VOLVO V40 (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 4,370 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
76%
Total Tests (2024)
4,370
Avg Mileage
105,566 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,727
Is the 2012 VOLVO V40 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 V40s from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 4,370 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 105,566 miles.
How does the 2012 VOLVO V40 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 VOLVO V40 has 105,566 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a VOLVO V40?
The most reliable year is the 2019 model with a 88% MOT pass rate, while the 2000 model has the lowest at 66%. The 2012 sits between the two at 76%.
How much does a 2012 VOLVO V40 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 V40 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 88% | 13,557 | 37,595 mi |
| 2018 | 85% | 21,560 | 46,813 mi |
| 2017 | 84% | 23,480 | 57,396 mi |
| 2016 | 82% | 27,152 | 67,465 mi |
| 2015 | 80% | 28,590 | 79,222 mi |
| 2014 | 80% | 30,222 | 89,093 mi |
| 2013 | 80% | 20,970 | 99,522 mi |
| 2012 | 76% | 4,370 | 105,566 mi |
| 2004 | 66% | 1,585 | 125,049 mi |
| 2003 | 66% | 1,843 | 125,362 mi |
| 2002 | 68% | 1,201 | 124,584 mi |
| 2001 | 70% | 959 | 121,513 mi |
| 2000 | 66% | 547 | 116,773 mi |
| 1999 | 67% | 544 | 104,983 mi |
| 1998 | 67% | 336 | 97,373 mi |
| 1997 | 70% | 274 | 97,758 mi |
| 1996 | 95% | 38 | 92,559 mi |
Checking a specific VOLVO V40?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 VOLVO V40
The 2012 VOLVO V40 is a premium with a 1984cc diesel engine. 4,370 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 105,566 miles at 12 years old, VOLVO V40 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2012 VOLVO V40 Fuel Costs
The 1984cc 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 V40?
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 V40 Reliability Trend
Newer VOLVO V40s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 14 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 VOLVO V40
At 12 years old, the VOLVO V40 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. If you're flexible on year, the 2019 model has the highest pass rate at 88%.
Alternatives to the 2012 VOLVO V40
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