2009 Volvo XC90 2.4L Diesel · SK09 VPC

The vehicle remains roadworthy as of its most recent MOT on 2026-02-04, passing with minor advisories concerning tyre wear on all four corners, none of which breached legal limits at the time. However, the maintenance trend is not improving — it has remained stable in terms of structural integrity but shows persistent, unresolved issues with suspension components and tyre condition. The corrosion on all four coil springs, noted since at least 2023, has not been addressed despite multiple tests, indicating a pattern of deferred maintenance rather than active repair. The fact that the same tyre wear issues reappeared across multiple tests suggests either a failure to rotate tyres properly or a lack of attention to alignment and balancing. Mileage progression is consistent with the vehicle’s age — 120,289 miles over 17 years equates to roughly 7,076 miles annually, which is typical for a family SUV of this vintage. There are no sudden spikes or gaps in the record; each MOT was conducted within a 12-month window, and the mileage increased steadily from 104,133 miles in 2023 to 120,289 miles in 2026. This steady climb implies regular use, not long-term storage, and suggests that wear on tyres, suspension, and brakes is likely to be cumulative rather than sudden or catastrophic. The absence of any major mechanical failures or emissions-related issues in the last three years is a positive sign, though not a substitute for physical inspection. Buyers should inspect the suspension system closely, particularly the coil springs and suspension arm bushes, as these have been flagged in every test since 2023 and show no signs of correction. Corrosion on the springs may compromise ride quality and handling, and while not yet critical, it indicates exposure to moisture and lack of protective maintenance. Tyre wear patterns should be examined for unevenness — the repeated near-limit wear on all four tyres suggests possible alignment issues or unaddressed suspension geometry. Brake components, especially the rear calipers and discs, should be checked for binding or excessive wear, as the parking brake lever’s excessive movement in 2024 was not rectified before the 2026 test. Structural rust, particularly around wheel arches and suspension mounting points, should also be visually assessed, as corrosion is a recurring theme in the MOT history. The vehicle’s mechanical condition is serviceable but not pristine. It has been maintained to a basic standard, with repairs deferred on several structural and wear items. A buyer should expect to budget for suspension component replacement and full tyre rotation or replacement, along with a thorough brake system check. The absence of recent major failures is reassuring, but the persistence of corrosion and tyre wear indicates that the previous owner prioritised minimal compliance over proactive upkeep. A pre-purchase inspection by a specialist mechanic familiar with Volvo’s suspension systems is strongly advised to confirm the integrity of the coil springs and suspension arms before purchase.