2004 Land Rover Discovery 2.5L Diesel · PW04 AGW

The most recent MOT record from March 2022 shows this 2004 Land Rover Discovery passed with multiple advisories but no critical fails, suggesting a stable but neglected maintenance trend. The vehicle’s mileage has remained virtually unchanged—146,082 to 146,083 miles—over two consecutive tests just four days apart, indicating it was likely stationary or driven minimally in the preceding months. While the March 2022 pass was technically compliant, the failure on the 28th for a non-working position lamp and a split CV boot on the nearside front driveshaft joint reveals a pattern of deferred repairs. The advisories—oil seepage, power steering fluid leakage, corroded brake pipe, and worn track rod end—persist without correction, implying either a lack of proactive maintenance or a previous owner prioritising short-term compliance over long-term reliability. The vehicle’s mileage of 146,083 over 22 years aligns with typical low-to-moderate usage, averaging around 6,640 miles annually, which is unremarkable for its age. The absence of mileage progression between the two 2022 tests, however, raises questions about its recent operational history. Such stagnation could reflect long-term storage, infrequent use, or even potential odometer tampering—though the latter would require further verification. The lack of earlier MOT records makes it impossible to assess whether these issues are chronic or newly developed, but the repeated failures and advisories in such close succession suggest a vehicle that has not been subject to systematic checks. For a prospective buyer, the most pressing concerns lie in the driveshaft CV boots, which were flagged as split or insecure in the failed test—this risks premature joint wear and potential failure. The corroded offside front brake pipe, covered in grease, demands immediate inspection for fluid leaks or structural compromise, as corrosion in this area can lead to hydraulic failure. The track rod end ball joint with slight play should be checked for excessive wear, as this can affect handling and alignment. Additionally, the persistent oil and power steering fluid leaks indicate seals or gaskets requiring replacement, while the damaged windscreen—though not obstructing vision—may have compromised structural integrity if cracks have propagated. The vehicle’s suspension and drivetrain components show signs of deferred maintenance, with the most critical areas being the driveshaft boots and brake system integrity. A thorough pre-purchase inspection should include a road test to assess steering responsiveness, brake performance, and any unusual noises from the front suspension. The absence of recent MOT tests beyond 2022 means the buyer cannot rely on official records for current condition, making a professional inspection essential before commitment.