2008 Volvo S40 recalls and problems

The 2008 Volvo S40 has 2 safety recalls and 16 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Volvo dealer.

Recalls

Complaints

Crashes / fires

5 / 0

Injuries / deaths

2 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2008 Volvo S40 vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2008 Volvo S40 recalls

Recall 10V-566: Equipment

Reported Nov 8, 2010 · 416 vehicles affected · VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.

Problem: Volvo is recalling certain vehicles equipped with garmin 760 portable global positioning system (Gps) units because the batteries on those units may overheat.

Risk: An overheated battery could lead to a fire.

Fix: Volvo advises owners to please stop using the garmin portable GPS device immediately, and visit the garmin website to determine if their unit is affected. The unit's battery will be replaced with a new battery and a spacer will be inserted on top of the battery next to the pcb. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall began on november 18, 2010. Owners may contact garmin at 866-957-1981 or visit garmin's website at www.garmin.com/nuvibatterypcbrecall.

Recall 08V-329: Steering

Reported Jul 23, 2008 · 1,020 vehicles affected · VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.

Problem: Volvo is recalling my 2008-2009 vehicles. A section of the power steering return line hose was not properly vulcanized (Cured) and does not meet specifications. If the power steering return hose fails, a sudden rupture of the hose can occur.

Risk: This can result in a rapid drainage of the power steering fluid in the system and a complete loss of power assistance, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the steering return line hose assembly free of charge. The recall began on august 13, 2008. Owners may contact volvo at 1-800-458-1552.

2008 Volvo S40 problems reported by owners

Problem area	Reports
Electrical System	4
Engine	4
Steering	4
Vehicle Speed Control	3
Visibility	3
Suspension	2
Air Bags	2
Seats	1
Wheels	1
Unknown or Other	1
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)	1
Tires	1

Most reported parts

Visibility › Sun/Moon Roof Assembly — 2
Tires › Sidewall — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 75,265 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2008 Volvo S40 complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Visibility · at 133,000 miles · reported Jun 6, 2022

The contact owns a 2008 Volvo S40. The contact stated while his spouse was driving 70 MPH, the moon roof exploded. The vehicle was driven back to the residence. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 133,000.

Electrical System · reported Aug 10, 2021

After buying the vehicle on 7/9/21, the car started having problems with the cooling system. I took it to a repair shop and they said the cooling system was overfilled. The air problem continued. I took it back to the dealership who said they fixed it but it continued. I contacted the prior Manufactuer service center who informed me the computer chip was recommended to be replaced when the dealer had it serviced but they declined, causing all the electrical and cooling issues. I called the dealer and they said they had the alarm disconnected also which was why the computer system wasn't…

Engine · at 191,000 miles · reported Aug 8, 2018

The contact owns a 2008 volvo s40. While driving 60 MPH, the vehicle overheated and stalled. In addition, the check engine warning indicator illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 191,000.

Electrical System · at 75,265 miles · reported Mar 2, 2017

The air pump has a faulty switch, started ringing when I turn the engine off. The mechanic says the switch isn't shutting off correctly.

Tires · reported Oct 24, 2016

The contact owns a 2008 volvo s40 equipped with continental extremecontact dws tires, size: 205/50/17 (Na). While driving approximately 35 MPH, the front passenger side tire experienced a sidewall blow out after driving over gravel in the road. During the incident, the vehicle sustained damage to the suspension, bumper, and rocker panel. The cause of the failure was not determined. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The DOT number, vehicle failure mileage, and VIN were not available. The tire failure mileage was 12,000.

Other Volvo S40 years

2011 2010 200920082007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000

Compare all Volvo S40 years · All Volvo models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2008 Volvo S40 have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2008 Volvo S40: 10V-566 (equipment), 08V-329 (steering). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2008 Volvo S40?

Owners report electrical system problems most often (4 reports), followed by engine (4). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 75,265 miles.

Are Volvo recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Volvo dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.