2021 Volvo V60 R-Design T6 Recharge AWD A 2.0L Hybrid electric (clean) · SM71 ABZ

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 22 November 2025 resulted in a pass with no defects or advisories recorded, which represents the strongest possible outcome from the official roadworthiness inspection. However, it is worth noting that this pass followed immediately after a failure on the preceding day, 21 November 2025, which recorded a major defect for the supplementary restraint system warning lamp indicating a fault under item 7.1.6 (a). The fact that the vehicle was presented for retest the very next day and passed cleanly suggests the SRS fault was rectified promptly, but a prospective buyer should obtain documentary evidence from the seller confirming what remedial work was carried out, which component or system was addressed, and whether any diagnostic trouble codes remain stored within the airbag control module. An illuminated or reoccurring airbag warning lamp has serious safety implications, as it may indicate a fault within the airbag inflator circuits, seatbelt pretensioner wiring, crash sensor, or occupant detection mat, meaning one or more restraint systems may fail to deploy in the event of a collision. The 2024 test passed with an advisory for a nearside front tyre being worn close to the legal limit and worn on the edge, which although advisory rather than a failure, suggests uneven wear pattern consistent with potential wheel alignment deviation, worn suspension components, or incorrect tyre pressures over the preceding period. With 56,057 miles recorded over approximately five years of service, this Volvo V60 is averaging around 11,211 miles per annum, which is broadly typical and proportionate for its age and class. There are no obvious extended gaps in the recorded mileage that would indicate prolonged periods of standing, and the usage profile suggests a vehicle that has been driven regularly rather than left idle for long durations. That said, a plug-in hybrid powertrain such as the T6 Recharge can mask certain mechanical wear characteristics, particularly because the electric drive system handles much of the low-speed and light-load operation, potentially reducing brake disc usage while placing different demands on the high-voltage battery, electric drive units, and associated cooling systems. Given the mileage has accumulated at a steady rate, buyers should anticipate that normal consumable wear items such as brake pads, discs, tyres, and wiper blades will be approaching or due for replacement, and the hybrid battery state of health should be specifically verified. From a physical inspection standpoint, a buyer should carry out a thorough walkaround and under-bonnet examination to compensate for the relatively sparse MOT defect history, which by definition only confirms roadworthiness at the moment of test and does not record gradual deterioration or latent issues. Tyres should be inspected not merely for tread depth but for sidewall perishing and cracking, which is a common age-related failure mode even when tread remains adequate, particularly on a 2021 vehicle now five years old. The 12-volt auxiliary battery, which powers the vehicle's control electronics and is essential for hybrid system boot-up, should be load-tested as these batteries commonly fail between four and six years of age, and a weak cell can produce confusing hybrid system warnings. All fluids, including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and the dedicated hybrid system coolant, should be checked for condition and service interval compliance, as brake fluid is hygroscopic and degrades on a calendar basis regardless of mileage, typically requiring renewal every two years. On the test drive, particular attention should be paid to the operation of the supplementary restraint system warning lamp, confirming that it illuminates with ignition and extinguishes shortly after system self-test, with no subsequent reappearance during driving. The regenerative braking system and transition between electric and combustion propulsion should feel smooth and consistent, with no unusual vibrations, warning messages, or restricted power mode indications suggesting battery or powertrain concerns. The suspension should be tested over uneven surfaces and during cornering to detect any knocking, clonking, or wandering that might indicate worn control arm bushes, drop links, anti-roll bar bushes, or coil spring fatigue, all of which are common wear items on vehicles of this age and mileage. The steering should remain precise without vibration or pull, and the automatic gearbox should select gears seamlessly in both pure electric and hybrid drive modes. Finally, any history of work carried out to address the November 2025 SRS fault should be supported by an invoice from a competent workshop, ideally a Volvo main dealer or recognised specialist, and a diagnostic scan should be requested to confirm no residual fault codes are present within the safety restraint system.