Volvo V40
Drive-E turbocharged four-cylinder with 2.0 litres and 187 kW for the T5 range. Larger turbocharger than the T4 with higher boost pressure for a more sporting character. Eight-speed Aisin automatic as standard; strictly observe oil change intervals.
Compact and sporty
T5 Drive-E in the V40: 187 kW in a compact car is genuine driving pleasure. Direct, agile, convincing.
Engine Weaknesses 6
All Drive-E T variants use belt drive. On the T5 with high-pressure turbo, the belt change is especially important — a failure causes immediate total engine damage. Recommendation: early change at 100,000 km.
Symptoms: No warning before sudden failure; possible squealing with failing tensioner
The high-output T5 Drive-E shares the piston ring problem with the T4. Vehicles up to MY2016 are particularly affected. Increased oil consumption is systemic and was covered by a class action lawsuit.
Symptoms: Oil consumption above 0.5 L/1,000 km, blue smoke on warm-engine acceleration, oil level drops noticeably between changes
The Drive-E T5 uses a timing belt (not a chain). Volvo's stated change interval is 150,000 miles / 10 years, but specialists recommend considerably earlier (120,000–150,000 km). Belt failure causes engine damage.
Symptoms: No early warning signs typical — sudden engine stop without prior indication at belt failure. Prevention: inspect for cracking at every service
The T5 is among the most frequently affected Drive-E engines for the oil consumption problem. Particularly 2015–2017 model years were addressed under a service campaign (S29650). Volvo extended the warranty to 8 years.
Symptoms: Oil level drops noticeably between changes, occasional blue smoke, no visible external oil loss
The crankcase ventilation of the T5 Drive-E clogs when oil change intervals are neglected. Crankcase pressure forces oil past seals, accelerates oil consumption and can cause turbocharger damage.
Symptoms: Overpressure at oil filler, oil in air filter housing, elevated oil consumption
Rubber boost pipes to the intercooler age and burst under driving conditions. On the T5, more frequent than on the T4 due to higher boost pressures. A short-term repair is often possible, but permanent hose replacement is recommended.
Symptoms: Sudden power loss, whistling or hissing noise, check engine light P0299 (turbo underboost)
Vehicle Weaknesses 11
The Ford/Getrag Powershift gearbox 6DCT450 in the V40 II judders on pull-away, shifts jerkily, occasionally refuses reverse gear and leaks fluid. In the worst case the gearbox fails completely.
Affects V40 II model years 2013–2016: a cooling system defect can cause coolant to escape onto hot engine components and, in extreme cases, cause underbonnet fires. Volvo recalled affected vehicles.
The rear brake calipers on the V40 II seize, causing uneven pad wear and preventing the parking brake from working correctly. Rust on the brake discs accelerates the problem.
The A/C compressor fails at 40,000–80,000 km through defective compressors or leaking pipes. Warm air despite A/C being on and unusual noises are typical symptoms.
The V40 II starter battery is a known breakdown weak point. Deep discharge occurs frequently after just 3–4 years, especially with short city runs. Quiescent current measurements show elevated standby consumption.
Coolant loss occurs especially on T3 and T4 engines after 80,000–100,000 km. The cause is leaking hoses or the coolant reservoir cap. A pressure test is recommended before purchase.
The V40 II windscreen tends to leak at the upper edge due to poor factory adhesive. Water collects under the carpet, can damage electronics and cause mould.
MOT inspectors regularly flag worn suspension springs and dampers on the V40 II. This becomes apparent early on poor roads. Rear brake pads also show above-average wear.
Door locks freeze in very low temperatures and cannot be opened or closed. The lock has to be removed and dried; use lock grease preventively.
The paint on the plastic bumpers flakes off early, especially with dark colours. The cause is inadequate factory priming; repainting is more durable than spot repairs.
Faulty seat heating mats are a frequently reported problem on the V40 II. Usually only one side still works or heating output drops off markedly. The cause is worn heating elements or faulty controllers.
Reports & Tests
1 owner complaints filed with NHTSA (2012–2019). Most reported: Other (1).