VOLVO XC90 (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 5,327 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
82%
Total Tests (2024)
5,327
Avg Mileage
114,883 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 2012 VOLVO XC90 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, 82% of VOLVO XC90s from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 5,327 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 114,883 miles.
How does the 2012 VOLVO XC90 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 VOLVO XC90 has 114,883 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 XC90?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 91% MOT pass rate, while the 2003 model has the lowest at 72%. The 2012 sits between the two at 82%.
How much does a 2012 VOLVO XC90 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 XC90 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 90% | 49 | 40,659 mi |
| 2020 | 91% | 1,309 | 41,321 mi |
| 2019 | 90% | 9,154 | 50,386 mi |
| 2018 | 89% | 11,631 | 61,269 mi |
| 2017 | 88% | 10,316 | 72,733 mi |
| 2016 | 86% | 10,879 | 84,251 mi |
| 2015 | 85% | 5,492 | 89,253 mi |
| 2014 | 81% | 4,171 | 99,216 mi |
| 2013 | 81% | 4,585 | 108,019 mi |
| 2012 | 82% | 5,327 | 114,883 mi |
| 2011 | 78% | 8,160 | 124,635 mi |
| 2010 | 77% | 11,184 | 130,904 mi |
| 2009 | 78% | 6,349 | 136,576 mi |
| 2008 | 76% | 3,096 | 141,628 mi |
| 2007 | 73% | 5,149 | 147,081 mi |
| 2006 | 73% | 5,088 | 150,799 mi |
| 2005 | 73% | 6,336 | 159,047 mi |
| 2004 | 72% | 4,432 | 161,221 mi |
| 2003 | 72% | 1,520 | 152,528 mi |
Checking a specific VOLVO XC90?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 VOLVO XC90
The 2012 VOLVO XC90 is a premium performance with a 3192cc petrol engine. 5,327 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 114,883 miles at 12 years old, VOLVO XC90 owners cover more miles than the average driver.
2012 VOLVO XC90 Fuel Costs
The 3192cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2012 VOLVO XC90?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,247 (£187/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 82% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
VOLVO XC90 Reliability Trend
Newer VOLVO XC90s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 11 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 VOLVO XC90
At 12 years old, the VOLVO XC90 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 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 91%. With 5,327 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2012 VOLVO XC90
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- BMW 3 SERIES (2014) 87% pass rate (+5%) from 63,059 tests
- VAUXHALL INSIGNIA (2011) 77% pass rate (-5%) from 42,781 tests
- BMW 1 SERIES (2013) 84% pass rate (+2%) from 34,105 tests
- MERCEDES E (2010) 80% pass rate (-2%) from 25,610 tests