Positioning:
Compact executive sedan and estate, aimed at drivers seeking Volvo's renowned safety and Scandinavian design with a more compact footprint than the S70/V70.
Competitors:
Audi A3, BMW 3 Series Compact (E36/5), Mercedes-Benz A-Class, Volkswagen Golf
Distinguishing Features:
Compact size, Volvo safety innovations (e.g., Side Impact Protection System - SIPS), distinctive Scandinavian styling, shared platform with Mitsubishi.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, drive axles, differential
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Engine control unit (ECU), body control module (BCM), lighting system, instruments and gauges, infotainment system, power accessories, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, exterior trim, seats, airbags
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tune-ups
Repair:
Component removal and installation, overhaul procedures, troubleshooting and diagnosis
Diagnostics:
System troubleshooting, fault finding, diagnostic trouble code interpretation, electrical system diagnostics
Depth:
Complete factory level detail, step-by-step instructions, hundreds of photos and illustrations, detailed substeps, notes, cautions, warnings
Engine Options:
Likely included 1.6L (B4164S), 1.8L (B4184S), and 2.0L (B4204S) inline-4 gasoline engines. Potential for turbo variants (e.g., T4).
Horsepower Range Approx:
105 hp (1.6L) to 160 hp (2.0L), with turbo variants potentially exceeding 200 hp.
Injection:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Bosch Motronic or similar.
Typical Codes:
B4164S, B4184S, B4204S
Catalytic Converter:
Standard, with O2 sensors and ECU management.
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission (often denoted as AW55-50SN by Aisin Warner)
Drive Layout:
Front-wheel drive (FWD)
Automatic Transmission Control:
Electronically controlled with multiple shift modes (e.g., Sport mode).
Euro Ncap Rating Early:
Achieved 4-star Euro NCAP rating in its class for occupant protection, reflecting Volvo's strong safety focus.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS) on some models.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side airbags (SIPS bags).
Body Structure:
Integrated Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) and crumple zones.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specific engine/oil type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended replacement every 60,000 - 80,000 miles or 5-7 years, depending on engine type. Critical maintenance item.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40, API SL or ACEA A3/B3/B4 (confirm with manual).
Coolant Type:
Volvo VCS (Vehicle Coolant System) or equivalent long-life coolant.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (verify specific Volvo spec).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
AW-1 or equivalent ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) - consult manual for exact specification.
Common Problems:
Front suspension components (bushings, ball joints), minor electrical gremlins, ABS sensor issues, potential for coil pack failure, timing belt failure if not replaced on schedule.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket leaks can occur with age.
Volvo Legacy:
Volvo Cars, founded in Sweden in 1927, known for safety, reliability, and distinctive design.
S40 Generation:
This is the first generation of the S40, launched in 1995 as a replacement for the Volvo 440/460. It was re-engineered and refreshed for the 1999 model year.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily built in Ghent, Belgium. Shares platform with Mitsubishi Carisma.
