Types of engine: reliability etc.

[emtor]

Originally Posted by CopthorneMike

I own a 2003 V40 with the GDI engine.

I do see quite a few comments that GDI engines are 'problematic and to be avoided' but to be honest never had any problems with mine.

GDI engines are direct injected so the valves don't get washed with fuel as is the case in engines with injectors located in the intake manifold.
This causes major carbon buildup and negates with time the intention of direct injection which is low fuel consumption, low emissions and increased horsepower. When carbon buildup gets severe, pieces of carbon may come loose and end up in the cat, quickly destroying it.

[martin93]

Originally Posted by V40addict

I am considering buying a 2.0 non turbo P2, it doesn't have the same Renault box as my 1.6L, if the 2.0 P1 (until 2000) had the Renault box does that mean the 2.0 P2 would also accept the gearbox of my 1.6L in case I need to swap ?



Regarding the flywheel failure, what does that mean mechanically and cost wise (assuming you need to go to a repairshop )?

I don't think it would. Firstly, the P1 1.6 and 2.0 had different gear ratios (I think the box in the 1.6 was called the M3P while the 2.0 was an M5P), and secondly the Volvo box is cable operated not rod operated, so it would necessitate changing the gear selector mechanism as well. You'd also have to swap the flywheel.

The dual mass flywheel is basically a two piece flywheel designed to damp vibrations. Very good idea on a diesel, pretty pointless on a petrol. And my short lived P2 2.0 non turbo failed at around 90K miles. Symptoms being vibration coming through the car and a knocking sound which changes or disappears when you push the clutch down. The flywheel costs around £250 to buy in the first place and of course means taking the gearbox out to get to it, so a lot of labour costs involved. Then you should really replace the clutch and slave cylinder while you're in there, so another £400ish on top of that.... That's another thing. On the Volvo box, the release bearing and slave cylinder are all one unit mounted in the bell housing, whereas the Renault has the separate type on the outside of the box. So if you need to replace the Slave cylinder on a Volvo box, it's gearbox out. All in all you'd be looking at well over £1k to change the flywheel and clutch at a garage. A clutch for the Volvo box seems to be a lot more expensive too..