2021 Volvo XC40 1.5L Petrol · FH70 GDO
2021 Volvo XC40 (1.5L, petrol). First registered 17 Feb 2021. Recorded mileage 37,449 miles. MOT valid until 16 Feb 2027. Taxed until 01 Jul 2027.
- Make & Model
- VOLVO XC40
- Year / Origin
- 2021 · Nottingham
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 16 Feb 2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Jul 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 37,449 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- ULEZ Compliant (Euro 6)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.5L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
FH70 GDO Key Findings
- 4 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 10/02/2026
- 37,449 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 1 defect noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (4 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
FH70 GDO MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
4 MOT tests are recorded for this 2021 Volvo Xc40 (FH70 GDO) between February 2024 and February 2026.
The record contains 3 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 10 February 2026 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Brakes (4 issues), Tyres (2 issues), Lighting (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 6 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
FH70 GDO Mileage History
- 09/02/202426,096 mi
- 17/01/202531,721 mi+5,625 mi
- 10/02/202637,449 mi+5,728 mi
- 10/02/202637,449 mi
Average of roughly 5,667 miles per year across 4 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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Known faults for Volvo XC40
Our database tracks 3 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Excellent
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
This Volvo XC40 is a solid prospect with
When inspecting this XC40, pay close attention to the braking system. The 2025 and 2026 MOT records highlight thinning pads and worn discs, suggesting that the vehicle is currently in a cycle of heavy brake usage. Ensure you check the service history for evidence of these components being replaced, as the MOT advisories indicate they are reaching the end of their functional life.
Beyond the brakes, ensure that all electrical systems are fully operational, as 'engine MIL inoperative' is a common failure point for the XC40 model range. Since the vehicle has been driven over 37,000 miles, verify that the suspension feels stable during a test drive, as higher-mileage examples can sometimes show signs of wear in the bushings.
As a 1.5-litre petrol model, the XC40 sits in a moderate insurance group and tax bracket typical for premium compact SUVs. Fuel economy will vary significantly based on your driving style, but you should budget for the costs associated with premium vehicle maintenance, which can be higher than mass-market hatchbacks.
Annual running costs, including fuel, insurance, road tax, and routine servicing, are estimated at £1,600–£2,000. Be prepared for higher-than-average expenditure on tyres and brake components, as these are frequent wear items for this specific model based on aggregate MOT data.
Prioritise a thorough check of the front brake discs and pads, as these have been flagged as 'worn' or 'thin' in consecutive MOT tests. You should also verify that the headlamp alignment has been professionally corrected since the February 2026 failure, as improper aim can affect night-time visibility and safety.
Check the condition of all four tyres carefully. The 2025 MOT noted uneven wear on the front tyres, which may indicate a tracking or alignment issue. Ensure the tyres currently fitted have even tread depth across the surface and that the sidewalls are free from damage or cracking.
Registered in February 2021, this blue Volvo XC40 has covered 37,449 miles, which is slightly above the national average for its age. The MOT history shows a consistent record of usage, with a recent failure in February 2026 due to headlamp alignment and ongoing advisories regarding brake wear. Overall, the vehicle has passed all its annual tests, demonstrating that it meets current safety standards.
The Volvo XC40 generally performs well in MOT testing, with a pass rate that aligns with industry expectations for premium SUVs.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
Common Problems: VOLVO XC40
Known issues reported by owners and MOT testers.
- Infotainment Freezing and Software Glitches(Moderate)
Earlier cars with Sensus and 2022+ models with Google-based Android Automotive can suffer from screen freezes, blackouts, or lost GPS/connectivity.
- 12V Battery Drain and Start-Stop Faults(Moderate)
Battery-management and software issues can flatten the auxiliary or main 12V battery, causing stop-start failure and low-voltage warnings.
- Powered Tailgate Strut and Rear-End Hardware Issues(Moderate)
The power tailgate on earlier XC40s can corrode, strain or stop closing properly, especially on cars living outdoors through salted winters.
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VOLVO XC40 Model Intelligence & Reliability
Verified MOT failure trends, buying advice, and technical directory specifications.
Owner-reported defects, recurring MOT failure points, and estimated repair costs.
Browse production generations, registration statistics, and trim variants.
Historical MOT pass rates and DVLA records for 2021 model year cars.
- Infotainment Freezing and Software GlitchesModerate
Earlier cars with Sensus and 2022+ models with Google-based Android Automotive can suffer from screen freezes, blackouts, or lost GPS/connectivity.
- 12V Battery Drain and Start-Stop FaultsModerate
Battery-management and software issues can flatten the auxiliary or main 12V battery, causing stop-start failure and low-voltage warnings.
- Powered Tailgate Strut and Rear-End Hardware IssuesModerate
The power tailgate on earlier XC40s can corrode, strain or stop closing properly, especially on cars living outdoors through salted winters.
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