2015 Volvo XC60 2.4L Diesel · AF65 XSO

The most recent DVSA MOT test on the 2015 Volvo XC60 was conducted on 2026-05-22, resulting in a passing grade with three advisories that indicate ongoing but manageable wear issues. The overall maintenance trend over the past four years shows a consistent pattern of recurring advisories rather than a marked deterioration, suggesting that while the vehicle has experienced gradual wear progression, it has not yet reached critical failure points. The advisories from the latest test—particularly the near-side front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint with slight play and the near-side and offside front inner tyres worn close to the legal limit—highlight areas where maintenance or replacement may be advisable sooner rather than later. The rear brake pads being worn thin also warrants attention, as this could lead to reduced braking efficiency if not addressed promptly. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 126,268 miles at the time of this assessment represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 11,479 miles per year, which is typical for a 11-year-old model of this class. This level of mileage, while not exceptionally high, indicates moderate to heavy usage over the vehicle’s lifespan, particularly in the past few years given the consistent annual accumulation. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests that the car has been in regular service, which can accelerate wear on consumables such as tyres, brake pads, and suspension components. However, the steady mileage progression does not necessarily imply rapid deterioration—many components in a well-maintained vehicle can tolerate such usage without immediate failure, though closer inspection of wear patterns and fluid condition will be necessary to confirm this. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination are the suspension and tyre systems, given the recurring advisories on ball joints and tyre wear. The anti-roll bar linkage ball joints, which have been flagged with slight play in multiple MOT tests, should be visually checked for signs of excessive wear, corrosion, or binding. Listen for unusual clunking noises during a test drive, particularly when navigating bumps or sharp turns, as this could indicate loose or failing suspension components. The front tyres, worn close to the legal limit, should be examined for uneven wear patterns, which may suggest misalignment, poor suspension alignment, or incorrect tyre pressure. Uneven wear often manifests as one side of the tyre wearing more quickly than the other, or as a distinctive edge wear that can compromise traction and handling. The rear brake pads being worn thin is another priority, as this could lead to reduced braking performance and increased heat buildup on the discs, potentially causing warping or further pitting. Inspect the rear brake discs for signs of pitting, scoring, or excessive thickness reduction, and listen for a grinding noise when applying the brakes, which would confirm that the pads are nearly or fully worn. The advisories on the rear coil springs, which were corroded in the 2025 MOT, should prompt a visual inspection for rust, cracks, or deformation, as corroded springs can compromise the vehicle’s ride quality and handling. If the springs appear compromised, they may need to be replaced to prevent further structural or performance issues. Additionally, check the fluid levels and condition of the brake fluid reservoir, as old or contaminated brake fluid can lead to reduced braking effectiveness. For the tyres, beyond the wear advisories, inspect the sidewall for signs of cracking or perishing, which can occur over time even with moderate usage, particularly in colder climates. Lastly, verify that the vehicle’s service history is up to date, especially for fluid changes such as the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these should be replaced at specified intervals regardless of mileage to maintain optimal performance.