VOLVO V50 (2009)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 8,873 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
72%
Total Tests (2024)
8,873
Avg Mileage
128,675 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,050
Is the 2009 VOLVO V50 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 10 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the VOLVO brand average of 87%.
At 15 years old, 72% of VOLVO V50s from 2009 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 8,873 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 128,675 miles.
How does the 2009 VOLVO V50 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2009 VOLVO V50 has 128,675 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 111,000 miles for a 15-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a VOLVO V50?
The most reliable year is the 2012 model with a 75% MOT pass rate, while the 2004 model has the lowest at 69%. The 2009 sits between the two at 72%.
How much does a 2009 VOLVO V50 cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
VOLVO V50 by Year
Checking a specific VOLVO V50?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2009 VOLVO V50
The 2009 VOLVO V50 is a premium with a 2400cc diesel engine. 8,873 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2009, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 128,675 miles at 15 years old, VOLVO V50 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2009 VOLVO V50 Fuel Costs
The 2400cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 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 2009 VOLVO V50?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,050 (£171/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 72% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
VOLVO V50 Reliability Trend
The VOLVO V50 has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 3 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2009 VOLVO V50
At 15 years old, the VOLVO V50 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 2012 model has the highest pass rate at 75%. With 8,873 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2009 VOLVO V50
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2010) 74% pass rate (+2%) from 92,611 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2011) 81% pass rate (+9%) from 57,568 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2007) 72% pass rate (same) from 45,025 tests
- FORD TRANSIT (2011) 70% pass rate (-2%) from 37,679 tests