2009 Volvo V50: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 2009 Volvo V50: 3 recalls, 2 owner complaints and up to 24 mpg combined.

Recalls
3 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…
Seats Vehicle recall #10V591000 · 2010 · 7,420 vehicles
What's wrong: The front seat rail's detection system was manufactured incorrectly and May permit the passenger to forward the seat beyond the intended maximum.
Why it matters: Positioning of the seat beyond the intended maximum can cause increased risk of injury to the passenger in the event of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will inspect the front power seat stops for both front seats for the presence of an "end stop" and repair the vehicles as necessary free of charge. The safety recall began on December 23, 2010.
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
- Body & structure (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Electrical (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Brakes (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
The 2009 Volvo V50 has 2 owner complaints, ranking #4 of 8 V50 model years for complaints (well below the 5 average). Neighboring years: 2008 (0 complaints, 3 recalls), 2010 (2 complaints, 3 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.4 L 5-cyl | Automatic (S5) | Front-Wheel Drive | 20 | 31 | 24 | Regular |
| 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 |
| 2.5 L 5-cyl turbo | Automatic (S5) | 4-Wheel or All-Wheel Drive | 18 | 26 | 21 | Regular |
| 2.5 L 5-cyl turbo | Manual 6-spd | 4-Wheel or All-Wheel Drive | 17 | 25 | 20 | 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 V50.
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.
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FAQ
Does the 2009 Volvo V50 have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 3 vehicle recalls for the 2009 Volvo V50. 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 V50 problems?
Owners have filed 2 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are body & structure (1), electrical (1), brakes (1).
What gas mileage does the 2009 Volvo V50 get?
EPA ratings run up to 24 mpg combined (2.4 L, Automatic (S5)), across 6 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 2009 Volvo V50 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.