2018 Volvo XC90 2.0L Petrol · EU68 FNK

The latest DVSA MOT test for the 2018 Volvo XC90 was conducted on 2026-05-22 and resulted in a passing grade, though it included several advisories that warrant careful consideration. While the vehicle has not failed an MOT since 2023-01-30, the pattern of recurring advisories—particularly around the rear tyres, shock absorbers, and registration plate—suggests a maintenance trend that has not been fully resolved. The repeated warnings about tyre wear, especially the 2023-07-13 failure where the offside rear tyre exhibited a deep cut reaching the ply or cords, indicate ongoing or unresolved issues with tyre management and potential underlying suspension or alignment problems. The presence of light misting in the near-side rear shock absorbers also suggests wear that may progress if not addressed, as misting can lead to reduced damping effectiveness and premature failure of the damper seals. The recorded mileage of 98,981 miles for an eight-year-old vehicle represents a high annual usage rate of approximately 12,373 miles per year, which is notably elevated for its age. Such mileage accumulation typically accelerates wear on critical components like brakes, tyres, suspension, and drivetrain elements, as these systems are subjected to greater stress over time. The absence of significant mileage gaps—suggesting either consistent heavy use or a lack of prolonged periods of inactivity—may also contribute to the observed wear patterns. For instance, the repeated tyre advisories, including the severe cut failure, imply either aggressive driving habits, poor alignment, or inadequate tyre rotation or replacement schedules. Additionally, the high mileage could exacerbate issues such as brake pad and rotor wear, suspension bush degradation, and potential drivetrain component fatigue. Given the recurring advisories and high mileage, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough mechanical inspection before purchase. Focus on the rear tyres, particularly the offside rear, as the deep cut failure highlights the need for immediate replacement—tyres with exposed cords are unsafe and should not be retained. During a test drive, listen for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may indicate misalignment or suspension issues, and check for excessive play or clunking noises from the rear suspension, particularly when cornering or over bumps. The near-side rear shock absorbers showing light misting suggest they may be nearing end-of-life; inspect for signs of oil leaks from the damper seals, which could indicate failing seals or internal component wear. Additionally, verify that the vehicle’s brake system is functioning correctly, as high mileage often correlates with increased brake pad and rotor wear, potentially leading to binding calipers or corrosion on the discs. For fluid systems, the buyer should check the condition of the engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant, as high mileage can accelerate fluid degradation over time. Given the vehicle’s age and usage, a comprehensive service history check is essential, particularly for the suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components, which may require replacement or refurbishment. Pay particular attention to the brake system for signs of corrosion on the discs or binding calipers, which can occur from prolonged standing or heavy use. Lastly, inspect the registration plate for any further deterioration, as this is a minor but persistent advisory, and ensure it is securely mounted and legible. If the vehicle has been driven at a high mileage rate, consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic to assess the full extent of wear and identify any hidden issues that may not be apparent from the MOT records alone.