ExhaustHigh
DPF blocking on D2 diesels used in town
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Run to full temperature and check for warnings
2013–2019 Volvo V40 · common problems & known faults
A premium-feeling hatchback still in steady demand as an affordable used buy with a strong safety record.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed August 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2013–2019 Volvo V40 are DPF blocking on D2 diesels used in town, Timing belt intervals on older diesel engines and Powershift automatic judder and hesitation. 5 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
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Build the inspection planReliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Volvo V40.
2.8/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 5
- Medium
- 3
- Low
- 0
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Known faults to check
EngineHigh
Timing belt intervals on older diesel engines
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Check for documented belt replacement
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Build the inspection planTransmissionHigh
Powershift automatic judder and hesitation
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Test from cold in slow traffic
SuspensionMedium
Bush and drop link wear causing knocks
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Listen over rough roads
Engine / EmissionsHigh
Coolant loss or EML illumination due to a cracked or blocked EGR cooler, particularly on post-2015 VEA 2.0-litre diesel engines.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Check the coolant expansion tank for low fluid level or black soot deposits. Start the engine and listen for a rough, uneven idle.
Body / ElectricalMedium
Door lock actuator failure causing one or more doors to remain unlocked when the vehicle is secured, or refusing to open from the outside.
- Typically appears
- 60,000-90,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Lock the car using the remote fob. Walk around and pull all four exterior door handles to confirm they are physically secured.
Transmission / ClutchHigh
Clutch pedal sticking to the floor or failing to return fully due to a failing master or concentric slave cylinder on manual models.
- Typically appears
- 70,000-100,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Depress the clutch pedal to the floor and release it slowly. Ensure it springs back fully to the top without needing to be pulled up.
Body / InteriorMedium
Water ingress into the cabin caused by the factory windscreen bonding degrading, usually at the top corners.
- Typically appears
- 6-10 years
- What to inspect
- Press your hand firmly into the front footwell carpets to check for dampness. Inspect the headlining above the A-pillars for water stains.
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Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
Is the V40 still worth stocking?
Yes as a value premium hatch, provided the belt and DPF history stack up.
Which engine is safest?
The petrol T2 and T3 for town buyers. Diesels need proper motorway use to stay healthy.
What do buyers value?
The safety reputation and the interior. Both help it sell above mainstream rivals.
Are there any specific servicing requirements for the VEA engines?
Yes, the 2.0-litre VEA engines introduced around 2015 require specific 0W-20 VCC RBS0-2AE specification oil. Using standard grades can cause premature wear to the balance shafts and variable valve timing components. Always check the service history for the correct oil grade, as incorrect servicing severely impacts engine longevity.
How can I easily identify if a model has a Powershift or Geartronic gearbox?
Pre-2015 1.6-litre diesels and petrols use the Ford-derived six-speed Powershift dual-clutch transmission, which requires strict fluid changes. Post-2015 2.0-litre VEA engines are paired with the robust Aisin Geartronic torque-converter automatics. Checking the engine capacity on the V5C is the quickest and most reliable identification method on the forecourt.
What should I look out for regarding the pedestrian airbag system?
The V40 features a pedestrian airbag under the bonnet trailing edge, relying on sensors behind the front bumper. Check the bumper for poor previous paintwork, filler, or misalignment from minor impacts. Poor repairs can damage these sensitive sensors and trigger an expensive SRS warning light on the dashboard.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.
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