2021 Volvo XC90 Rdesign PRO B5 Mhev AWD A 2.0L Electric diesel · WF71 XMA

The most recent MOT, dated 12 December 2025, was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle met the statutory safety and emissions standards at that point. However, the preceding test on 11 December 2025 resulted in a major failure for front‑brake imbalance across an axle, and an earlier advisory on 14 October 2024 flagged thin front‑brake pads. The progression from an advisory to a failure and back to a pass suggests that remedial work was carried out after the 2024 advisory, but the recurrence of a brake‑related fault indicates that the brake system may still be a marginal area and should be examined closely to confirm that the imbalance has been fully rectified. At 85,754 miles the 2021 Volvo XC90 has accumulated roughly 17,000 miles per annum, which is above the average for a five‑year‑old premium SUV. Such a mileage level points to relatively high wear on consumables and moving components. The vehicle’s mileage history does not reveal any long periods of inactivity, so the wear is likely to be progressive rather than the result of prolonged standing. Consequently, the suspension bushings, coil springs, and drivetrain bearings are likely to have experienced a higher number of load cycles, and the brake discs and pads will have been subjected to more frequent heating and cooling cycles than a lower‑mileage example. Given the recent brake‑imbalance failure, a prospective buyer should give the front braking system thorough scrutiny. Visually inspect the pads for remaining thickness, the discs for scoring, rust spots, or uneven wear patterns, and the caliper pistons for signs of sticking or leakage. On a test drive, listen for any pulsation through the steering wheel or a one‑sided pull when applying the brakes, and feel for any juddering or uneven brake pedal feel. It is advisable to have the brake fluid tested for moisture content and to confirm that the fluid has been replaced within the recommended interval, as degraded fluid can contribute to uneven braking performance. Beyond the brakes, the high mileage and five‑year age warrant checks on tyre condition, battery health, and time‑based fluid services. Examine the tyre tread depth on all four wheels, looking for uneven wear that could indicate alignment or suspension issues, and inspect the sidewalls for cracking or dry‑rot, especially if the tyres are older than three years regardless of tread depth. Test the 12‑volt battery with a load tester or have it scanned for state‑of‑charge, as batteries in high‑usage vehicles can lose capacity faster. Verify that the engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluids have been changed at the intervals prescribed by Volvo, and look for any signs of oil leaks around the valve cover, oil pan, and rear differential. Finally, confirm that the service book contains entries for regular oil changes, suspension inspections, and any recommended timing‑belt or chain service, as these records will give a clearer picture of the vehicle’s overall maintenance discipline.