2010 Volvo C70 2.4L Diesel · LB10 JZX

This Volvo C70 presents a mixed mechanical record over its MOT history, with the most recent test on 2026-04-22 returning a pass but accompanied by four advisories that point toward ongoing wear in specific areas. A previous test in February 2025 failed with two dangerous tyre defects and a major drive shaft boot failure, which were rectified to allow a pass at the re-test, while another failure in February 2024 centred on a missing steering rack gaiter and emerging front suspension wear. The pattern between 2024 and 2026 shows that the front lower suspension arms and their rear bushes have been flagged repeatedly across two consecutive tests, suggesting progressive deterioration rather than a one-off finding. Combined with the anti-roll bar linkage play noted in 2026 and the front tyres worn on their inner edges, the front suspension and steering geometry appear to be the primary areas requiring close attention. With 121,309 miles accumulated over roughly sixteen years, this vehicle averages around 7,582 miles annually, which is broadly in line with typical usage for a car of this age. There are no extended gaps in the MOT record, with annual or near-annual testing throughout the documented period, and mileage progression appears consistent rather than indicating any unusual lay-up or sudden acceleration in use. For a convertible of this vintage, average annual mileage suggests the vehicle has been in regular service, meaning consumable items such as brakes, tyres, and suspension components have been subjected to steady wear. The 121,309-mile odometer reading also places the car well into the upper third of its likely working life, so drivetrain and underbody components should be expected to show commensurate ageing even where the MOT history does not record specific defects. A prospective buyer should focus the pre-purchase inspection on the front suspension assemblies referenced in the 2024 and 2026 advisories, paying particular attention to the lower suspension arm rear bushes on both sides and the near-side rear anti-roll bar linkage ball joint. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end over uneven surfaces and speed humps, and feel for imprecise steering response or wandering, which could indicate that the worn bushes have now developed excessive movement beyond the advisory threshold. Visually inspect the inner edges of both front tyres for uneven wear, as the 2026 advisories noted wear on the inner edges of both fronts, a pattern often associated with worn suspension bushes or alignment issues stemming from the deteriorated components. The near-side front position lamp defect from 2024 should also be verified as fully functional across all light sources. The 2025 dangerous tyre failures and CV joint boot defect demand that the tyres and front drive shafts be examined closely before purchase, even though these were addressed at the subsequent re-test. Inspect both rear tyres for any bulges, sidewall damage, or structural separation, and check the off-side front drive shaft inner and outer CV boots for any signs of fresh grease leakage, cracks, or perished rubber, as a recently replaced boot can mask underlying joint wear. The advisory regarding an off-side front oil leak, described as not excessive, warrants a thorough check of the engine and sump area for fresh seepage, blue exhaust smoke on startup, and any evidence of top-up between services. Finally, because the steering rack gaiter was replaced following the 2024 failure, verify its current condition is intact and free from tears, and consider a compression or leak-down test if any engine oil consumption is reported during the inspection.