2018 Volvo S90 2.0L Petrol · SW18 OWE

The latest MOT test on 2026-06-10 returned a passing result, but the presence of multiple recurring advisories indicates a maintenance trend that requires careful monitoring rather than outright concern. The consistent presence of ball joint play in both front suspension arms across three separate MOTs suggests a developing issue with suspension component wear, which, if left unaddressed, could lead to increased roadholding instability, premature bush failure, or even steering linkage failure. The thin brake pads and worn front disc—though not yet critical—demonstrate ongoing brake system degradation, particularly on the front axle, where wear is more aggressive due to the higher braking forces. These advisories do not currently affect roadworthiness but warrant immediate attention to prevent escalation into failures that could compromise safety. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 35,884 miles at a mere 8 years old is unusually low for its age, averaging just 4,486 miles annually, which could imply either light usage or prolonged periods of inactivity. Such low mileage can mask wear patterns that might otherwise be more pronounced at higher mileage levels, but it also raises concerns about potential standing corrosion, particularly in the brake systems, suspension components, and undercarriage where moisture and road salt exposure are common. The absence of significant mileage accumulation over the past few years may also suggest that the vehicle has not undergone regular servicing intervals, leaving critical time-based maintenance tasks—such as fluid refreshes and component inspections—unaddressed. For the prospective buyer, the most urgent inspection should focus on the suspension system, particularly the front ball joints and lower control arms, as the slight play detected in multiple MOTs indicates progressive wear. On a test drive, listen for clunks or rattles during cornering or over bumps, which may indicate loose or failing suspension components. The brake system should be thoroughly checked for uneven wear, which could signal binding calipers or warped discs, and ensure no spongy or pulsating brake pedal feedback, which might suggest disc warping or internal brake pad contamination. Additionally, visually inspect the brake discs for signs of scoring or pitting, and check the rear brake pads for consistent wear, as the advisories suggest uneven wear patterns. Beyond the immediate concerns, a comprehensive inspection should include a check of the tyre condition, particularly the sidewalls for signs of cracking or perishing, which can occur even with low mileage if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. Verify the tyre tread depth is within legal limits and that there are no cuts or bulges that could compromise tyre integrity. The battery should be tested for voltage and capacity, as low usage may have led to a discharged or failing 12V system, which could affect starter and electrical component performance. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and the time-based nature of fluid degradation, ensure that all fluids—brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—are fresh and within manufacturer-recommended service intervals, as standing fluids can corrode seals and damage components over time. A service history review would also be beneficial to confirm that routine maintenance, such as oil changes and filter replacements, has been conducted according to Volvo’s recommended schedule.