2004 Land Rover Defender 2.5L Diesel · 73 TN

A pattern of intermittent brake-related advisories followed by a period of clean test results defines the mechanical record for this Land Rover Defender. While the most recent test on 14 January 2026 resulted in a pass with no defects, the history shows recurring issues with the rear braking system throughout 2022 and 2023. Specifically, advisories noted pitted, scored, or worn rear brake discs, indicating a period of component degradation before the most recent successful inspections in 2024 and 2026. The vehicle exhibits a notably low usage profile for its age, having covered only 47,759 miles over approximately 22 years. This averages to roughly 2,171 miles per year, which is significantly below the standard annual mileage for a vehicle of this type. Mechanically, such infrequent use can lead to specific issues such as tyre flat-spotting or the degradation of rubber components and seals due to prolonged periods of inactivity, though the MOT records do not explicitly flag any such failures. Prospective buyers should focus their physical inspection on the braking system to ensure the previous issues with the rear discs have been fully rectified. During a test drive, pay close attention to any pulsations or judder through the brake pedal when applying pressure, which could indicate uneven disc wear or warped rotors. Additionally, listen for any grinding or squealing noises from the rear wheels during low-speed manoeuvres, as this would suggest that the previously noted disc wear or potential pad issues have not been adequately addressed. The 2021 advisory regarding a nearside front tyre worn close to the legal limit suggests that tyre maintenance has been reactive rather than proactive in the past. While the recent records are clean, a thorough inspection of all four tyres is necessary to check for uneven wear patterns, which can indicate underlying suspension or alignment issues. Check for any pulling to one side during straight-line driving or any irregular scrubbing on the tyre treads, as these symptoms would point toward worn suspension bushes or steering linkages that may not have been captured in the recent MOT passes.