One problem related to brake pedal and linkage has been reported for the 2001 Volvo S40. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2001 Volvo S40 based on all problems reported for the 2001 S40.
The brake pedal is too close to the gas pedal in this model. Additionally they are on the same level, that is they are on the same plane when the brake is fully depressed. If the driver's foot is not completely on the brake when it is depressed the gas pedal can be inadvertantly pressed. The distance between the gas pedal and brake pedal is 62 mm (2. 44 inches). I believe this problem is the exact same problem that the Audi was having when drivers thought that they were pushing on the brake when half their foot was on the gas. Having the pedals on different levels avoids this problem completely. Look at the old vw bug with its restricted space. No problem there. I have also reported this problem the Volvo. I would suggest a riser kit to bring the brake up about an inch so the driver has to lift his/her foot up off the gas to depress the brake. I don't want to modify this car since it is so new, the deler will not modify it because of warrantee issues (by the way their mechanic said he had the same thing happen). Could ntsa suggest a modification I can make at my own expense that would address these issues, e. G. Safety and warrantee. Thank you so much for your help on this matter.