I own a 2000 Volvo S40. We just had our fifth trip to the dealer to correct knocking noise/rattle in the front suspension. Problem started at 44,191 miles. Now at 59,800. Two sets of control arm bushings and two sets of sway bar bushings replaced. Noise returns within 2000 mi of service. Also, I have had the rear brakes go out at 17,500 miles. Pads wore thin and cut into the rotors. That one cost $335. Also, air conditioner went out at 9000 miles. I paid the extra money to get a Volvo because I keep my cars for a long time. (I also own a 18 year old Audi 4000.) I bought Volvo for one word: Reliability. I have found that Volvo does not stand behind their products. This S40 is hugely expensive to maintain. I am making far too many trips to the dealer to keep trying to get defects fixed.

- Venetia, PA, USA