Making its debut in 2018, the Volvo XC40 is a compact SUV that boasts a luxurious Scandinavian design, both inside and out.
Offering a quiet, comfortable ride and excellent fuel economy, the XC40 is a standout choice in its segment.
If you’re interested in purchasing one, you might be wondering how long it’s average life span is.
We’ll cover all that and more in this article, read on to find out more…
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Here is the short answer to how long Volvo XC40s last:
The Volvo XC40 can last between 200,000 and 250,000 miles when properly maintained, well looked after and driven conservatively. Based on an annual mileage of 15,000 miles, the XC40 can provide approximately 13 – 17 years of service before breaking down or requiring expensive repairs.
How Many Miles Can You Expect from a Volvo XC40?
The XC40 is a relatively new model and as such there is a limited amount of historical data surrounding it’s longevity.
However, we have based our estimates having researched review sites and all Volvo models in the XC line-up as they use similar platforms and engines as well as taking into account Volvo cars in general.
With this in mind, we would expect the XC40 to reach 200k – 250k miles, and when subject to exceptional care we would not be surprised by reports of owners exceeding these mileages.
Being such a new model, the XC40 is expected to have a healthy lifespan as it benefits from improved manufacturing and the use of better parts – newer cars in general tend to last longer.
To reach these milestones however will require work on the owners part, primarily:
- Smooth, conservative driving habits – to reduce wear and tear on components.
- Regular routine checks of fluid levels and tire pressures as well as keeping the vehicle clean.
- Keeping up to date with factory scheduled maintenance as per the owner’s handbook.
You may also be be interested in our article: where are Volvo XC40 made?
How Soon Should You Expect Rust on a Volvo XC40?
There is no set time when you should expect rust on your XC40, however where you live and how you care for your vehicle will play a large role in how soon it may occur.
The Volvo XC40 has had no major reports of rusting, and this holds true for all SUVs in Volvo’s XC range.
Volvo has constructed the XC40 in such a way as to minimize rusting, this includes protective coatings, the use of corrosion-resistant materials and high-quality paint.
For some locations, rusting will be much more of an issue:
- Coastal regions, where salty ocean air harms the paint and corrodes metal parts.
- Areas that use salt to melt snow on the road – again, the salt will accelerate corrosion.
- Areas with excessive rain and high humidity; moisture will speed up rusting.
All vehicles are susceptible to rusting, however a good rust prevention regime can help reduce the risks significantly, as such we advise the following:
- Maintain your rustproofing. Each new Volvo comes with a rust-inhibiting coating on exposed areas. Professionals should touch up this coating at least every two years.
- Clean your vehicle frequently. Especially after exposure to rain, dirt and salt.
- Storage. The best place to store your Volvo is in a dry, covered area such as a garage. If you live or store your car near the ocean, consider covering it with a tarp at the end of the day.
- Respond quickly to rust. If you notice rust that is beyond a DIY fix, have the problem evaluated by a certified auto body repair technician before it spreads.
Volvo also recommends an occasional squirt of Mobil 1 spray lube for the door hinges, locks and a few other parts.
How Long Does the Volvo XC40 Last Compared to Similar Car Models?
In this section we’ll compare the longevity of the XC40 to some of it’s closest competitors.
Volvo XC40 vs. Audi Q3
The Audi Q3 is a small premium SUV with an eye-catching design, combined with a high-quality interior.
The expected lifespan of the Q3 is shorter than the XC40 with a projected lifespan of 200,000 miles whereas the XC40 is projected to last up to 250,000 miles.
RepairPal rated the reliability of the Q3 as 3 / 5, indicating average reliability whilst other automotive outlets have suggested that the Q3 has sub-par reliability and build quality.
RepairPal currently does not have a reliability score for the XC40.
- J.D Power has given the XC40 an average reliability score of 73/100 across models from 2019 – present.
- J.D Power has given the Q3 an average reliability score of 69/100 across models from 2019 – present.
Winner: Volvo XC40
Related: How Long Do Audi Q3 Last? (12 Important Facts)
Volvo XC40 vs. Subaru Forester
The Forester is Subaru’s flagship compact crossover, known for being robust, practical and good off-road.
The Forester has a lifespan on par with the Volvo XC40. Both vehicles can achieve 200,000 – 250,000 miles, which equates to 13 – 17 years.
The Forester has a RepairPal reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5, indicating above-average reliability, whilst the XC40 is unrated.
- J.D Power has given the XC40 an average reliability score of 73/100 across models from 2019 – present.
- J.D Power has given the Forrester an average reliability score of 78/100 across models from 2019 – present.
The Subaru Forester will be cheaper to purchase and maintain however it will lack the luxury of the Volvo.
Winner: Draw
Please also read our article: how long do Subaru Forester last?
Volvo XC40 vs. BMW X1
The BMW X1 is a small premium SUV thats fun to drive and practical.
It’s lifespan however falls short of the XC40, with an expected life of 150,000 – 200,000 miles.
The BMW X1 has a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 on RepairPal, which is just above average.
- J.D Power has given the XC40 an average reliability score of 73/100 across models from 2019 – present.
- J.D Power has given the X1 an average reliability score of 71/100 across models from 2019 – present.
Winner: Volvo XC40
You may also be be interested in our article: how long do BMW X1 last?
How Reliable is the Volvo XC40?
Volvo is better known for its impeccable safety record than it is for reliability.
In recent years the Swedish automaker has received mediocre ratings in this department, however the XC40 has come out the gate strongly with higher than average expected reliability.
- J.D. Power gave scores of 77/100, 71/100 and 71/100 for model years 2019, 2020 and 2021, respectively.
- Drivers who rated the XC40 on Kelly Blue Book gave it an average rating of 5 out of 5 for reliability.
The 2021 Volvo XC40 was ranked #1 in luxury subcompact SUVs by US News.
From our research we would suggest the XC40 is a reliable vehicle.
The Best and Worst Years for the Volvo XC40
In this section we’ll assess the best and worst model years of the XC40.
Volvo XC40 Worst Model Year
Based on data from the NHTSA, the worst model year is 2019.
The 2019 XC40 reportedly had problems with the driver assist tech.
There were also complaints related to the airbags.
Volvo XC40 Best Model Year
The 2022 and 2023 models are excellent choices.
Both of these models have a low number of complaints and great scores from auto critics.
Read more here: 6 Best & Worst Volvo XC40 Years (Pictures & Stats)
What About Recalls for These Models?
According to statistics collected by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there have been a total of 4 recalls for the Volvo XC40 since 2018.
Recalls are manufacturing repairs that are offered at no cost to the consumer.
Some examples of XC40 recalls are:
- In 2020 a recall was issued regarding a faulty automatic emergency braking system.
- A recall was issued for certain 2019 models in relation to rear seats that moved under hard braking conditions.
- In 2018 a recall was raised pertaining to a software issue which meant the GPS was unable to provide location information in the event of an emergency.
Recalls for individual model years are listed below:
- 2018: 3 recalls
- 2019: 0 recalls
- 2020: 1 recall
- 2021: 1 recall
Volvo XC40 Model Year List
First Generation:
- 2018 Volvo XC40
- 2019 Volvo XC40
- 2020 Volvo XC40
Are Volvo XC40s Expensive to Maintain?
Repair Pal is yet to issue annual maintenance costs for the XC40.
However, we would expect the cost of ownership to be similar to that of the XC60, which Repair Pal has reported to be $746 per year.
This is slightly below average for luxury compact SUVs which typically cost around $859
How Long do the Brakes Last?
Depending on how the vehicle is driven, the brakes that come standard from the factory on the XC40 should last between 30,000 and 60,000 miles.
Controlled and smooth braking will help make your brakes last longer.
How Long do the Tires Last?
The tires supplied with the Volvo XC40 should last at least 50,000 miles.
- Maintain the correct tire pressure as specified by your owner’s manual.
- Have your tires rotated regularly to ensure even wear.
How Long do the Spark Plugs Last?
Like most modern vehicles, the new spark plugs in a Volvo XC40 should last at least 100,000 miles.
Spark plugs are responsible for creating the spark that ignites the air/fuel mixture, causing the explosion which makes the engine produce power.
They are usually inspected and if needed, replaced when you go for a tune up.
How Long do the Transmissions Last?
With proper maintenance, a Volvo XC40’s transmission should last over 150,000 miles.
Ensure fluid levels are topped up and fix any problems immediately to keep the transmission running smoothly.
What About Insurance Cost?
The XC40 costs slightly more to ensure than other vehicles, with an average annual insurance cost of $2,772.
Related: Volvo XC40 Snow and Winter Driving (Solved & Explained)
Tips to Prolong the Life of your Volvo XC40
- Keep up to date with factory scheduled maintenance.
- Keep fluids topped up and check fluid levels regularly
- Drive smoothly, use controlled acceleration and braking
- Check your tire pressures at regular intervals
- Check engine oil every two weeks
- If possible, keep the vehicle stored in a garage, out of the elements
- Use good quality parts and fluids
- Invest in a ceramic coating to protect against contaminants and minor scratches
- Consider all rust-proofing options
- Wash the vehicle regularly particularly when encountering salt and snow
- Confirm the weight of objects before attempting to tow them, do not overload your vehicle.
Resources
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Volvo/XC40/
https://www.kbb.com/volvo/xc40/
https://www.edmunds.com/volvo/xc40/
https://repairpal.com/reliability/volvo
https://repairpal.com/reliability/audi
https://repairpal.com/reliability/Subaru
https://repairpal.com/reliability/Volkswagen
https://www.cars.com/research/volvo-xc40/recalls/
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/volvo/xc40