2018 Volvo XC90 2.0L Diesel · H1 LSO

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, though the maintenance trend indicates a transition from pristine condition to emerging mechanical wear. While the car passed four consecutive tests without any defects, the most recent inspection in October 2025 at 85,725 miles identified play in both the nearside and offside front lower suspension arm ball joints. This marks the first sign of degradation in the suspension assembly after a long period of clean-running MOT records. The mileage accumulation is consistent with typical UK usage for a luxury SUV, averaging approximately 10,700 miles per year. Between the 2021 test at 29,226 miles and the 2024 test at 73,405 miles, the vehicle covered 44,179 miles, showing steady operational patterns. The jump of 12,320 miles recorded between the 2024 and 2025 tests aligns with this annual average, explaining why rubber components and suspension joints are now reaching their service life. A buyer should prioritise a physical inspection of the front suspension to determine the extent of the ball joint play. Since both front joints were flagged simultaneously, it suggests a uniform wear pattern rather than an isolated impact damage. The tester should also check the condition of the control arm bushings for cracking or tearing, as these often fail alongside ball joints on this model. Given the clean history prior to this year, the vehicle has been well-maintained, but the front-end geometry now requires preventative attention to avoid steering instability or uneven tyre wear.