V40 D2 buying, what to look out for

[OGR4M]

Good afternoon all!

Mrs O is finally chopping in her first car, and has decided on a V40. The D2 is looking like a good choice and ticks the most boxes with our shortlist, but it seems they’re not without their problems.

What are the major things to look out for? At the moment we’re open to both 1.6 and 2.0 versions, we’re simply balancing age, mileage, and spec in our budget. I’ve seen that some have head gasket issues, but other than that I haven’t found any common problems which worry me too much.

Answers on a postcard please, anything I should be wary of when I’m tyre-kicking on her behalf. Thanks much!

[irish boy]

The 1.6 is a psa unit. You'll get a lot of people telling you to avoid it but realistically its a good little engine, plenty of puff and yes it has the odd problem but its in so many cars across various brands that the issues are well known and parts are plentiful.

The 2.0 is also decent provided its been serviced. The common problem seems to be the egr valve. Neighbour of mine gave up and got it removed/blanked but still has a random misfire. Other than that its a strong engine.

[Red9zero]

Folding mirrors can be a problem, but I kept mine lubed up and they were fine. The only fault it had was a brake sensor that kept failing, despite using genuine parts every time. Excellent car otherwise though.

[LTEcactus]

Avoid the 1.6 unit if possible, quite a few people have had issues with that engine and head gaskets.

Get the D3 if possible, it's slightly thirstier but is more reliable and has more go. Bonus if you get the 5 cylinder version.

[Red9zero]

LTEcactus said:

Avoid the 1.6 unit if possible, quite a few people have had issues with that engine and head gaskets.

Get the D3 if possible, it's slightly thirstier but is more reliable and has more go. Bonus if you get the 5 cylinder version.

I had the 5 cyl D3 and it was surprisingly quick. Sadly not CAZ compliant though.

[E-bmw]

Buyer of 1.6 d2 2015 R design here and can say that it is an excellent car, has proven 100% reliable to 110k with just money spent on what I would call "consumables" and servicing.

Normally does around 600m/tank and the seats are superb.

Just be careful as many are advertised as having cruise & limiter, but not all have cruise control.

My only other advice would be to be 100% sure of "infotainment" spec as they ARE NOT UPGRADABLE, this caught me out with previous v50.

[OGR4M]

Thanks for the info, everyone - it seems SWMBO has found the best spec for budget. It’s a 1.6, but with reasonable miles and all the spec she wants (heated seats and screen, mainly…)

No doubt a 10-year-old semi-budget car will throw some problems in the future, we’re planning on keeping it for a while, but at least we know it’s in theory a reliable unit.

I’ve had 2 jags and an Alfa, so I’m no stranger to a problem!

Thanks again, PH knowledge much appreciated!

[Alltrack]

I’ve had a 1.6 D2 for 5 years and 50000 miles.
No unexpected bills at all.

Free Road tax as well.