2012 Volvo V50: petrol or diesel?
Petrol, diesel and hybrid versions go wrong in different ways, so each has its own figures from the MOTs these cars had during 2023–2025. Pick the one you’re looking at: the fuel is on the logbook and in the car’s MOT history.
Hybrid versions had too few MOTs for figures of their own, or weren’t sold.
Known faults on every 2012 Volvo V50
Reported by owners, mechanics and buying guides for this model and age. Check which engine the car has, as some apply to one engine only.
- All engines
Fuel pipe, handbrake and fan recalls
There were several recalls, for possible fuel and power steering pipe leaks, faulty handbrakes and faulty cooling fans.
At the viewing: Run the free DVSA recall check on the reg.
- All engines
Air con condenser failure
The air con condenser tends to wear through.
At the viewing: Make sure the climate control blows properly cold.
- All engines
Worn suspension arms and drop links
Clicking when the car is rocked side to side can mean worn lower arms or drop links.
At the viewing: Rock the car and listen for clicks, and for knocks over bumps on the test drive.
Looking at a Volvo V50?
Check the actual car: its own MOT history, mileage and what to ask the seller. Free, no sign-up.
Other years
Every year of the Volvo V50 compared
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2011 | 12,487 | Suspension 42% |
| 2010 | 13,706 | Suspension 44% |
| 2009 | 13,588 | Suspension 43% |
| 2008 | 15,587 | Suspension 47% |
| 2007 | 8,361 | Suspension 49% |
| 2006 | 8,223 | Suspension 50% |
| 2005 | 5,901 | Suspension 54% |
| 2004 | 2,503 | Suspension 52% |