2012 Volvo S60 1.6L Diesel · WN62 MFP

The latest MOT test on the 2012 Volvo S60, conducted on 2026-08-01, resulted in a passing grade, though it did not entirely clear the vehicle of its previous issues. The test revealed two persistent advisories: an oil leak that remains moderate in severity, and a slight play in the offside front suspension arm ball joint, both of which were also flagged in the prior MOT on 2026-07-28. This pattern of recurring advisories—particularly the suspension ball joint and oil leak—suggests a maintenance trend that has not improved over time, though it has not worsened dramatically either. The vehicle failed an MOT in 2026-07-28 due to a dangerous failure with exposed tyre cords, which indicates a critical tyre condition that must be addressed promptly. This failure underscores the importance of addressing the ongoing suspension and fluid-related issues before they escalate, as the S60’s suspension system and lubrication are critical to roadworthiness and safety. The recorded mileage of 88,594 miles for a vehicle this old—approximately 14 years—reflects a moderate annual usage rate of around 6,328 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and typical British driving conditions. The consistency of this mileage suggests a steady, albeit not particularly high, level of use, though there may have been periods of inactivity, which can lead to secondary issues such as standing corrosion or fluid degradation. Lower mileage might imply lighter use, but the absence of a significantly higher annual mileage does not necessarily mean the vehicle has been well-maintained; it could also mean that wear has been gradual rather than accelerated. For a suspension-heavy vehicle like the S60, which relies heavily on its struts, ball joints, and bushings, the wear progression from these components can be subtle but critical, especially if the vehicle has spent time stationary without regular movement. Given the recurring advisories and the critical tyre failure from the previous MOT, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension system, particularly the front suspension arms and ball joints. The slight play in the offside ball joint suggests early signs of wear, and if left unaddressed, it could lead to increased vibration, misalignment, or even a complete failure of the joint, which would compromise steering control and handling. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunks or rattles in the suspension, particularly when the vehicle is driven over bumps or at higher speeds, as these can indicate worn or failing suspension components. The oil leak should also be investigated immediately, as it may stem from a failing oil seal or gasket, which could lead to increased oil consumption or engine damage if not repaired. Check for oil stains under the vehicle and inspect the oil fill cap for signs of contamination or excessive oil levels. Additionally, the exposed tyre cords from the 2026-07-28 MOT failure necessitate an urgent replacement of the near-side front tyre, as exposed cords are a safety hazard and indicate severe tread degradation. This tyre should be replaced with a new one that meets current legal standards, as the remaining tread depth will be insufficient for safe traction, especially in wet or adverse conditions. The thin rear brake pads from the 2021 MOT, while not a failure, should be monitored closely, as they may require replacement within the next 1,000 to 2,000 miles to prevent excessive brake disc warping or binding. Inspect the brake discs for signs of corrosion, scoring, or uneven wear, and check for any binding or grinding noises when braking, which could indicate caliper issues or warped discs. Finally, with the vehicle’s age and usage profile, the buyer should verify that all fluids—particularly the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant—are at the correct levels and not showing signs of degradation or contamination. Check the coolant for any signs of sludge or discolouration, as this could indicate a failing water pump or overheating risk, and ensure the brake fluid is clear and free of moisture, as moisture can lead to brake fluid contamination and system failure.