Volvo S40 owners have reported 122 service brakes related problems since 1996. Table 1 shows the 24 most common service brakes problems. The number one most common problem is related to the vehicle's service brakes (24 problems). The second most common problem is related to the vehicle's brake disc pads (17 problems). For details of each of the problem category, use the links in the table.
The car has problems starting and takes a few tries before starting up. Have also had a problem where the car was in park with the parking brake engaged and the car was revving on its own. There have also been problems while the car has been slowing down on the freeway, specifically when the brakes Read details...
Types of recurring issues with Volvo S40: headlights, driver front window motor, early brake pad wear. Headlight bulbs were replaced 2-3 times a year at consumer's cost. When brought to the attention of Volvo dealer they reported that it was probably due to lights being used during daylight. Read details...
My 2004 Volvo S40 occasionally does not seem to have any hydraulic brake assistance when it is first started in the morning. This was very occasional starting a couple of years ago, but is becoming more frequent. On Monday, I had to restart the car 5 times before the brakes felt "normal". Read details...
2000 Volvo S40 no brakes until car is at operating temperature. I reported this to the manufacturer and they said to continue to drive the vehicle after letting it warm for a few minutes. I have already rolled into numerous intersections due to no brakes. Read details...
The proximity of the gas & brake pedal is a potential problem that needs to be addressed. This obvious problem was evident the very first time I drove the car. Regular sneakers are noticed, but is compounded when in work style boots. Please research this- Read details...