2009 Volvo C30: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 2009 Volvo C30: 2 recalls, 6 owner complaints and up to 23 mpg combined.
.jpg){kind=link}
Recalls
2 vehicle recalls from the manufacturer. Repairs are free. Check your VIN to see if one is still open on your car.
Steering Vehicle recall #08V329000 · 2008 · 1,020 vehicles
What's wrong: A section of the power steering return line hose was not properly vulcanized (cured) and does not meet specifications. If the power steering return hose fails, a sudden rupture of the hose can occur.
Why it matters: This can result in a rapid drainage of the power steering fluid in the system and a complete loss of power assistance, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the steering return line hose assembly free of charge. The recall began on August 13, 2008.
Equipment Vehicle recall #10V566000 · 2010 · 416 vehicles
What's wrong:
Why it matters: An overheated battery could lead to a fire.
The fix: Volvo advises owners to please stop using the garmin portable gps device immediately, and visit the garmin website to determine if their unit is affected. The unit's battery will be replaced with a new battery and a spacer will be inserted on top of the battery next to the pcb. This service will be…
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 0 mention a fire, 0 injuries and 0 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Transmission & drivetrain (2): the most common themes are hard / delayed shifting (2).
- Exterior lights (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Steering (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Tires (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
The 2009 Volvo C30 has 6 owner complaints, ranking #4 of 7 C30 model years for complaints (about average; the typical year has 7). Complaints peaked in 2010 (1 filed that year). The typical problem showed up when the car was about 9 years old, at a median of 99,800 miles. Neighboring years: 2008 (8 complaints, 2 recalls), 2010 (6 complaints, 2 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5 L 5-cyl turbo | Manual 6-spd | Front-Wheel Drive | 19 | 28 | 23 | Regular |
| 2.5 L 5-cyl turbo | Automatic (S5) | Front-Wheel Drive | 19 | 28 | 23 | Regular |
| 2.4 L 5-cyl | Manual 5-spd | Front-Wheel Drive | 20 | 28 | 23 | Regular |
| 2.4 L 5-cyl | Automatic (S5) | Front-Wheel Drive | 20 | 28 | 23 | Regular |
Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the 2009 Volvo C30.
Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.
Most $25–$78, one-timePro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.
From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yrOEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.
From $19.99/mo · $59.99/yrStep-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.
Books ~$30–$40 · AllAccess $34.99/moHeads up: we may earn a commission if you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you. Prices checked 2026-10 and can change. We never host or link to pirated manuals. Disclosure
FAQ
Does the 2009 Volvo C30 have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 2 vehicle recalls for the 2009 Volvo C30. Recall repairs are free at any dealer, no matter how old the car is. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What are the most common 2009 Volvo C30 problems?
Owners have filed 6 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are transmission & drivetrain (2), exterior lights (1), steering (1).
What gas mileage does the 2009 Volvo C30 get?
EPA ratings run up to 23 mpg combined (2.5 L, Manual 6-spd), across 4 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 2009 Volvo C30 repair manual?
eManualOnline sells downloadable manuals, Mitchell 1 DIY and ALLDATAdiy sell online access to factory repair data, and Haynes sells printed guides and online access. Pick a download if you want to keep it, or a subscription for wiring diagrams and TSBs.