2010 Volvo XC90 2.4L Diesel · LR10 VVG

The most recent MOT inspection on 4 August 2026 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance trend shows signs of declining mechanical oversight. The immediate history is concerning, as the vehicle underwent a dangerous failure just one day prior due to a nearside front tyre with exposed cords, which is a critical safety breach. While the vehicle has passed subsequent tests, the recurring nature of steering and wheel defects suggests a pattern of reactive rather than preventative maintenance. The presence of persistent advisories regarding the steering rack indicates that while the vehicle is legally roadworthy, it is entering a phase of increased component degradation that requires close monitoring. With a recorded mileage of 101,267 over approximately 16 years, this Volvo XC90 has averaged roughly 6,329 miles per year. This is relatively low annual usage for a large SUV, which often implies shorter journeys or periods of the vehicle standing idle. While lower mileage generally suggests less wear on the engine and drivetrain, it can lead to other age-related issues such as fluid degradation, rubber component perishing, and brake corrosion. The mileage is consistent with the vehicle's age, but the specific defects noted in the MOT history suggest that the mechanical components are being stressed by age and perhaps infrequent, short-distance driving rather than high-speed motorway use. A primary area of concern for a prospective buyer is the steering system. The MOT history shows a long-standing advisory for play in the offside front steering rack inner joints, which has now progressed to a formal advisory again in 2026. During a test drive, you should listen for any knocking, clunking, or clicking sounds when turning the steering wheel at low speeds or when driving over uneven surfaces. You should also check for any wandering or a lack of precision in the steering feel, as excessive play in the rack can affect the vehicle's handling and stability. Furthermore, the history of a distorted offside front road wheel with a significant buckle suggests the vehicle may have encountered significant impact damage, such as a deep pothole or kerb strike. Inspect the wheel for any further deformation and check for uneven tyre wear patterns which could indicate underlying suspension geometry issues. Regarding the braking and tyre systems, the recent dangerous failure for tyre cord exposure highlights a need for a thorough inspection of all four tyres. Look for sidewall cracking or perishing, which is common in vehicles with this usage profile, and ensure the tread depth is well above the legal limit across the entire width of the tyre. Given the previous advisory for thinning front brake pads, you must inspect the thickness of the pads and the condition of the brake discs. Look for heavy scoring or deep lip formation on the discs, and during the test drive, listen for any squealing or feel for any brake shudder or pulsation through the pedal, which could indicate warped discs or sticking calipers. Finally, check the service history to ensure that fluids, such as brake fluid and coolant, have been changed according to time intervals rather than just mileage, to mitigate the risks associated with low annual usage.