2012 Volvo V60 2.4L Diesel · AF12 VGK

The most recent MOT inspection for this Volvo V60 on 28 October 2025 resulted in a pass, but the record reveals a concerning trend regarding braking system maintenance. The vehicle previously suffered a dangerous failure in late 2025 due to near-side rear brake pads being worn down to the metal, and while the immediate safety issue was rectified, the subsequent pass still carries multiple advisories for worn front brake discs and pads. The maintenance profile appears reactive rather than preventative, as evidenced by the recurring advisories for chafed brake hoses and deteriorating braking components that have appeared in multiple consecutive tests. This suggests that while the vehicle is being kept roadworthy, critical wear items are being allowed to reach the limits of their service life before intervention occurs. With a recorded mileage of 142,456 over approximately 14 years, the vehicle has covered an average of roughly 10,175 miles per year. This represents typical, moderate usage for a diesel-era estate car of this age and suggests a consistent driving pattern rather than extreme long-distance motorway commuting or short, infrequent urban trips. Mechanically, this level of mileage is consistent with the observed wear on consumables such as suspension bushes and braking hardware. However, the buyer should be aware that at this stage of its lifecycle, components such as the turbocharger, fuel injectors, and various rubber seals may be approaching the end of their reliable service life, regardless of the steady mileage accumulation. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the braking system and suspension during a test drive. The recurring advisories for front brake discs and pads indicate that a full front brake overhaul is likely imminent; listen for any grinding noises during deceleration or a pulsating sensation through the brake pedal, which would indicate warped or excessively thin discs. The chafed brake hoses noted in recent tests are a significant concern, as degraded rubber can lead to sudden hydraulic failure; check for any bulging or weeping around the connections. Furthermore, the advisory regarding the near-side rear trailing arm bush suggests impending suspension issues. During the test drive, listen for dull thuds or clunks when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, which would indicate that the bush has lost its structural integrity and is allowing excessive movement in the rear suspension assembly. Beyond the recorded defects, the vehicle's age necessitates a thorough inspection of age-related degradation. Given the previous advisories for perished auxiliary belts and cracking tyres, you should physically inspect all rubber components, including the serpentine belt and tyre sidewalls, for signs of perishing or fine cracking caused by ozone exposure and age. Check the tyre tread patterns for uneven wear, particularly on the inside edges, which could indicate underlying alignment issues or worn suspension geometry. Finally, verify the service history to ensure that fluid changes, specifically engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid, have been performed on a calendar basis rather than solely on mileage, as these fluids degrade over time even if the vehicle is driven moderately.