2021 Volvo XC90 Inscrp PRO T8RCHRGE AWD A 2.0L Hybrid electric (clean) · AF71 OAD

The most recent DVSA MOT test, conducted on 2026-09-01, has not been recorded in the provided history, but the preceding tests reveal a concerning pattern. The vehicle failed its MOT in September 2024 with three major defects—all involving nearside and offside rear tyres exhibiting deep cuts that compromised the ply or cords, a failure under DVSA Standard 5.2.3(d)(i). Although the vehicle passed MOTs in September 2024 and September 2025, the presence of such severe tyre damage in 2024 suggests either inadequate prior maintenance or neglectful driving practices, potentially leading to further wear or structural compromise in other components. The absence of subsequent failures in the intervening period does not mitigate the risk; the tyre defects indicate a failure to address fundamental road safety issues, which could recur or escalate if not properly managed. The recorded mileage of 45,240 miles for a 2021 model year represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 9,048 miles per year, aligning with typical driving patterns for this age group. However, the gap between the 2024 failure and the 2025 pass—around 12 months—could imply either a period of reduced usage or a delay in addressing the tyre defects, which may have allowed minor secondary issues to develop. While 45,240 miles is not excessively high for a five-year-old vehicle, the severity of the tyre failures suggests that the driver or owner may have encountered challenging driving conditions, such as potholes, debris, or aggressive cornering, that exacerbated wear. This could also imply that other suspension or wheel components may be under increased stress, warranting closer inspection for signs of premature wear or damage. Given the history of severe tyre defects, the prospective buyer must prioritise immediate action to mitigate further risk. The cuts to the tyre cords are critical failures that compromise the tyre’s structural integrity, increasing the likelihood of sudden blowouts or reduced handling stability. On a test drive, listen for unusual tyre noise or vibrations, and visually inspect the tyres for any signs of uneven wear, bulges, or excessive heat damage. The buyer should also verify that all wheels are correctly aligned and that the suspension components, particularly the coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes, are functioning without excessive clunking or binding, as these may contribute to uneven tyre wear. If the tyre defects are confirmed as the result of prior neglect, the buyer should consider replacing the affected tyres immediately, ideally with new or high-quality reclaimed tyres that meet or exceed the original specifications to ensure safety. Beyond the tyre issues, the buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle’s standing condition, as prolonged periods without use can accelerate corrosion and fluid degradation. Check the brake system for signs of corrosion on the discs or binding calipers, which may indicate standing corrosion that compromises braking performance. Inspect the 12-volt battery for signs of age-related failure, such as corrosion on terminals or reduced cold-cranking amps, as a failing battery can lead to electrical system malfunctions or poor starting. The engine oil and transmission fluid should be checked for their calendar-based service intervals, typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every two years, whichever comes first, to prevent internal wear or fluid breakdown. Additionally, verify that the service book or maintenance records have been updated, as the absence of service history may indicate gaps in routine maintenance that could have prevented the tyre failures or other potential issues. If the vehicle has been driven regularly, focus on the wear progression of consumables like brake pads, filters, and fluids, ensuring they are within safe operational limits.