2005 Volvo S40 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.48/5 Average
152 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

A redesigned S40 was introduced halfway through the 2004 model year as a 2004.5 model. It continues into 2005 unchanged.

Pros:
  • Sharper handling than you would expect from a Volvo, T5 version offers quick acceleration, well-designed interior controls, long list of safety features, available all-wheel drive.
Cons:
  • Firm suspension can be choppy on the highway, average performance from the non-turbo engine.

User Reviews:

Showing 71 through 80 of 152.00
  • A lot of car for the money - 2005 Volvo S40
    By -

    We bought our Volvo S40 T5 FWD new back in October 2004 have had very good luck with it. The 218 HP turbo engine is phenomenal. If youre seeking an adrenaline rush every time you hit the gas pedal, go for the T5 versus the ho-hum 2.4i. Handling is tight with almost no body lean. Highway ramps are a blast. Steering feedback is just right. However, even with TLC, the leather has not worn well at all. The seats are thinner and harder than those in the older S40 model. There is virtually no way to add an iPod adapter, and the ride is harsh. I agree with another owners post that the heated seats do not get warm enough. In my particular S40s case, maintenance has not been an issue

  • great care, great price - 2005 Volvo S40
    By -

    i was shocked to read about all of the problems some people have had with their s40. the only problems ive had with mine are the ones i caused - i got a little too close to at trash can on the side of the road and cracked my mirror (but only the glass, the motor was fine), ran over a nail and got a flat, cracked my oil pan backing down a driveway even though i was extremely careful (i guess the car is a little low for a sedan). other than that, NO problems. i love harvey (my car)! super fun to drive and plenty of power. on a road trip to vegas i was approaching nascar speeds - and i dont have the more powerful turbo engine.

  • Still Smiling - 2005 Volvo S40
    By -

    Purchased the S40 T5 at the beginning of August, 2004. Ten months and 13000 miles later, I still smile every time I see my S40 in the parking lot or garage. I had also considered the Acura TSX, Infiniti G35 and Honda Accord V6 coupe - and have no regrets over my decision. The low end torque provided by the turbo means fun starts any time I want them. The sport suspension provides crisp cornering and keeps the car headed where I want it to go. While a compact car, the back seat is still large enough to haul three teen agers around town comfortably.

  • Great at first, all down hill - 2005 Volvo S40
    By -

    When I purchased it it was great and reliable. Since then Ive had the radio glitch which is very annoying. Ive had the A/C repaired it stopped blowing cold air. Im a 200 Lb. guy and the back of my seat where the lumbar support is snapped. I have the dynamic trim package which as the sport suspension not a very comfortable ride when you hit bumps in the road. Ive had lowered cars ride more comfortable than this. My power door locks dont lock from the remote anymore. Now after almost 5 years Im about to sell this car it was a good car but I wouldnt buy another Volvo.

  • Volvo Man - 2005 Volvo S40
    By -

    The car is enjoyable enough. I stink at driving and dog my cars and its still going great at almost 70,000 miles. I would not recommend the car, buy a Honda its cheaper and more reliable. But if you really love Volvos its not too bad.

  • Very Disappointed - 2005 Volvo S40
    By -

    I have had this car for less than a year and it has been in the shop for brake problems 3 times already. Ive also had to go in for software updates for 3 times also. Now Im having a airbag issue. The company is non- responsive to these problems. This car has made me miss my old car that was 8 years old.

  • My Volvo! - 2005 Volvo S40
    By -

    I bought my Volvo used with 3k miles on it and have driven it all over Europe, I have yet to have any problems. The only thing I could possibly complain about is the lack of factory tint on my windows. Also if you have something heavy (15 lbs) or more sitting in the passenger seat it will sound a bell and there is a flashing seatbelt sign. If you can call that a bad thing. And the last one is the lack of after market sterios made to utilize the new dash/radio in the S40.

  • starting problem - 2005 Volvo S40
    By -

    i have a 2005 s40 s.41 base model with 5 speed. i have 2300 miles on it and it has been back to the shop twice so far. both times it wouldnt start and had to be towed. the 1st time they replaced the starter relay switch. now they say its the battery. anyone else have this problem or know what the problem really is? or do i just have a lemon

  • WAY more bang for the buck... - 2005 Volvo S40
    By -

    I use this primarily as an "airport" car so I wasnt looking to make an emotional purchase. I wanted a dependable, well-made, safe sedan that offered a warranty at least as long as my 48-month lease. I got a lot more than I bargained for with the S40 Its very rewarding to drive-- solid, smooth, and responsive enough with the 5 speed manual to have plenty of freeway acceleration. This car feels like it could be driven over 100MPH all day long without breaking a sweat. Fantastic interior with a very smart center control console. So much more car for the money than the Camry, Mazda 6, and Honda Civic I shopped it against. Would recommend to anyone. Great car, period!

  • No more Volvos for me - 2005 Volvo S40
    By -

    This is my first and last Volvo ever. Since I bought the car in 2005, its been in the shop over 16 times for a variety of reasons: air bag malfunction, climate control issues, circuit boards frying, battery failures, remote not working, steering failure, etc. In fact, the car has been towed to the dealership 2 times since 2005! (And this was a brand new car). Never again am I going to buy an S40... and never again a Volvo!

Volvo S40 Reviews By Year:
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