Volvo S40 and V50 (P1) 2004-2012

Many reports of unreliability due to electrical issues, and some reports of automatic transmission problems, particularly on later models with the Ford Powershift automatic transmission.

All engines have a timing belt which need regular replacement, although Volvo interval is longer than most. Depending on engine, the replacement interval is either 190,000 km or 240,000 km, or every ten years.

Expensive to replace PCV system can cause issues. Coolant expansion tanks also crack with age and leak.

Some early Australian models came with a full size spare but later models came with a space-saver.

Image credit: IFCAR, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons