VOLVO S40 (2010)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 3,808 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
72%
Total Tests (2024)
3,808
Avg Mileage
110,559 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,595
Is the 2010 VOLVO S40 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 10 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the VOLVO brand average of 87%.
At 14 years old, 72% of VOLVO S40s from 2010 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 3,808 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 110,559 miles.
How does the 2010 VOLVO S40 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2010 VOLVO S40 has 110,559 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 103,600 miles for a 14-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a VOLVO S40?
The most reliable year is the 2012 model with a 76% MOT pass rate, while the 2000 model has the lowest at 65%. The 2010 sits between the two at 72%.
How much does a 2010 VOLVO S40 cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
VOLVO S40 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | 74% | 66 | 94,541 mi |
| 2012 | 76% | 2,267 | 101,974 mi |
| 2011 | 74% | 2,791 | 110,521 mi |
| 2010 | 72% | 3,808 | 110,559 mi |
| 2009 | 74% | 4,499 | 109,564 mi |
| 2008 | 72% | 5,487 | 115,488 mi |
| 2007 | 73% | 3,388 | 119,784 mi |
| 2006 | 73% | 3,314 | 119,567 mi |
| 2005 | 70% | 2,790 | 116,994 mi |
| 2004 | 70% | 2,223 | 106,865 mi |
| 2003 | 67% | 1,280 | 104,893 mi |
| 2002 | 69% | 823 | 102,845 mi |
| 2001 | 71% | 599 | 101,232 mi |
| 2000 | 65% | 379 | 95,420 mi |
| 1999 | 66% | 425 | 95,707 mi |
| 1998 | 74% | 356 | 98,379 mi |
| 1997 | 72% | 219 | 99,179 mi |
| 1996 | 73% | 40 | 84,454 mi |
Checking a specific VOLVO S40?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2010 VOLVO S40
The 2010 VOLVO S40 is a premium with a 1560cc diesel engine. 3,808 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 79% of 2010 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 110,559 miles at 14 years old, VOLVO S40 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2010 VOLVO S40 Fuel Costs
The 1560cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 55 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £905 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2010 VOLVO S40?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,595 (£133/month), broken down as £905 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 72% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
VOLVO S40 Reliability Trend
Newer VOLVO S40s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 4 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2010 VOLVO S40
At 14 years old, the VOLVO S40 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2012 model has the highest pass rate at 76%.
Alternatives to the 2010 VOLVO S40
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2012) 75% pass rate (+3%) from 185,847 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2012) 80% pass rate (+8%) from 98,183 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2010) 74% pass rate (+2%) from 92,611 tests
- VAUXHALL CORSA (2009) 73% pass rate (+1%) from 91,541 tests