Lynk & Co 01 I (2017 – 2021)

Reliability score : 8.0/10

The first-generation Lynk & Co 01 (phase 1) is a premium compact SUV, the result of a joint venture between Geely and Volvo. Based on the excellent CMA modular platform (shared with the Volvo XC40), it benefits directly from Swedish engineering for its engines, running gear, and passive safety. Initially launched in China in 2017 with 100% internal combustion engines (petrol), it only arrived in Europe at the end of its cycle (2020/2021), mainly in hybrid (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) forms via an innovative subscription model. It is a heavy, very well-equipped vehicle, whose mechanical reliability is generally excellent thanks to its Volvo DNA, but which suffered from numerous software bugs (infotainment, connectivity) in its early years of production.

✅ Strengths

⚠️ Weaknesses

🎯 Verdict

The Lynk & Co 01 (2017-2021) is an excellent SUV from a mechanical standpoint, taking full advantage of the Volvo parts bin. If you are looking for a pure petrol version (import or Asian market), the 2.0T 4-cylinder is by far the most refined, reliable choice and suited to the vehicle's substantial weight. The 1.5T (3-cylinder) is decent but lacks vibrational refinement. For European models (mainly PHEV), the mechanics are solid, but the user experience has often been spoiled by temperamental onboard electronics. A recommendable purchase, provided you opt for a model with a perfectly up-to-date software history and a serviced DCT gearbox.

Common issues

Dysfonctionnements du système d'infodivertissement (écran figé, lenteur) Low
🔧 Dès le début, souvent résolu par mises à jour logicielles
💶 100 – 300 € (hors garantie, pour diagnostic/mise à jour)
Vérifier l'historique des mises à jour logicielles et la réactivité du système.
Problèmes électriques mineurs ou capteurs défaillants (ex: capteurs de stationnement) Low
🔧 40 000 – 80 000 km
💶 150 – 400 € (selon le capteur ou le diagnostic)
S'assurer que tous les systèmes d'assistance et capteurs fonctionnent correctement.
Moteur 1.5L (B3154T) : Ralenti irrégulier ou légers ratés d'allumage occasionnels faible à moyenne
🔧 50 000 – 100 000 km
💶 200 – 600 € (bougies, bobines, capteurs, mise à jour logicielle)
Écouter attentivement le moteur au ralenti et vérifier l'historique d'entretien.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change £90 – 160
Timing chain £1 000 – 2 000 (si remplacement nécessaire, rare)
Complete brakes £350 – 650
Estimated annual budget £700 – 1 300

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.