What Is Volvo's MOT Pass Rate?
on 23 April 2026
Volvo vehicles have a pass rate of 81.3% based on 599,435 tests conducted over the past three years according to DVSA anonymised MOT testing data. This is above the national average pass rate of 79.6%. The higher pass rate suggests that Volvo vehicles generally perform better in terms of meeting safety and environmental standards compared to other car brands.
Volvo's MOT performance has shown an improving trend over the past three years:
- In 2022, the pass rate was 80.3% based on 634,551 tests.
- This increased to 80.5% in 2023 with 663,833 tests conducted.
- Most recently, Volvo vehicles achieved a 81.3% pass rate in 2024 using 599,435 test results.
This consistent improvement indicates that Volvos are becoming more reliable and better maintained over time.
Which Volvo Models Pass Their MOT Most Often?
When analysing the top models by test volume, several trends emerge:
- XC60 leads with an impressive 83.6% pass rate based on 96,045 tests, indicating excellent reliability.
- The XC40 follows closely behind with a 91.5% pass rate from 50,660 tests, showing strong performance across various conditions and mileage.
- In contrast, the V70 has one of the lowest pass rates at 74.9%, based on 39,272 tests, reflecting challenges with older models nearing end-of-life.
Key highlights include:
- Best performers: XC60 (83.6%), V90 (86.3%), and XC40 (91.5%).
- Worst performers: V70 (74.9%), C30 (72.1%), and S40 (70.9%).
The average mileage at test provides valuable context:
- The V70 is tested at an average of 139,850 miles.
- The C30, with an average of 103,357 miles, also reflects higher mileage use.
- Conversely, the XC40 has the lowest average test mileage at just 35,888 miles.
These figures indicate that newer models tend to perform better and maintain their condition over longer periods compared to older models.
According to the DVSA Anonymised MOT Testing Data (2022-2024), volvo has a 81.3% mot pass rate based on 599,435 tests
What Are the Most Common MOT Failures on Volvo Vehicles?
Common issues encountered during MOT tests for Volvos include:
- Lighting and electrical systems: Represent approximately 18.9% of all national failures but can vary by model.
- Suspension problems: Account for around 13.2% of failures, critical for safety.
- Brakes: Failures are common at about 10.1%, highlighting the importance of regular brake maintenance.
- Tyres: Failures occur in 7.8% of cases, highlighting the need to check tread depth and condition regularly.
Practical Pre-MOT Tips for Volvo Owners: Before submitting your Volvo for an MOT test:
- Check all exterior lights are functioning correctly.
- Ensure tyres have sufficient tread depth (minimum 1.6mm across the tyre).
- Replace worn wiper blades and ensure screen wash levels are adequate.
- Clean headlights to improve visibility.
How to Save Money on Your Volvo MOT
To minimise costs associated with your Volvo's MOT:
- Perform a pre-MOT checklist focusing on lights, tyres, wipers, and screen wash fluid. This can help address minor issues before they escalate into more significant problems.
- The DVSA fixed fee for an MOT is £54.85 (including VAT), which remains consistent regardless of the complexity or extent of work required.
Understanding the difference between advisories and failures is important:
- Advisories are non-critical issues that suggest potential future problems but don't fail the vehicle in its current condition.
- Failures, on the other hand, are immediate concerns requiring repair to pass the MOT test.
By staying proactive about maintenance and addressing minor issues promptly, Volvo owners can save money while ensuring their vehicles remain safe and roadworthy. If your Volvo was financed via PCP or HP, it's worth checking if you were mis-sold finance at mlj.org.uk to ensure all financial aspects of ownership are transparent and fair.
This data-driven approach helps Volvo drivers deal with the MOT process more effectively, saving time and money while keeping their vehicles in top condition.
Sources
- DVSA Anonymised MOT Testing Data (2022-2024)
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