VOLVO V40 (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,585 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
66%
Total Tests (2024)
1,585
Avg Mileage
125,049 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,217
Is the 2004 VOLVO V40 reliable?
Below average reliability. Budget extra for maintenance and repairs. That's 16 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the VOLVO brand average of 87%.
At 20 years old, 66% of VOLVO V40s from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,585 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 125,049 miles.
How does the 2004 VOLVO V40 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 VOLVO V40 has 125,049 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 148,000 miles for a 20-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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 2004 sits between the two at 66%.
How much does a 2004 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 2004 VOLVO V40
The 2004 VOLVO V40 is a premium with a 1948cc petrol engine. 1,585 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 86% of 2004 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 125,049 miles at 20 years old, VOLVO V40 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2004 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 2004 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 66% 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 2004 VOLVO V40
At 20 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 2004 VOLVO V40
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- HONDA FR-V (2004) 67% pass rate (+1%) from 246 tests
- SEAT TOLEDO (2002) 64% pass rate (-2%) from 125 tests