2021 Volvo V90 R-Design B5 Mhev AWD Auto 2.0L Electric diesel · VB10 DJB

The most recent MOT record from April 2026 shows a vehicle that passed its test with no defects, but only after failing twice in quick succession due to exposed tyre cords on all four wheels. This pattern of repeated tyre failures—first on the front axle in April 2026, then on the rear in April 2025—suggests a consistent oversight in tyre maintenance rather than a sudden mechanical issue. The absence of any other faults in the three available tests indicates that beyond tyres, the vehicle’s structural integrity, brakes, suspension, and emissions appear to have been managed adequately. However, the recurring tyre failures point to either neglect in monitoring tread depth or aggressive driving conditions, as exposed cords are a critical safety failure under DVSA regulations. The mileage accumulation of 44,037 miles over five years aligns closely with the UK average for a vehicle of this age, averaging roughly 8,800 miles annually. There are no red flags in the spacing between tests; each MOT was taken within the legal 12-month window, and the mileage increments are steady without sudden spikes or prolonged inactivity. The last three tests cover the full period from April 2024 to April 2026, providing a clear snapshot of the vehicle’s upkeep. There’s no evidence of excessive wear on other components that might correlate with high mileage, such as brake pads, suspension bushes, or drivetrain issues. For a buyer, the primary concern is the tyre history, which demands immediate verification. All four tyres have failed on the same critical defect—exposed cords—indicating they may have been underinflated, overloaded, or simply left until legally unsafe. A thorough inspection should confirm the current tread depth on all four tyres, including the spare, and check for uneven wear patterns that could signal alignment or balancing issues. Beyond tyres, the lack of other advisories or defects in the MOT suggests no hidden structural corrosion, binding brakes, or worn suspension components. However, a pre-purchase inspection should still verify brake fluid condition, coil spring integrity, and any signs of rust in wheel arches or underbody panels, as these are common areas for long-term neglect in Volvo models. The MHEV system should also be checked for error codes, though the MOT records provide no indication of hybrid-specific issues.