Volvo S40: common problems, APK failures and recalls
There are 6,789 Volvo S40 cars registered in the Netherlands, first registered between 1997 and 2013.
In a sample of 141 cars, 65.2% had at least one defect at an APK inspection since 2024, more often than average (51.5% across all models).
The most common defect is tyre tread depth insufficient (15.6% of inspected cars).
The RDW lists 2 recalls for this model; 0% of registered cars still have an open recall.
2.9% have an odometer reading the RDW marks as illogical, a sign of a rolled-back odometer.
Check a specific Volvo S40
Free: APK expiry, insurance, open recall and odometer verdict. The full report adds every APK inspection with its defects.
Most common APK defects
| Defect | Cars |
|---|---|
| Tyre tread depth insufficient | 15.6% |
| Dipped beam incorrectly aimed | 12.8% |
| Tyre pressure incorrect | 12.1% |
| Spring broken or cracked | 11.3% |
| Drive shaft boot damaged and not sealing | 9.2% |
| Position light not working (properly) | 8.5% |
| Number plate light not working (properly) / missing | 7.1% |
| Indicator colour deviates or not permitted | 7.1% |
| Particulate filter not working properly, particle count too high | 7.1% |
| Tyre damaged | 6.4% |
Share of 141 sampled cars (first registered 2012–2021) with this defect at an APK inspection since 2024. RDW Open Data: Geconstateerde Gebreken.
Common advisories
| Tyre(s) with tread depth of 1.6 to 2.5 mm | 23.4% |
| Mechanical brake parts show wear | 9.9% |
Advisories are noted at the APK but are not a failure.
Fleet figures
| Registered in the Netherlands | 6,789 |
| Open recall (not yet fixed) | 0% |
| Illogical odometer reading | 2.9% |
| Used as a taxi | 0.1% |
| First registered | 1997 to 2013 |
All Volvo S40 passenger cars in the RDW register, 2026-10-06.
Recalls
| Published | Component | Risk | Cars in NL |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014-01-13 | engine, fuel, lubrication and cooling | – | 193 |
| 2013-05-02 | transmission and drivetrain | serious | 123 |
Recalls registered with the RDW for this model; not every recall applies to every car. Check a plate to see if one is open.
Questions
How often does the Volvo S40 fail the APK?
In a sample of 141 cars first registered 2012–2021, 65.2% had at least one defect at an APK inspection since 2024, against 51.5% across all models.
What are common problems with the Volvo S40?
The most common APK defects are: tyre tread depth insufficient (15.6%), dipped beam incorrectly aimed (12.8%), tyre pressure incorrect (12.1%).
Does the Volvo S40 have recalls?
Yes, the RDW lists 2 recalls. 0% of registered cars still have an open recall. Check a specific car by licence plate on factline.dev/vehicle.
Other Volvo models
XC40 · XC60 · V60 · V70 · V40 · XC90 · EX30 · V50 · S60 · EX40 · V90 · XC70 · C30 · S80 · C70
Source: RDW Open Data (Gekentekende voertuigen, Geconstateerde Gebreken, Terugroepacties), CC0. Model grouping by Factline from RDW trade names. AI agents: factline.dev/llms.txt.