2009 Volvo S40 recalls and problems

The 2009 Volvo S40 has 3 safety recalls and 10 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Volvo dealer.

Recalls
3
Complaints
10
Crashes / fires
0 / 3
Injuries / deaths
0 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2009 Volvo S40 vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2009 Volvo S40 recalls

Recall 10V-591: Seats

Reported Nov 22, 2010 · 7,420 vehicles affected · VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.

Problem: Volvo is recalling certain passenger vehicles equipped with power front passenger seats. The front seat rail's detection system was manufactured incorrectly and may permit the passenger to forward the seat beyond the intended maximum.

Risk: Positioning of the seat beyond the intended maximum can cause increased risk of injury to the passenger in the event of a crash.

Fix: Dealers will inspect the front power seat stops for both front seats for the presence of an "end stop" and repair the vehicles as necessary free of charge. The safety recall began on december 23, 2010. Owners may contact volvo at 1-800-458-1552 or at customercare@volvoforlife.com.

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.

2009 Volvo S40 problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Power Train3
Unknown or Other2
Service Brakes, Hydraulic1
Engine1
Engine and Engine Cooling1
Wheels1
Tires1
Suspension1
Fuel/Propulsion System1
Electrical System1
Exterior Lighting1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 65,000 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 2009 Volvo S40 complaints

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

Unknown or Other · reported Oct 22, 2021
I purchased the 2009 Volvo on 10/5 at M&M Auto Sales LLC and on 10/9 at 6:20 am my vehicles check engine light turned on and a transmission service urgent light turned on. On 10/11 I went to AAMCO and they informed me that the transmission needed repairs costing up to 4k. When I purchased the car the dealership disclosed to me that the vehicle is in perfect condition. As of 10/21 I went to a Mechanic Shop called Pegoraro and ran a full auto diagnostic on the vehicle. With repairs on the vehicle costing $12,433.03 which involve fixes to the Timing Belt, Cooling System Fluid Exchange, Drive Belt…
Power Train · at 69,400 miles · reported Dec 4, 2018
Replacement of cv joints- october 2018 my vehicle was diagnosed with leakage from the cv joints which splattered all underneath my vehicle. My vehicle only had 69,000 miles. The technician stated that they should not have been a problems with so few miles. He stated that my vehicle's steering would have been compromised if they had failed and cause damage to my engine. I travel 1 hour one daily to work. It could have caused a potential accident if it hadn't been diagnosed in time. It has been since then repaired.
Electrical System · reported Dec 4, 2018
Headlight wiring- made an attempt to change light bulbs for headlamps. Covering around electrical wiring harness which connect to headlight crumbled in my hands and electrical wiring is exposed. Worries that this may be potential fire hazard to my vehicle and myself. My vehicle was stationary in my driveway.
Fuel/Propulsion System · at 80,000 miles · reported May 8, 2017
Improper draining route which in result causes mold and damage to floor mats and seat cushions in rainy weather. Transmission fluid has higher acidity levels. Coolant regularly falls below minimum level required.
Suspension · at 95,000 miles · reported Oct 22, 2016
Both front wheel bearings needed to be replaced within 1 year of each other. Vehicle is not driven over rough terrain or pot holes.

Other Volvo S40 years

Compare all Volvo S40 years · All Volvo models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2009 Volvo S40 have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 3 recalls for the 2009 Volvo S40: 10V-591 (seats), 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 2009 Volvo S40?

Owners report power train problems most often (3 reports), followed by unknown or other (2). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 65,000 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.