In the past, Volvo gained fame with large, safe and comfortable models. In the past, only the Volvo 480 was sold in the compact segment. With the introduction of the Volvo C30 in 2006, the Volvo again with a compact model. The Volvo C30 is strikingly styled and good to drive. This is because it shares many parts with the well steering Ford Focus. The Volvo C30 sold reasonably well in Holland, but could not compete with for example the Ford Focus. Golf 6. This is probably partly due to the lack of a 5-door variant. This is a shame, because the C30 has a lot to offer, not least excellent safety levels, good build quality and most models are also well equipped. The C30 also came with some excellent engines, from mild to wild. However, the small boot, limited rear legroom and lack of availability of a five-door option made the C30 a serious option for not everyone. Because of these drawbacks, today you can buy a Volvo C30 for relatively little money. Of course, every car has some common problems, and the Volvo C30 is no exception. Below are the most common problems with the Volvo C30.
Problems Volvo C30
- Wind noise of some early cars can be a problem, mostly due to the design of the wing mirror; it can be solved.
- Air conditioning stops working when the condenser fails, although system leaks are not uncommon either.
- Large rims on sporty C30s easily get kerb damage. This is due to the cluttered body.
- The focus is on style rather than practicality; the C30 cannot carry more than four people, as there is no fifth seat.
- Door cladding panels can squeak or creak, solving this can be a time-consuming task.
- If you drive in the dark a lot, it is worth buying a car with xenon lights, as the standard lights are not that good.
- Windshields are prone to chipping and cracking; check if they have already been renewed.
- The 1.6 diesel engines, are not bad but always need new oil according to the maintenance schedule. Check this, otherwise the turbo may fail sooner than you expect.
- Most models are equipped with a timing beltCheck whether it has been replaced.
- We find the 1.6 petrol engine too light for this Volvo, the 1.8 is fine.
Pluses and minuses of this compact Volvo
As you would expect from a Volvo, the safety level is extremely good. The NCAP gave this car 5 stars and scored the maximum in many areas. In addition, the build quality is simply good, which keeps the Volvo looking good as it ages. The engine range is good, with our preference going to the 1.8 petrol and the 2.0 diesel. These are nicely balanced engines with sufficient power and are also relatively fuel efficient. The small boot space and the lack of a 5-door may be a reason for people to ignore this nice Volvo. This is also reflected in the purchase price, which is interesting on the occasion market.
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