VOLVO V70 (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,915 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
81%
Total Tests (2024)
2,915
Avg Mileage
123,694 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,900
Is the 2012 VOLVO V70 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the VOLVO brand average of 87%.
At 12 years old, 81% of VOLVO V70s from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,915 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 123,694 miles.
How does the 2012 VOLVO V70 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 VOLVO V70 has 123,694 miles on the clock, which is above the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car. Higher-mileage cars often have more motorway miles, which is generally less harmful than stop-start urban driving.
Best year to buy a VOLVO V70?
The most reliable year is the 2016 model with a 88% MOT pass rate, while the 2002 model has the lowest at 70%. The 2012 sits between the two at 81%.
How much does a 2012 VOLVO V70 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 V70 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 88% | 1,228 | 78,855 mi |
| 2015 | 85% | 3,395 | 87,586 mi |
| 2014 | 85% | 3,373 | 100,014 mi |
| 2013 | 82% | 3,154 | 115,277 mi |
| 2012 | 81% | 2,915 | 123,694 mi |
| 2011 | 82% | 3,696 | 128,965 mi |
| 2010 | 80% | 5,168 | 136,037 mi |
| 2009 | 77% | 7,268 | 141,176 mi |
| 2008 | 79% | 6,242 | 145,833 mi |
| 2007 | 76% | 5,153 | 144,943 mi |
| 2006 | 74% | 5,049 | 147,175 mi |
| 2005 | 73% | 6,350 | 155,857 mi |
| 2004 | 71% | 5,478 | 158,377 mi |
| 2003 | 71% | 4,846 | 158,001 mi |
| 2002 | 70% | 4,400 | 157,266 mi |
| 2001 | 71% | 2,976 | 151,094 mi |
| 2000 | 71% | 2,458 | 158,830 mi |
| 1999 | 72% | 2,866 | 164,681 mi |
| 1998 | 71% | 2,545 | 163,098 mi |
| 1997 | 71% | 1,772 | 162,096 mi |
Checking a specific VOLVO V70?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 VOLVO V70
The 2012 VOLVO V70 is a premium with a 2401cc diesel engine. 2,915 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2012, the average MOT pass rate is 78%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 123,694 miles at 12 years old, VOLVO V70 owners cover more miles than the average driver.
2012 VOLVO V70 Fuel Costs
The 2401cc 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 2012 VOLVO V70?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,900 (£158/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 81% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
VOLVO V70 Reliability Trend
Newer VOLVO V70s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 10 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 VOLVO V70
At 12 years old, the VOLVO V70 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 2016 model has the highest pass rate at 88%.
Alternatives to the 2012 VOLVO V70
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2010) 74% pass rate (-7%) from 92,611 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2013) 85% pass rate (+4%) from 71,326 tests
- FORD TRANSIT (2014) 77% pass rate (-4%) from 59,048 tests
- VAUXHALL ZAFIRA (2013) 78% pass rate (-3%) from 47,851 tests