2018 Land Rover Range Rover Sport 5.0L Petrol · A 22

The most recent MOT, carried out on 17 August 2026, was passed, with only an advisory concerning the off‑side front registration plate. However, the failure recorded just five days earlier on 12 August 2026 for a non‑functioning engine malfunction‑indicator lamp (MIL) indicates a recent deterioration in the engine management system. The intervening years show a string of clean passes, but the abrupt failure suggests the maintenance trend has shifted from stable to potentially problematic and warrants immediate diagnostic attention before the vehicle is relied upon for regular use. With a recorded 20,947 miles on a 2018 model, the vehicle averages roughly 2,600 miles per year, well below the typical UK usage of 7‑10 thousand miles annually. Such low mileage often points to periods of limited use or prolonged storage, which can be as consequential as high mileage. Infrequent running can lead to fluid oxidation, battery sulphation, and rubber component ageing, while also masking wear that would otherwise be evident under higher mileage conditions. The modest annual accumulation reduces the likelihood of wear‑related failures in the drivetrain and suspension, but it raises the importance of inspecting items that degrade with time rather than distance. The engine MIL fault must be investigated with a full OBD‑II scan to identify whether the issue lies with a faulty sensor, wiring fault, or a deeper ECU problem. A persistent or intermittent fault can affect emissions compliance, fuel economy and throttle response, and may re‑trigger a MOT failure if not resolved. The front tyre advisory recorded in 2021 and 2022 notes a cut that has not reached the ply; visual inspection should confirm that the cut has not progressed, that the tread depth remains above 1.6 mm, and that the tyre’s DOT code indicates it is less than six years old, as ageing rubber can become brittle even with low mileage. The deteriorated front registration plate should be replaced promptly to avoid future readability issues and to keep the vehicle compliant with legal requirements. Given the vehicle’s age and low‑use profile, a thorough visual and tactile examination is advisable. Check all tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or ageing, especially on the front tyres where cuts were previously noted. Inspect the battery for signs of sulphation, low electrolyte levels or a high internal resistance; a load test or a modern digital tester will confirm its capacity. Examine the brake discs and pads for surface rust, uneven wear or seized calipers that can result from long periods of inactivity. Verify the condition of suspension bushings, coil springs and anti‑roll bars for any corrosion or loss of compliance, and ensure that all fluid reservoirs (engine oil, coolant, brake and power‑steering) contain fresh, correctly coloured liquids and have been changed in line with the manufacturer’s time‑based service intervals. A complete service history, including any recent engine management repairs, will further substantiate the vehicle’s roadworthiness before purchase.