Before a used Volvo earns the Certified by Volvo badge, it must pass one of the most demanding evaluations in the luxury automotive industry. Discover what our factory-trained technicians check to ensure your next vehicle meets uncompromising safety and performance standards.
The Certified by Volvo 170+ point inspection is a comprehensive, factory-mandated evaluation covering a vehicle's exterior, interior, powertrain, safety systems, and documentation.
To qualify, a vehicle must meet strict age and mileage requirements (under 80,000 miles) and possess a clean CARFAX® Vehicle History Report. From there, a factory-trained technician evaluates over 170 individual items, from the thickness of the brake pads to the software powering the infotainment system.
If any component falls short of Volvo's precise tolerances, it is either restored or replaced using Genuine Volvo Parts. If an issue cannot be resolved to factory standards, the vehicle simply does not become Certified by Volvo.
Our technicians leave nothing to chance. Here is a breakdown of the key categories covered during the Certified by Volvo evaluation.
The exterior is evaluated for structural integrity and cosmetic quality. Technicians check all body panels, bumpers, glass, and exterior lighting. They also verify that the wheels are free from significant damage and that tire tread depth meets strict safety standards for optimal grip.
A premium vehicle must feel premium inside. We inspect the leather or textile upholstery, headliner, and carpeting for excessive wear. All interior electronics—including climate control, heated seats, the infotainment touchscreen, and audio systems—are tested for perfect functionality.
Under the hood, the engine, transmission, and cooling systems undergo deep scrutiny. For Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) and fully electric models, high-voltage batteries and charging ports are tested to ensure they deliver reliable power and efficient charging.
Safety begins with stopping power and control. Technicians measure brake pad thickness and rotor condition. The suspension system, shocks, struts, and steering components are checked to ensure they deliver the smooth, controlled ride Volvo is famous for.
Volvo's advanced safety technology is tested meticulously. This includes verifying the functionality of parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring (BLIS), lane-keeping aids, and the Pilot Assist system. We ensure all software is up to date before the vehicle reaches the lot.
A vehicle can look perfect in the service bay, but its true condition is revealed on the road.
The final phase of the 170+ point inspection is a comprehensive road test conducted by our certified technicians. During this test, the technician evaluates the vehicle's dynamic performance, monitoring for specific attributes that define a luxury driving experience.
Driving in New England presents unique challenges. From harsh winter salt to spring potholes on Route 3, local roads demand a vehicle that is structurally sound and mechanically flawless.
When you purchase a Certified by Volvo vehicle at Volvo Cars Plymouth, you know that the heating systems have been verified for winter, the All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system has been tested for traction, and the battery has been checked for reliable cold-weather starting. The 170+ point inspection removes the guesswork from buying a used luxury vehicle in the South Shore.
The inspection is performed exclusively by factory-trained Volvo technicians at authorized dealerships like Volvo Cars Plymouth. These technicians have the specialized training and diagnostic tools required to properly evaluate modern Volvo systems.
Absolutely. We value transparency. When you visit Volvo Cars Plymouth, you can request to review the completed inspection checklist and the CARFAX® Vehicle History Report for any Certified by Volvo vehicle on our lot.
If a vehicle fails any part of the inspection, the issue must be repaired using Genuine Volvo Parts. If the issue is severe, structural, or cannot be repaired to factory standards, the vehicle is rejected and will not be sold as a Certified by Volvo model.
Yes. The inspection checklist is adapted to include critical checks for Volvo Recharge models. This includes evaluating the high-voltage battery health, testing the electric motors, and verifying the functionality of the charging port and cables.
Yes. During the certification process, if routine maintenance is due or if wearable items like tires, wiper blades, or brake pads fall below Volvo's strict depth/thickness standards, they are replaced before the vehicle is listed for sale.
Information in this guide reflects official Certified by Volvo standards, which mandate a 170+ point inspection, strict mileage limits, and the use of Genuine Volvo Parts.
Experience the confidence of a rigorously inspected, fully backed luxury SUV, sedan, or wagon. Visit Volvo Cars Plymouth today to explore our premium selection of Certified by Volvo models.