2022 Volvo XC40 Plus Recharge EV Electric · YP22 WCT

With only two MOT tests on record and the second-most-recent pass from May 2025 returning no defects at all, the roadworthiness picture for this Volvo XC40 Recharge EV is broadly favourable at face value, though the most recent examination on 24 April 2026 introduced two advisories that warrant close attention before purchase. The 2025 pass with a clean sheet suggests that, prior to the latest test, the vehicle was presenting no notable wear items to the examiner, and the sudden emergence of two advisories in a single visit is more indicative of recent mileage accumulation or specific component wear rather than a chronic mechanical pattern. Because there is no longer history available beyond these two tests, any underlying theme of recurring advisories cannot yet be established, but the latest outcome does introduce immediate items that will need addressing shortly after purchase. The recorded mileage of 38,600 miles across a four-year-old vehicle equates to an annual accumulation of roughly 9,650 miles per year, which sits comfortably within typical usage parameters for a car of this age and type. There are no unusual gaps between tests, no rapid spikes in recorded mileage, and no extended periods off the road that would suggest long stationary periods — the vehicle has been in continuous, regular use, which is generally favourable for an electric powertrain where prolonged standing can affect 12V auxiliary battery health and tyre flat-spotting, though neither concern appears relevant here. The relatively modest annual mileage also means that mechanical wear on consumables such as brake components is likely to be on the lower side, given the regenerative braking benefits inherent to EV operation. For a prospective buyer, the most immediate items requiring attention are those flagged in the April 2026 advisory notices. The front tyres were recorded as worn close to the legal limit on both edges with a remaining tread depth of approximately 2mm, meaning replacement is imminent and should be factored into acquisition costs. The advisory noting that front and rear tyres are of different sizes is unusual and suggests either an incorrect replacement has been fitted at some point, a manufacturer specification has not been observed, or a mix of tyres from different production runs is fitted; either way, this is worth clarifying with the seller, as mismatched tyres can affect traction, stability, and particularly on a heavy EV, range efficiency and rolling resistance. On a test drive, listen for any increase in road noise from the front axle, particularly on rougher surfaces, which can be an early indicator that the tyres have worn unevenly due to a suspension or alignment issue rather than simply age. Beyond the advisory items, it is worth inspecting the underside of the vehicle for any signs of corrosion on suspension components, as EVs of this era and marque can develop surface corrosion on subframes and brake pipe brackets depending on operating environment, particularly if used on gritted winter roads. Check that all four tyres are now matched in size, brand, and specification, and verify the age of any replacement set by examining the DOT markings on the sidewalls to ensure they are recent. On the road, pay attention to any steering pull to one side under braking or acceleration, any knocking or clonking from the front suspension over speed bumps, and any binding or judder from the brake pedal, which would suggest the rear brake calipers — often lightly used on EVs due to regen — may be seizing. Finally, confirm the operation of all driver-assistance systems, given the complexity of the Volvo safety suite, and ensure that any warning messages relating to tyre pressure, traction, or stability are absent from the dashboard display.