1991 Volvo 700 Series: common problems and MOT failures
What MOT testers find on the Volvo 700 Series first registered in 1991: we looked at the 136 MOTs these cars had during 2023–2025. Plus known faults and what to look at before you buy one.
Small sample: there were only 136 MOTs of these cars during 2023–2025, so treat the percentages as rough. The known faults below don't depend on it.
Common 1991 Volvo 700 Series MOT failures and advisories
The share of 1991 Volvo 700 Series MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.
- Brakes39% of testsRough price £150–£350
At the viewing: Look for a lip on the disc edges and feel for judder or pulling when braking firmly from about 40mph.
- Suspension35% of testsRough price £120–£400
At the viewing: Listen for knocks over speed bumps, and look behind each front wheel for a snapped coil spring.
- Lights and electrics34% of testsRough price £10–£80
At the viewing: Ask a friend to check every light, including brake lights and indicators, while you operate them.
- Tyres26% of testsRough price £70–£150
At the viewing: Check the tread on all four tyres, including the inside edges, and look for cracks or bulges.
- Exhaust and emissions25% of testsRough price £100–£1,200
At the viewing: Look for black soot in the tailpipe, listen for blowing from the exhaust and check for engine or DPF warning lights.
- Oil and fluid leaks25% of testsRough price £80–£600
At the viewing: Look under the engine and on the ground where the car is usually parked for fresh oil or fluid.
Questions to ask the seller before buying a 1991 Volvo 700 Series
Ask before you travel to see it. A seller who knows the car will have answers, and receipts.
- Can I see the service history and receipts for any big jobs?
Looking at a Volvo 700 Series?
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Other years
Every year of the Volvo 700 Series compared
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 1990 | 724 | Suspension 40% |
Where this comes from: the DVSA's anonymised results for every MOT test done in Great Britain during 2023–2025, counting the MOTs of Volvo 700 Series cars first registered in 1991. "Flagged" includes advisories, so it isn't the same as a fail rate. How we score