2006 Volvo XC90 2.4L Diesel · WJ56 VSL

This 2006 Volvo XC90 is showing clear signs of a vehicle reaching the end of its reliable service life. While the annual mileage is typical for a car of this age, the recent MOT history indicates a worsening trend regarding structural integrity and mechanical maintenance. The most concerning pattern is the recurring and escalating corrosion. MOT records from 2023 through 2025 consistently highlight corrosion on the rear sub-frame and general underbody, with a specific failure in 2024 noting corrosion near a chassis mounting point. This suggests that the structural steel is deteriorating, which is a significant safety and repair cost risk for a vehicle of this weight and age. Beyond the structural concerns, the 2024 failure highlighted serious safety issues including exposed tyre cords and a corroded power steering pipe that adversely affected steering control. While the car passed its most recent inspection in early 2025, it did so with advisory notes for continued sub-frame corrosion and a corroded coil spring. The persistence of these issues, alongside a long-standing engine oil leak, suggests that the vehicle has been subjected to minimal preventative maintenance in recent years. The mileage of 178,786 miles is consistent with the age of the vehicle, but the history of tyre neglect and structural decay points toward a car that has seen heavy use or poor upkeep rather than careful ownership. If you are considering this vehicle, you must prioritise a professional inspection of the underside.