2004 Volvo S60 2.4L Diesel · KR04 ABF

The most recent MOT on 16 March 2023 recorded a pass, following a pass on 15 March 2022. An anomalous failure entry on the same 2023 date shows no defects, indicating the failure was likely administrative or a re‑test after a brief procedural issue rather than a mechanical fault. With two consecutive successful passes and no recorded defects, the vehicle’s MOT trend appears stable and suggests that any required maintenance has been kept up to date. At 211,000 mi on a 2004 model the average annual mileage works out to roughly 9,600 mi per year, which is broadly typical for a car of this age. The mileage does not point to any periods of intense short‑term use, nor does it suggest long stretches of inactivity that could have led to component seizing. Nevertheless, the cumulative distance means that wear items such as suspension bushings, engine mounts, and drivetrain bearings will have experienced a full service life and should be inspected for fatigue. For a buyer, the first visual check should focus on the tyres: verify tread depth is at least 1.6 mm across the width, look for sidewall cracking, bulges or dry rot that can develop after six years regardless of tread wear. Examine the wheel bearings and steering rack for any play or grinding noises during a low‑speed manoeuvre, and listen for clunks over bumps which may indicate worn suspension bushes or deteriorated coil springs. The braking system warrants particular attention; inspect the discs for surface rust, scoring or uneven wear and test the pedal for a firm, consistent feel without pulsation, which could reveal warped discs or a binding caliper. Since the S60 uses a timing belt, confirm that it was replaced around the 100 000 mi mark and that the service book records the interval; a missed change can risk catastrophic engine damage. Given the vehicle’s age, also check for signs of corrosion on the chassis, under‑body and exhaust, especially around the wheel arches and rear subframe where moisture can accumulate. Test the 12 V battery for voltage and cranking performance, as batteries over six years often lose capacity even if they have been recharged. Finally, verify that all fluids have been refreshed on schedule: engine oil and filter, coolant, brake fluid (which should be changed at least every two years), and power‑steering fluid. Any discolouration, sludge, or leaks are red flags that may require immediate attention before the car is put to regular use.