VOLVO S40 (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,267 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
76%
Total Tests (2024)
2,267
Avg Mileage
101,974 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,727
Is the 2012 VOLVO S40 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 6 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the VOLVO brand average of 87%.
At 12 years old, 76% of VOLVO S40s from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,267 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 101,974 miles.
How does the 2012 VOLVO S40 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 VOLVO S40 has 101,974 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
How much does a 2012 VOLVO S40 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
VOLVO S40 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | 74% | 66 | 94,541 mi |
| 2012 | 76% | 2,267 | 101,974 mi |
| 2011 | 74% | 2,791 | 110,521 mi |
| 2010 | 72% | 3,808 | 110,559 mi |
| 2009 | 74% | 4,499 | 109,564 mi |
| 2008 | 72% | 5,487 | 115,488 mi |
| 2007 | 73% | 3,388 | 119,784 mi |
| 2006 | 73% | 3,314 | 119,567 mi |
| 2005 | 70% | 2,790 | 116,994 mi |
| 2004 | 70% | 2,223 | 106,865 mi |
| 2003 | 67% | 1,280 | 104,893 mi |
| 2002 | 69% | 823 | 102,845 mi |
| 2001 | 71% | 599 | 101,232 mi |
| 2000 | 65% | 379 | 95,420 mi |
| 1999 | 66% | 425 | 95,707 mi |
| 1998 | 74% | 356 | 98,379 mi |
| 1997 | 72% | 219 | 99,179 mi |
| 1996 | 73% | 40 | 84,454 mi |
Checking a specific VOLVO S40?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 VOLVO S40
The 2012 VOLVO S40 is a premium with a 1999cc diesel engine. 2,267 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 76% of 2012 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 101,974 miles at 12 years old, VOLVO S40 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2012 VOLVO S40 Fuel Costs
The 1999cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2012 VOLVO S40?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,727 (£144/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 76% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
VOLVO S40 Reliability Trend
Newer VOLVO S40s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 4 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 VOLVO S40
At 12 years old, the VOLVO S40 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age.
Alternatives to the 2012 VOLVO S40
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2014) 87% pass rate (+11%) from 120,417 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2013) 79% pass rate (+3%) from 101,969 tests
- AUDI A3 (2014) 86% pass rate (+10%) from 77,639 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2010) 74% pass rate (-2%) from 75,715 tests