IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2012–2013 Volvo V40

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 2012–2013 Volvo V40. None are considered critical, but they're worth knowing about before you buy.

4
Known Issues
0
Serious
3
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Air conditioning compressor failure

ModerateCooling System

Compressors can seize or stop cooling properly, and in the worst cases the auxiliary belt can be affected too.

Est. Repair Cost: £400–£700
Warning Signs:

Weak or no cold air, Noisy compressor, Belt squeal after AC use

What to Inspect:
  • Test AC at full cold
  • Listen at idle with AC on and off
  • Check for recent compressor replacement
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Snapped rear coil springs

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

The V40 is known for snapping its rear coil springs, often discovered during MOT tests or as a metallic clinking sound over bumps.

Est. Repair Cost: £150–£300
Warning Signs:

Metallic clinking or pinging noise, Car sitting slightly lower on one side, Visible break in the spring coil

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the coil springs for breaks or rust
  • Listen for knocks during the test drive
  • Check MOT history for suspension spring advisories
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Water ingress around windscreen and scuttle

ModerateBodywork & Rust

Poor sealing can let water into the passenger footwell and eventually upset electrical modules or create persistent misting.

Est. Repair Cost: £150–£500
Warning Signs:

Damp carpet, Steamed-up windows, Intermittent electrical oddities after rain

What to Inspect:
  • Feel under front carpets
  • Inspect windscreen edges and scuttle drains
  • Check for water marks behind trim
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Door lock actuator failure

MinorBodywork & Rust

Just like other Volvos of the period, individual locks can fail and leave one door ignoring the remote.

Est. Repair Cost: £150–£300 per door
Warning Signs:

One door stays locked, Double press needed to unlock, Remote works inconsistently

What to Inspect:
  • Check each door separately
  • Try both keys
  • Listen for weak latch movement
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2012–2013 Volvo V40

  • ✓On diesel cars, confirm EGR and DPF work has been done if the car spent most of its life around town
  • ✓Check the air conditioning on a warm day because failed compressors are not rare
  • ✓Test locks, dashboard display and sensors carefully because small electrical faults are common with age
  • ✓Inspect the passenger footwell and windscreen edge for any sign of water ingress
2014–2015
Check a 2012–2013 Volvo V40 by Registration