Volvo XC40 used car? This checklist helps you avoid problems

Buying a used Volvo XC40 is an excellent choice, provided you tick off the right checkpoints. The XC40 varies greatly in trim level and drivetrain, from petrol and diesel to plug-in hybrid and fully electric. Paying close attention during the test drive and inspection is therefore essential. With this checklist you’ll know exactly what to look out for to prevent brake judder, infotainment issues, battery complaints and suspension problems.

Check maintenance history and software updates

Start by checking the maintenance history. Choose a car with a complete service record and demonstrable services. This gives you insight into how the previous owner treated the car. Pay extra attention to whether software updates have been carried out. This is an important point with modern Volvos with extensive electronics and driver assistance systems.

A fully maintained XC40 is less likely to suffer from unexpected failures. Ask the seller for documentation of the services carried out. Check whether any recalls have been dealt with. This prevents you from being confronted with costs later on. For more information on common problems you can consult the Volvo XC40 page.

Assess mileage and usage pattern

Compare the mileage with the maintenance history. Also check the general condition of the car. Low mileage sounds attractive, but you should also look at the usage pattern. A car that has mainly been driven on short trips often shows more wear. A car with a lot of motorway miles generally suffers less wear. For diesel versions this is extra important. Frequently driving short distances increases the risk of contamination of the particulate filter.

Check the condition of the interior and bodywork. Compare this with the mileage. Many XC40s have been used for business. This often means intensive daily use. Carefully inspect the condition of the seat bolsters, screens and controls.

Test the drivetrain during the test drive

The XC40 comes with different drivetrains. The test points differ per type. Always take an extensive test drive. Pay attention to jerky acceleration, unusual noises and warning messages on the dashboard. In electrified versions, give extra attention to how regenerative braking works (recovering energy when slowing down) and the transitions between hybrid modes.

Petrol and diesel

Test whether the engine changes gear smoothly and listen to how it runs. With diesel versions it is wise to ask about the driving pattern and the type of distances driven. A diesel that has mainly been used for short journeys carries a higher risk. Wear in the exhaust system will then occur more quickly.

Plug-in hybrid

Check whether the car functions properly both in electric mode and on fuel. Test the charging, ask about the charging cables and pay attention to smooth transitions between electric drive and combustion engine. Ask the seller about the charging history. This gives you insight into how the car has been used.

Fully electric

For the electric XC40, check the charging history. Also thoroughly inspect the charging port and battery condition. Take a longer test drive. While doing so, test the range indication, the recuperation system (energy recovery when braking) and the software behaviour. Watch out for any error messages and whether the battery still has sufficient capacity.

Inspect brake judder and suspension

Brake judder is common in used cars. Test the brakes at different speeds during the test drive. Pay attention to vibrations, squealing or slower brake response. This may indicate worn brake discs or pads.

Also test the suspension. Turn the steering wheel fully left and right during the test drive. Pay attention to strange resistance, noises or faults when on full lock. Drive over poor road surfaces. Listen out for creaking or rattling noises. Check whether the car continues to drive straight ahead without pulling to the left or right. Uneven tyre wear often points to incorrect wheel alignment. Defective suspension can also be the cause.

Thoroughly test electronics and infotainment

The infotainment system, sensors, cameras and assistance systems must work flawlessly. Check this during your inspection. Check the reversing camera for image quality and any faults. This is a specific point of attention with the XC40. Also test the navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity and all controls.

After starting up, check whether all functions work without error messages and whether the system does not feel sluggish. Software updates are important with Volvo, so ask the seller when the last update was performed. Slow or stuttering electronics point to outdated software or defective components.

Check bodywork and interior for wear

Inspect the wheel arches, doors and bumper corners for parking damage or signs of repair. Also check the underside of the car. Small damages may seem unimportant, but they often point to careless use. They can also lead to hidden rust. Also pay attention to colour differences in the paint. This indicates previous damage and repair.

Inside the car, look for wear on the seat bolsters, screen, controls and upholstery. Check that all buttons and switches function correctly. XC40s used for business often show heavy wear. Take your time to examine everything thoroughly.

Arrange warranty and a pre-purchase inspection

With some dealers you get extra peace of mind. Examples include a 30-day exchange guarantee and a 99-point check. This offers protection against unexpected defects shortly after purchase. Don’t fully trust the history or technical condition of the car? Then a pre-purchase inspection is still a wise move.

A professional inspection costs a few hundred euros. This can save you thousands of euros in repair costs. The inspector checks all major components and gives an objective assessment of the car’s condition. This gives you a stronger negotiating position. It also provides more certainty about your purchase.

Choose the right drivetrain for your use

Do you mainly drive short journeys? Then a petrol or electric XC40 often makes more sense than a diesel. Diesel engines perform best on longer trips. With a lot of city driving they develop problems more quickly. Do you drive lots of motorway miles? Then an efficient diesel or plug-in hybrid is interesting. This depends on your charging options and driving pattern.

If you opt for a plug-in hybrid or fully electric version, consider your charging options. Do you have home charging and mainly drive short distances? In that case driving electric is considerably cheaper than petrol or diesel.

Practical buying tips for a reliable purchase

Always compare several examples. This gives you insight into price differences. You also see the condition of comparable cars. Pay attention to the total costs, including any repairs and maintenance in the short term. A slightly more expensive car with a full history and recent service often turns out cheaper in the end. A cheap example in unclear condition carries greater risks.

Make use of experiences from forums and owners’ communities. This gives you additional insight and helps you decide. Other XC40 owners often share tips on points of attention and common problems. Unsure about the technical condition? Then always have a pre-purchase inspection carried out. You’ll get objective certainty about the condition of the car. This prevents disappointment afterwards.

On the Carnews website you’ll find much more information about specific car problems and maintenance advice. There are also practical tips for different makes and models. Discover more articles and checklists. These will help you choose your next car.

Frequently asked questions