VOLVO V40 (2002)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,201 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
68%
Total Tests (2024)
1,201
Avg Mileage
124,584 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,217
Is the 2002 VOLVO V40 reliable?
Below average reliability. Budget extra for maintenance and repairs. That's 14 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the VOLVO brand average of 87%.
At 22 years old, 68% of VOLVO V40s from 2002 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,201 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 124,584 miles.
How does the 2002 VOLVO V40 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2002 VOLVO V40 has 124,584 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 162,800 miles for a 22-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a VOLVO V40?
The most reliable year is the 2019 model with a 88% MOT pass rate, while the 2000 model has the lowest at 66%. The 2002 sits between the two at 68%.
How much does a 2002 VOLVO V40 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 V40 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 88% | 13,557 | 37,595 mi |
| 2018 | 85% | 21,560 | 46,813 mi |
| 2017 | 84% | 23,480 | 57,396 mi |
| 2016 | 82% | 27,152 | 67,465 mi |
| 2015 | 80% | 28,590 | 79,222 mi |
| 2014 | 80% | 30,222 | 89,093 mi |
| 2013 | 80% | 20,970 | 99,522 mi |
| 2012 | 76% | 4,370 | 105,566 mi |
| 2004 | 66% | 1,585 | 125,049 mi |
| 2003 | 66% | 1,843 | 125,362 mi |
| 2002 | 68% | 1,201 | 124,584 mi |
| 2001 | 70% | 959 | 121,513 mi |
| 2000 | 66% | 547 | 116,773 mi |
| 1999 | 67% | 544 | 104,983 mi |
| 1998 | 67% | 336 | 97,373 mi |
| 1997 | 70% | 274 | 97,758 mi |
| 1996 | 95% | 38 | 92,559 mi |
Checking a specific VOLVO V40?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2002 VOLVO V40
The 2002 VOLVO V40 is a premium with a 1948cc petrol engine. 1,201 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 79% of 2002 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 124,584 miles at 22 years old, VOLVO V40 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2002 VOLVO V40 Fuel Costs
The 1948cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2002 VOLVO V40?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,217 (£185/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £700 predicted repairs. The higher repair estimate reflects the 68% MOT pass rate. Cars in this bracket tend to need work on suspension, brakes, and emissions components.
VOLVO V40 Reliability Trend
Newer VOLVO V40s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 14 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2002 VOLVO V40
At 22 years old, the VOLVO V40 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 2019 model has the highest pass rate at 88%.
Alternatives to the 2002 VOLVO V40
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- MINI MINI (2004) 71% pass rate (+3%) from 36,444 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2004) 69% pass rate (+1%) from 29,927 tests
- RENAULT CLIO (2004) 68% pass rate (same) from 15,179 tests
- MERCEDES C (2004) 72% pass rate (+4%) from 13,493 tests