The Good
The 2005 Volvo V50 boasts a comfortable ride, stylish Scandinavian design, and a reputation for safety, appealing to emotional buyers. Practically, it offers decent fuel efficiency, especially in the 2.4i, and good cargo space for its class. While reliability can be a mixed bag, well-maintained models offer good value.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2005 Volvo V50 include electrical issues, particularly with the central locking system and power windows. Suspension components, like control arm bushings, can wear out. The T5's turbocharger can be a point of concern with age. Regular maintenance is crucial to mitigate these potential problems.
2005 Volvo V50: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.4i: 2.4-liter Inline-5
- T5: 2.5-liter Turbocharged Inline-5
- Horsepower:
- 2.4i: 168 hp
- T5: 218 hp
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- 2.4i: 22 mpg city / 31 mpg highway
- T5: 20 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- 2.4i: 8.5-9 seconds
- T5: 6.5-7 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing. Very limited if any.
- Trim Level Features:
- 2.4i: Standard features include:
- Power windows and locks
- Air conditioning
- CD player
- Cloth upholstery
- Alloy wheels
- Safety features: ABS, stability control, front and side airbags
- T5: Builds upon the 2.4i with:
- Turbocharged engine
- Sport-tuned suspension
- Upgraded audio system
- Leather upholstery (often optional)
- Available all-wheel drive (AWD)
- 2.4i: Standard features include:
- Common Options (across trims):
- Sunroof
- Leather seats
- Heated seats
- Premium audio system
- Navigation system (less common in 2005)
- Automatic transmission (standard on some trims, optional on others)
2005 Volvo V50 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2005 |
| Make | Volvo |
| Model | V50 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Wagon |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Sweden |
| Manufacturing City | GHENT |
Dimensions
| Doors | 5-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | B5244S4 |
| Engine Size | 2.4L |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2005 Volvo V50 Have?
Recalls for the 2005 Volvo V50 were issued for various reasons, including potential fuel leak issues and problems with the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS). It's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN against recall databases (like the NHTSA website) to ensure all necessary repairs have been performed.
Long-term reliability concerns center around the aforementioned electrical problems and suspension wear. The engine itself is generally robust if properly maintained, but the surrounding components can be problematic. Routine maintenance, including timely oil changes, fluid checks, and addressing issues promptly, is essential to maximizing the lifespan and reliability of a 2005 V50. Pay close attention to any warning lights and address them quickly.
How long will the 2005 Volvo V50 last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern cars. ABS and stability control were standard, enhancing safety. Optional features included fog lights and rain-sensing wipers. There were no advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning or adaptive cruise control available.
Safety was a major selling point for Volvo. Standard safety features included front and side airbags. The 2005 Volvo V50 generally received good crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). While specific ratings vary depending on the test, the V50 consistently performed well in frontal and side-impact crash tests, offering a good level of occupant protection for its class. It's important to research the specific ratings from both agencies for the 2005 model year to get a complete picture of its crashworthiness.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2005 Volvo V50 Prices and Market Value
The V50 has depreciated significantly due to its age and the availability of newer models. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition, maintenance history, and trim level. T5 models, especially those with AWD and in good condition, tend to hold their value slightly better. Low mileage and a documented maintenance history will command a premium.
2005 Volvo V50 Cost of Ownership
2005 Volvo V50 Fuel Efficiency
2005 Volvo V50 Safety Rating
NHTSA
2005 Volvo V50 Recalls & Defects
Fuel System, Gasoline
Equipment:electrical:navigational System(Global Positioning System)
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
2005 Volvo V50 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2005 Volvo V50 Compare to Other Wagon?
Feature-wise, the V50 offered a comparable set of standard and optional equipment, but its infotainment lagged behind some competitors. Reliability is a mixed bag; the V50 can be less reliable than the Mazda3 or Honda Civic, but more reliable than some contemporary European cars. Prices are comparable in the used market, but repair costs for the Volvo can be higher.
Alternatives to the V50 include the Mazda3 hatchback (sportier and generally more reliable), the Volkswagen Jetta Wagon (similar European feel, potentially better fuel economy), and the Subaru Impreza (standard all-wheel drive). If reliability is a top priority, the Mazda3 or Honda Civic are better choices. If you want a balance of practicality, style, and performance, the V50 is a reasonable choice if a pre-purchase inspection reveals a well-maintained example.
Ranks #1961 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1961 | 2005 Volvo V50 | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2005 Volvo V50 a Good Wagon?
Tamara on June 12, 2022
Awesome Vehicle!!!Found this well maintained single owner 2005 V50 Sport two months ago at a great price and I love it. Ive been searching for a car that fit my lifestyle that was safe, comfortable, economical and with all the extras still working like a sunroof and power accessories. This car meets and exceeds the demands for a pre-owned Volvo through a dealership but was purchased from the original owner. I bought it to replace my 2004 XC70 after it was rear ended by a driver texting and will be used mainly for quick errand trips around town and short weekend trips to the mountains. What I like about this car is it's a compact wagon that has almost as much room as the XC70 and does not sacrifice style, comfort or features for it's size. The V50 gets a little better gas mileage than the XC70 with an average 23 street and 33 highway. A fill up of a little over 15 gallons of gas gives me an expected 400 miles to the tank. I love the floating console with a little cubby behind it that's a great place to store your phone while driving. The interior layout, dash, doors and leather seats are the exact same as my Son's 2006 S40 T5. This model is FWD and handles corners great with a smooth ride over bumps. Just because it's small and compact doesn't mean it lacks in delivery of other areas. The V50 still has all the attention to detail you can expect from Volvo like a working directional compass in the rearview mirror. It's roomy enough for lots of groceries or for a quick weekend getaway for two along with luggage, medium size cooler and the dog in the backseat. I like the cargo area grocery sack holders and pull over tonneau cover that shields and hides my packages from the sun along with the extra room from a fold down backseat. Also, there's a seperate backseat charging port with a mini console that opens from the backside of the seat with cup holders where a car seat could be secured in the middle. I am short at 5'4" and it's easy for me to get in and out of the front after hip surgery last year. This car fits my small statue perfectly and accommodates my Husband's tall 6'4" frame comfortably in the driver's or passenger side as well. The cost for tags taxes and insurance are really affordable on this age Volvo. My car has no prior accidents, was well maintained and came with the original window sticker and Owners Manual. Window sticker cost was $29,993.00. I feel like I stole it for less than one tenth of it's original price with 162k miles on it. The only things I don't like about it is the front seat cup holders are not deep enough to secure a larger sized bottle of water from flipping and there is no Bluetooth.
Cliffy on October 12, 2019
Very reliable, clean n very dependable.Car has numerous new parts. It is roomy with good electronic n sound system. Affords one with an opportunity for pleasurable and easygoing driving. Affords real fun, reliable n satisfying driving in most circumstances.
Lizzie on December 6, 2018
Second Volvo and will not get anything elseThe car lasted me 13 years, and the first ten were effortless. I didn't have any excessive maintenance or repairs, and the car never gave me trouble. Extremely reliable. Just wish I had more features inside but that was based on the trim, rather than the car's design.
Trish on July 11, 2017
Very reliable carThis car is extremely safe and fun to drive . It's a reliable car . 12 years old and still looks and drive like new .
TheBanker on May 7, 2017
The perfect college carThe Volvo V50 offers an extremely competitive blend of comfort, safety, and practicality. Based on the Ford Focus, it also has a world reknown chassis and great composure.
Captain Organic on April 25, 2017
The wait was worth it...SUPER SOLID!!!I have been looking and following these kinda hard to find models for over a year. I was hoping to get an AWD model but this low mile 2005 came along at a reasonable price. Feels super solid and handles like a dream. I had a 99' V70 Cross Country a few years back and this is slightly smaller. Since then the V70 has become more of an SUV. This will get better MPG (26+) since its just FWD, although it is a turbo version and really can GO if u need to...leather and sunroof are nice as well. Need to get blutooth
Raphael on April 20, 2017
Don't know about reliability yet.My only complaint is the Yokahama YK580 tires, which do terrible in snow, even worse in slush and, to top it all off, in dry weather the sidewalls tend to roll on fast corners. I will replace them as soon as I recover from the car's purchase price.
Delivery Dan on January 16, 2011
Volvo V50I am an owner of a V50 in the Southeast. I drive approximately 20,000 miles a year delivering medical supplies to facilities throughout the area. I bought a V50 in 2006 and love it. It is fun to drive and economical to own. Basic maintenance is all it needs. I would recommend this car to anyone I know.
VolvoLvr on November 3, 2010
Great Car!I have been very pleased with this car. It handles wonderfully and has plenty of power. Lots of luxury features in a reasonably priced vehicle.
Tamara on June 12, 2022
Awesome Vehicle!!!Found this well maintained single owner 2005 V50 Sport two months ago at a great price and I love it. Ive been searching for a car that fit my lifestyle that was safe, comfortable, economical and with all the extras still working like a sunroof and power accessories. This car meets and exceeds the demands for a pre-owned Volvo through a dealership but was purchased from the original owner. I bought it to replace my 2004 XC70 after it was rear ended by a driver texting and will be used mainly for quick errand trips around town and short weekend trips to the mountains. What I like about this car is it's a compact wagon that has almost as much room as the XC70 and does not sacrifice style, comfort or features for it's size. The V50 gets a little better gas mileage than the XC70 with an average 23 street and 33 highway. A fill up of a little over 15 gallons of gas gives me an expected 400 miles to the tank. I love the floating console with a little cubby behind it that's a great place to store your phone while driving. The interior layout, dash, doors and leather seats are the exact same as my Son's 2006 S40 T5. This model is FWD and handles corners great with a smooth ride over bumps. Just because it's small and compact doesn't mean it lacks in delivery of other areas. The V50 still has all the attention to detail you can expect from Volvo like a working directional compass in the rearview mirror. It's roomy enough for lots of groceries or for a quick weekend getaway for two along with luggage, medium size cooler and the dog in the backseat. I like the cargo area grocery sack holders and pull over tonneau cover that shields and hides my packages from the sun along with the extra room from a fold down backseat. Also, there's a seperate backseat charging port with a mini console that opens from the backside of the seat with cup holders where a car seat could be secured in the middle. I am short at 5'4" and it's easy for me to get in and out of the front after hip surgery last year. This car fits my small statue perfectly and accommodates my Husband's tall 6'4" frame comfortably in the driver's or passenger side as well. The cost for tags taxes and insurance are really affordable on this age Volvo. My car has no prior accidents, was well maintained and came with the original window sticker and Owners Manual. Window sticker cost was $29,993.00. I feel like I stole it for less than one tenth of it's original price with 162k miles on it. The only things I don't like about it is the front seat cup holders are not deep enough to secure a larger sized bottle of water from flipping and there is no Bluetooth.