2013 Volvo V40 1.6L Diesel · AK13 DBO

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, with the most recent MOT on 2025-10-22 confirming a pass at 96,241 miles. The maintenance trend shows a concerning pattern of recurring and worsening issues, particularly in the front suspension and tyre condition. While the latest test only noted a minor issue with the rear direction indicator, the prior failure in October 2024 revealed two tyres near the legal limit and a fractured offside front coil spring—both serious safety concerns that were not addressed before the subsequent pass. This indicates either inconsistent or incomplete repairs, raising questions about the reliability of the suspension system. The mileage accumulation over the past three years is consistent with average use: approximately 7,400 miles per year, with readings of 86,236 (2022), 89,190 (2023), 93,509 (2024), and 96,241 (2025). There are no significant gaps in testing, suggesting regular servicing, though the repeated tyre wear and suspension faults imply that preventative maintenance may have been neglected. The fact that both front tyres were worn to the edge limit in back-to-back tests underscores poor driving habits or misaligned wheels, while the fractured coil spring following a corroded one in 2022 points to long-term degradation of the front suspension components. A buyer should conduct a thorough in-person inspection of the front suspension, focusing on the condition of both coil springs, shock absorbers, and associated bushes for signs of fatigue, corrosion, or binding. The presence of a fractured spring in 2024 demands verification that it has been replaced with a new, correctly rated unit. Brake discs and pads should be checked for uneven wear, especially given the high mileage and history of tyre issues that could indicate alignment problems affecting braking performance. Additionally, the rear tyres showed cracking in 2023, so their structural integrity must be confirmed, as perishing rubber poses a risk of sudden failure. Structural rust should also be examined around the wheel arches and underbody, particularly where the earlier corrosion was recorded.