2012 Volvo V60 1.6L Petrol · AE12 HVM

The Volvo V60 holds a valid MOT pass certificate dated 26 February 2026, recorded at 121,006 miles. Despite this pass, the maintenance trend is clearly worsening. The vehicle failed its 23 February 2026 test on five separate items, including a serious nearside front shock absorber fluid leak and negligible damping effect, before being repaired and passing three days later. The tester also flagged slight free play in the steering rack, measuring close to the 13mm allowable limit at the steering wheel rim. This steering rack issue is a recurring defect that has appeared in multiple consecutive tests and remains unresolved even on the current pass certificate. The mileage accumulation is broadly typical for a 2012 vehicle, averaging roughly 8,600 miles per year. However, the record shows a notable gap between February 2024 at 77,070 miles and February 2025 at 96,465 miles, representing an accumulation of nearly 19,400 miles in a single year. This sharp increase suggests a significant change in usage pattern, potentially involving sustained motorway driving or a longer commute, which accelerates wear on suspension bushes, shock absorbers, and steering components. The MOT history itself is sparse, with only five recorded tests across the vehicle's life, and no documented mileage between 2012 and early 2024, leaving a large portion of its service history unaccounted for. A buyer should inspect the front suspension with particular care. The nearside Macpherson strut top bush and shock absorber were flagged as defective in February 2026, and the offside top bush was flagged in February 2025, indicating a pattern of front suspension wear that likely extends to both sides. The steering rack free play, noted as close to the legal limit, warrants investigation into whether the rack itself, inner track rods, or column joints are the source. The rear coil springs were flagged for corrosion in February 2024, and while this did not recur, underbody rust should still be examined given the vehicle's age. The inner steering rack gaiter was missing in February 2026, which, if left unrepaired, would allow dirt ingress and accelerate rack wear. A thorough inspection of gaiters, rack condition, and front suspension bushes is essential before purchase.