Should I replace my Volvo V40 with a V50?

My 2001 Volvo V40 has got some major problem, which will cost about €2,000 to fix so Iam looking at getting a V50. I got my Volvo when it was five years old and soon after it needed a major part replaced, which was usual for its age at the time. I don't want this to happen when I buy a V50 so wonder what year car I should get? I see a lot of the 2008 models for sale and wonder will they be needing some new part as soon as I get it?

Thanks for your help

Helen Rafferty (Bray)

Jul 2013 Filed under: choosing used car

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Expert answer

Hi Helen,

Yeah, the V50 wasn't Volvo's finest hour when it came to reliability. Plenty of owners have never had a tap of trouble but we've heard reports of problems with the brake master cylinder, mysterious engine power losses, fuel pump and cooling fan failures, power steering and throttle pedal issues. Best thing to do is to check a car's history with the previous owner, if possible. If it gave them no trouble you could be on to a winner.

For the record, our Editor bought a 2006 version recently.

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Adviser
@neilmbriscoe