the replacement of ball and silent blocks. The rear multi-link suspension is cheap to repair, but quickly breaks down again, but in a different node. It is recommended to lay out a lot of money once to repair the entire rear suspension and ride quietly for several years. The brake system lives for a long time, problems happened only with the parking brake.

Price Volvo S40

This car was discontinued in 2012, but now it can be bought on the secondary market without any problems. The average sedan sells for 450 000 rubles which is not that expensive as the car is good. There were a lot of complete sets, so you should check them, because the base had only:

• fabric upholstery;
• heated seats;
• radio tape recorder;
• air conditioner;
• fog optics;
• full power package;
• 4 airbags;

The most expensive equipment was replenished with the following:

• leather upholstery;
• multimedia;
• power seats;
• climate control;
• Cruise control;
• xenon optics.

This is a great family sedan that is still up to date and you can buy it now and enjoy the ride. In principle, a young guy can also take the model, because the design is quite aggressive and there is potential for tuning. We strongly recommend the C40 model.

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