'02 1.8 Engine at 3500+ RPM

[pringle_addict]

I've had my 1.8 V40 for a couple of months now and I am very happy with it.

My only slight niggle is the noise of the engine over 3500 rpm.

Under this engine speed, it's all nice and quiet, but once over, there is a quite a noticable increase in noise from the engine.

Is this normal, or is the exhaust blowing slightly, amplifying the noise?

[Liberty555]

Hi

I have a 2002 1.8 V40 as well and can say that over about 3500, there is a lot more noise from the engine.

I tend to stay below those revs if I can, but when I do venture beyond there is a noticeable increase in noise.

[pringle_addict]

Thanks Liberty,

Like, you, I try and stay under 3.5k which seems to be around 75 in 5th. Just wondered if this was a 'characteristic' of the car, or 1st signs of an expensive repair!

[gnhuk]

Assuming it's the Volvo engine - it does get noisy around that level...

[Liberty555]

Yes - mine is the Volvo engined version, not the GDI

I find that when overtaking in 3rd, by the time I'm passed the car, I grab fourth pretty quickly because it sounds like its reaching the redline, but in fact there would be 2000+ rpm to go...

Nature of the beast - thankfully below 3,5k, its smooth and quiet.

[pringle_addict]

Sounds exactly like mine then Liberty.

Shame as most engines enjoy a brief spell at red-line (especially 16 valvers), but I wouldn't feel comfortable at those RPMs in the V40!

Like you say though - beautifully smooth and quiet ride below 3.5k.

Do you get hesitation at low revs when pulling away?

I'm wondering if this is a spark plug issue, as mine was last serviced by a local garage (for local people), so I doubt if it has OE Volvo plugs in it.

Thanks for the feedback Liberty, this has put my mind at ease!

[gnhuk]

You can't over rev it - the limiter cuts in, you'll recognise that when it happens - certainly surprised me but I knew what it was next time.