2014 Land Rover Defender 2.2L Diesel · X90 SCO

The vehicle has maintained a clean MOT record in its most recent test, with no defects recorded at 128,238 miles in June 2026. This suggests that any prior issues have either been addressed or have not progressed to a critical stage. However, the history does reveal a pattern of recurring brake and suspension advisories over the past three years, indicating that while the Defender remains roadworthy, it has required consistent attention to wear items. The front brake discs and pads, in particular, have shown persistent thinning and scoring, while the rear suspension—specifically the shock absorber bushes—was flagged in 2024. These are not catastrophic failures but point to a vehicle that has been driven hard enough to wear out consumables at a steady pace, rather than one that has been neglected. The mileage accumulation aligns closely with typical usage for a 12-year-old vehicle, averaging around 10,686 miles per year, which is neither excessively high nor unusually low. There are no sudden spikes or prolonged gaps that would suggest irregular use or prolonged storage. The most recent MOT, just over a year ago, confirms the Defender has been in regular service, with the 12,206-mile increase between June 2025 and June 2026 reflecting normal annual mileage. The absence of major defects in the latest test further supports that the vehicle has been maintained to a functional standard, though the advisories imply that some wear items were likely addressed between tests. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect in person would be the brake system, particularly the front discs and pads, given their repeated advisories for thinning and scoring. The rear brakes also warrant close examination, as the near-side inner pad was flagged for wear in 2022, suggesting uneven braking load or potential drag. The suspension should be thoroughly checked, especially the rear shock absorbers and their bushes, which were noted as worn in 2024—a component that, if degraded, can affect handling and tyre wear. Additionally, the oil leak from the offside rear hub seal in 2025 should be verified, as persistent fluid loss can lead to more severe drivetrain issues if ignored. While the Defender’s MOT history shows no major structural or safety-critical failures, the recurring advisories on brakes and suspension indicate that this is not a low-maintenance vehicle. A buyer should factor in the cost of replacing worn brake components and suspension bushes, as well as ensuring the hub seal leak has been resolved. The absence of corrosion-related defects in the latest test is a positive sign, but a full underbody inspection for rust—particularly in high-stress areas like the sills and rear axle—would be prudent given the Defender’s age and off-road heritage.