2010 Volvo XC90 3.2L Petrol · LR10 LSY

The most recent DVSA examination on 7 January 2026 resulted in a clean pass with no defects or advisories recorded, which represents a positive and stable end to the test history. Reviewing the broader pattern, the vehicle has achieved consistent passes over a four-year window, with the only failed entry occurring in January 2023 due to an excessively worn nearside front track rod end ball joint and an electronic stability control warning lamp fault, alongside a minor twisted brake hose. That failure was evidently remedied, as the subsequent tests passed, although advisories on deteriorating front suspension arm pins or bushes were noted in January 2024, followed by minor advisories on an undertray and a discoloured rear direction indicator in January 2025. Overall the trajectory is one of stable maintenance rather than deterioration, though the cumulative wear on front suspension components warrants close attention as the vehicle continues in service. With recorded mileage of 107,939 miles spread across sixteen years, the XC90 averages roughly 6,746 miles annually, which sits comfortably within typical parameters for a vehicle of this age and class. The MOT history shows tests recorded from 2019 through 2026, with no apparent extended gaps in annual usage that would suggest prolonged standing. That said, the relatively modest annual mileage combined with the vehicle's age means certain time-based degradation factors become more relevant than pure wear, including rubber perishing, brake disc corrosion from infrequent use, and the natural ageing of fluids and electrical components irrespective of how few miles have been covered. Given the advisories recorded on both nearside and offside front lower suspension arm bushes in early 2024, a prospective buyer should treat the front suspension as a priority inspection point. On a test drive, listen carefully for any knocking or clonking noises from the front end when traversing speed bumps, potholes, or uneven surfaces, as further deterioration of these bushes or the associated pins would now be approaching two years beyond that recorded advisory. Uneven or feathered front tyre wear, particularly on the inner or outer edges, can also indicate worn bushes allowing altered camber or tracking geometry, which ties directly into the failed track rod end recorded in January 2023. Although the rod end was presumably replaced at that point, verify that a fresh alignment was carried out, and check that no pulling to one side is evident under braking or acceleration. Beyond the documented suspension concerns, this sixteen-year-old XC90 should be physically inspected for the typical age-related issues that may not appear on an MOT certificate but materially affect roadworthiness and reliability. Examine all four tyres closely for sidewall cracking or perishing caused by age rather than tread wear alone, as rubber degrades over time regardless of mileage. Inspect the brake discs for signs of corrosion or pitting, particularly if the vehicle has stood for extended periods, and verify that the calipers are releasing correctly without any binding that would cause uneven braking or juddering. Check the 12V battery's resting voltage and its date stamp, as original units will be well past their expected service life. Finally, confirm the timing of the cambelt replacement, which on the XC90's diesel engines is a critical service item due at fixed intervals by age or mileage, and verify the service book stamps or invoices for recent replacement of brake fluid, coolant, and automatic transmission fluid where applicable, all of which degrade on a calendar basis. A handheld OBD scan for any dormant or historical fault codes, particularly around the previously flagged electronic stability control system, would also provide reassurance.