2012 Volvo V40 1.6L Diesel · AD12 AZX
2012 Volvo V40 (1.6L, diesel). First registered 31 Jul 2012. Recorded mileage 85,745 miles. MOT expired on 07 Jul 2026. Currently declared SORN.
- Make & Model
- VOLVO V40
- Year / Origin
- 2012 · Peterborough
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 07 Jul 2026
- Road Tax
- SORN
- Recorded Mileage
- 85,745 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- Diesel · 1.6L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
AI-generated interpretation of this vehicle’s MOT record — not an official statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
AD12 AZX Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 09/07/2025
- 85,745 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 1 defect noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring tyres items (4 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
AD12 AZX MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2012 Volvo V40 (AD12 AZX) between June 2023 and July 2025.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 09 July 2025 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Tyres (4 issues), Brakes (2 issues), Windscreen (1 issue), Suspension (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 4 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Recorded failure items include: “Offside Rear Shock absorbers has a serious fluid leak (5.3.2 (b))”; “Front Service brake imbalanced across an axle (1.2.1 (b) (i))”; “Nearside Front Service brake excessively binding (1.2.1 (f))”.
AD12 AZX Mileage History
- 29/06/202368,514 mi
- 09/05/202478,082 mi+9,568 mi
- 09/05/202478,084 mi+2 mi
- 08/07/202585,745 mi+7,661 mi
- 09/07/202585,745 mi
Average of roughly 8,491 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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Known faults for Volvo V40
Our database tracks 5 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
This Volvo V40 presents a relatively stable MOT profile for its age. While it has experienced recent failures, the most recent test shows no defects, suggesting immediate issues have been addressed.
When inspecting this specific 2012 diesel model, prioritize checking the service history for oil changes, as the 1.6L engine requires consistent maintenance. Since the MOT history shows failures in 2024 and 2025 that were resolved quickly, ask the seller for the specific details of what caused those failures to ensure they were not related to recurring mechanical issues.
Negotiate based on the fact that while the recent MOT passed, the vehicle has a history of needing repairs to pass its annual inspections. Check the condition of the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and the timing belt, as these are critical maintenance items for this engine type that often coincide with this mileage bracket.
As a 1560cc diesel, this V40 is designed for efficiency, likely sitting in a moderate insurance group and offering decent fuel economy for long-distance driving. Tax bands for 2012 diesel models vary depending on CO2 emissions, so verify the exact rate for this specific registration.
Maintenance costs for Volvo components can be higher than for mainstream economy brands, but the 1.6L engine is a common unit. Expect typical diesel maintenance costs, including periodic filter changes and potential emissions-related repairs as the car ages.
Given the MOT failures recorded in May 2024 and July 2025, you should specifically inspect the braking system, tyres, and suspension components, as these are common reasons for MOT failures that do not always list specific parts in summary data. Although the 2025 test passed with no defects, the previous failure at the same mileage suggests a component required attention.
Check the underside of the grey bodywork for signs of corrosion and ensure the diesel engine runs smoothly without excessive vibration. Because the mileage is approaching 90,000, inspect the drive belts and look for any signs of fluid leaks around the engine bay.
Registered in July 2012, this grey 1.6L diesel V40 has covered 85,745 miles as of its last test in July 2025. The MOT history shows a pattern of failures immediately preceding passes in both 2024 and 2025, though no specific defect types were recorded in the data. The mileage is consistent with a vehicle used for regular road trips or commuting over a 14-year period.
No aggregate MOT data is available for the Volvo V40 to provide a statistical reliability comparison.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
Common Problems: VOLVO V40
Known issues reported by owners and MOT testers.
- Air conditioning compressor failure(Moderate)
Compressors can seize or stop cooling properly, and in the worst cases the auxiliary belt can be affected too.
- Snapped rear coil springs(Moderate)
The V40 is known for snapping its rear coil springs, often discovered during MOT tests or as a metallic clinking sound over bumps.
- Water ingress around windscreen and scuttle(Moderate)
Poor sealing can let water into the passenger footwell and eventually upset electrical modules or create persistent misting.
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VOLVO V40 Model Intelligence & Reliability
Verified MOT failure trends, buying advice, and technical directory specifications.
Owner-reported defects, recurring MOT failure points, and estimated repair costs.
Browse production generations, registration statistics, and trim variants.
Historical MOT pass rates and DVLA records for 2012 model year cars.
- Air conditioning compressor failureModerate
Compressors can seize or stop cooling properly, and in the worst cases the auxiliary belt can be affected too.
- Snapped rear coil springsModerate
The V40 is known for snapping its rear coil springs, often discovered during MOT tests or as a metallic clinking sound over bumps.
- Water ingress around windscreen and scuttleModerate
Poor sealing can let water into the passenger footwell and eventually upset electrical modules or create persistent misting.
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