1998 Volvo S40 1.9L Petrol · S905 BNV
1998 Volvo S40 (1.9L, petrol). First registered 01/08/1998. Recorded mileage 146,245 miles. MOT status: Expired. Taxed until 01/04/2027.
- Make & Model
- VOLVO S40
- Year / Origin
- 1998 · Glasgow
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 05/07/2026
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01/04/2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 146,245 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.9L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- Petrol
- Year
- 1998
- Engine
- 1948cc
S905 BNV Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 02/07/2025
- 146,245 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 1 defect noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring bodywork & corrosion items (2 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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S905 BNV Mileage History
- 04/07/2023142,265 mi
- 03/07/2024143,725 mi+1,460 mi
- 03/07/2024143,725 mi
- 02/07/2025146,245 mi+2,520 mi
- 02/07/2025146,245 mi
Average of roughly 1,994 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
S905 BNV MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 1998 Volvo S40 (S905 BNV) between July 2023 and July 2025.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 02 July 2025 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Bodywork (2 issues), Lighting (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 2 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with extreme caution unless you are a mechanic willing to undertake a project. While the S40 is built solidly, the structural rust and recent mechanical failures make this a high-risk purchase.
The primary focus for any buyer must be the structural integrity. The 2025 MOT advisory notes corroded inner sills that have been covered with plastic oversills; this is a major red flag for hidden rust that can be extremely expensive to repair. You should have a professional perform an underbody inspection to determine the extent of the corrosion beyond the visible plastic covers.
Additionally, check the service history for consistent oil changes, as the 2025 failure noted an excessive oil leak from the engine. Given the age and mileage, ensure the timing belt has been replaced recently, as this is a critical maintenance item for this 2.0L Volvo engine that can lead to catastrophic failure if neglected.
As an older,displacement 2.0L petrol-powered saloon, you should expect modest fuel economy, likely around 28-32 MPG depending on driving. Tax for this era is generally low due to its age, but insurance groups can vary significantly based on your driver profile.
Maintenance costs will be influenced by the car's age, with parts like suspension bushings, wipers, and sensors likely needing replacement. Estimate an annual running cost including fuel, tax, insurance, and basic maintenance at approximately £1,200-£1,500.
Pay close attention to the sills and wheel arches. The MOT history explicitly mentions corroded inner sills covered by plastic oversills, which is a common tactic used to hide structural decay. Look for bubbling paint or uneven edges where the plastics meet. The 2022 MOT also flagged corroded front and rear brake pipes; check if these have been replaced or merely cleaned with grease.
Inspect the engine bay for leaks, as the 2025 failure cited both a split CV boot and an excessive engine oil leak. Check the drive shafts for signs of grease spray. You should also test the windscreen wiper mechanism thoroughly, as both wipers failed test in 2023, suggesting the motor or linkage may be beginning to fail.
This 1998 Volvo S40 has covered a mileage of 146,245 miles over nearly 28 years. While it has passed its most recent MOT, the history reveals a pattern of recurring mechanical failures and significant structural concerns. Most concerning is the reported corrosion on the inner sills, which has been masked with plastic oversills, indicating potential deep-seated rust issues.
The first-generation Volvo S40 is known for a robust chassis but is prone to age-related electrical issues and rust in the UK climate.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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