Volvo C30 (old thread)

Goofy

I am thinking of buying an 07/08 Volvo C30 1.6d. It seems to be a solid, reliable car. Has anyone got any experience with C30s of this age? Any major problems to look out for when test driving etc? The only thing that the website reviews keep picking up on is the lack of room in the back and the boot, but that doesnt really bother me. I could go for the usual Golf, Focus or Astra but I prefer the look of the C30. Any advise?

unkel

I like them. But you do realise the C30 is pretty much the same car as "the usual" Ford Focus, don't you?

bazz26

Its basically a 3 door S40 which uses the Ford Focus platform and running gear. 1.6d is a Peugeot/Citroen/Ford engine and they can give problems if not maintained properly or incorrect grade oil is used. The common problems on them are the turbo blowing and the DPF failing, both not cheap to fix. I had that engine in both a Focus and S40, one never gave a moments trouble, the other I had to replace the DPF.

Also be aware that the C30 is a 4 seater only, interior room is tight and the boot is very small. Main dealers are expensive and some parts which are not shared with the Focus also tend to be expensive. On the plus side like the S40 I had they are very well built and nice to drive, make sure all the electrics work as they can be iffy and make sure the car comes with two keys as a replacment key is close to €200 and a dealer only job afaik.

mailforkev

I posted on a previous thread here:
http://www.boards.ie/vbulletin/showpost.php?p=76473804&postcount=9

Ours is petrol but that diesel engine is used all over the place and is fairly solid as far as I know.

As I said in the older thread, the ABS control module is the only common issue. Same problem with the S40/V50 and C70. I have a full Volvo service history so it was sorted for free, it's around a grand if you have to pay. I'm sure harassing Volvo if it did occur would get you places though as it's a known issue.

Apart from that it's been perfect. Any other questions just ask away.

Ardent

I drove an automatic from Vancouver to Seattle and back. Think it was a 2L diesel. Was a really nice drive, plenty of poke. I wouldn't buy one as interior is quite boring and cramped, but other than that they are a fine car.

Goofy

unkel wrote: »

I like them. But you do realise the C30 is pretty much the same car as "the usual" Ford Focus, don't you?

Yeah, but it looks way better!!

Thanks Guys. Its looking like im gonna go for one. Im only a young fella with no need for any baby seats, so the 3 door/4 seats/ small boot are not issues for me at all.

Im looking for a decent, reliable, economical car but I want it to look better than the mundane silver cars that fill the streets. If I make sure it has a full service history, hopefully there shouldnt be any major issues with it.

unkel

G'luck with the search. Keep us updated

richiek67

Did you ever get the Volvo C30? I want to get one ...What are they like, any problems...?