2004 Volvo XC90 2.9L Petrol · LS54 XMH

This 2004 Volvo XC90 most recently passed its MOT in December 2021 with 159,878 miles, and the recorded mileage has not increased since then. That means the car has effectively been unused or very lightly used for over four years, which is a significant red flag for a 22-year-old vehicle. The recurring mechanical pattern centres on the steering rack. In 2020, there was slight free play detected at the steering wheel, and by the 2021 test, both inner joints had developed play. This is a worsening trend for a critical safety component. The rear brake disc was also noted as worn and pitted, and the nearside rear tyre was close to the legal limit. These items were not failures, but they indicate that the car needed attention at the time of the last test and has not been driven since. The mileage of roughly 7,267 miles per year is typical for a car of this age, so the wear on consumables like tyres, brakes, and suspension is broadly expected. However, the long period of inactivity since the last MOT is far more concerning than the annual mileage rate. Standing for years can cause seized brakes, perished rubber seals, flat-spotted tyres, rodent damage to wiring and hoses, and a degraded battery.