2022 Volvo C40 Ultimate Recharge EV Electricity · CF72 MHO

The most recent DVSA MOT test for the 2022 Volvo C40 Ultimate Recharge EV was conducted on 2025-12-11, resulting in a pass with no recorded defects. However, the vehicle’s previous MOT on 2025-12-08 failed due to a major fault under section 5.2.3(b), specifically the presence of near-side front tyres of differing sizes on the same axle. This failure indicates a critical roadworthiness issue that must be rectified before the vehicle can be legally driven. While the subsequent MOT passed without further issues, the failure history suggests that the vehicle has not been fully compliant with legal standards at some point, which could imply either a lack of attention to basic mechanical checks or a need for more rigorous inspection of wheel alignment and tyre fitting. The fact that the failure was resolved and the vehicle passed again implies that the issue was likely addressed promptly, but buyers should be cautious about the underlying cause—poor wheel alignment or incorrect tyre fitting—potentially leading to uneven tyre wear, reduced handling stability, or premature tyre degradation if not corrected. The recorded mileage of 9,364 miles for a vehicle aged four years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 2,341 miles per annum. This is notably lower than the average annual mileage for a similarly aged electric vehicle, which often exceeds 5,000 miles due to higher demand in urban and commuter traffic. Such low mileage can result from prolonged periods of inactivity, particularly in an electric vehicle where charging infrastructure and owner preferences may limit driving frequency. However, low mileage alone does not guarantee mechanical soundness, as standing vehicles are prone to specific issues such as corrosion in brake systems, caliper binding, or fluid degradation in hydraulic components. Additionally, the absence of significant mileage accumulation means that consumable items like tyres, brakes, and suspension components may not have undergone the same level of wear as vehicles with higher usage, but age-related factors—such as tyre sidewall perishing, battery degradation over time, or potential standing corrosion—remain critical concerns. Given the recent MOT failure related to tyre fitting, the buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s wheel alignment and tyre condition. Uneven tyre wear or differing tyre sizes can indicate misalignment, which may have been the root cause of the failed MOT. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the front wheels, such as clunking or vibration, which could signal misalignment or suspension issues. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, particularly on the near-side front tyres, and verify that all tyres meet legal minimum tread depths and are of identical size and construction. If the issue persists, the vehicle may require a full wheel alignment and tyre fitting correction. Beyond this, inspect the brake system for signs of corrosion or binding calipers, especially since the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. Standby corrosion on brake discs or pads can lead to reduced braking performance or premature failure, so visually inspect these components for rust or excessive wear. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, the buyer should also conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the electric vehicle’s key components. Given the low annual mileage, check for tyre sidewall perishing or cracking, which can compromise structural integrity and safety, particularly on older tyres. Inspect the 12-volt battery for signs of swelling, corrosion on terminals, or reduced charge retention, as electric vehicles are more susceptible to battery degradation over time. Verify that all fluids, including brake fluid, coolant, and power steering fluid, are within the manufacturer’s recommended levels and show no signs of contamination or degradation, as standing fluids can degrade more rapidly. Additionally, since the vehicle has not been driven extensively, check the suspension for signs of standing corrosion on suspension bushes or coil springs, which can lead to premature failure or handling issues. Finally, review the service history for any scheduled maintenance, such as battery health checks or fluid top-ups, to ensure the vehicle remains in optimal condition for its age and usage profile.