2006 Land Rover Range Rover 4.2L Petrol · A7 NUY

The most recent MOT test, conducted on 2026-02-05, resulted in a clean pass with no recorded defects, marking a positive turnaround from the previous year’s failures. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of persistent suspension-related issues, particularly in the lower front and rear suspension arms and components, which caused major failures in 2025. These failures were preceded by advisories in 2020 and 2021—such as deteriorating rear suspension arm bushes, corroding rear suspension arms, and excessive play in the offside front lower ball joint—that suggest long-standing wear and potential structural degradation. While the vehicle passed subsequent MOTs, the recurring nature of these defects indicates that the suspension system has been under significant stress, likely due to heavy or irregular loading, poor alignment, or lack of timely servicing. This history underscores the need for a thorough inspection of the suspension assembly, as further deterioration could compromise ride quality, handling, and even structural integrity over time. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 108,738 miles at the time of this assessment is unusually low for its age, standing at approximately 5,437 miles per year. Such a low annual mileage is atypical for a 20-year-old vehicle, particularly one of this model’s robustness, which typically accumulates far greater mileage under normal use. The discrepancy may reflect periods of prolonged inactivity, such as storage in a garage or limited operational use, which can exacerbate issues like corrosion, fluid degradation, and component stiffness. However, it also raises concerns about potential misuse—such as excessive towing, rough road conditions, or improper loading—which could accelerate wear on suspension, drivetrain, and structural components. The low mileage alone does not negate the need for a rigorous inspection, as standing vehicles are particularly susceptible to corrosion in joints, seals, and fluid systems, which can lead to unexpected failures during use. Given the vehicle’s MOT history and the recurring suspension advisories, the buyer should prioritise a detailed inspection of the suspension system, focusing on the lower arms, ball joints, and rear suspension components. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises such as clunks or rattles from the front and rear suspension, particularly when navigating bumps or corners, as these may indicate worn or broken suspension arms, bushings, or damaged coil springs. Inspect the suspension for excessive play or binding, which could suggest compromised ball joints or worn bushings. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may reveal misalignment or suspension misalignment caused by the existing issues. If the suspension appears to be the primary concern, consider replacing the front and rear suspension arms, along with the ball joints and bushings, to restore proper ride height and handling. Beyond suspension, verify that the vehicle’s tyres are free of sidewall damage or perishing, which can compromise safety, and ensure that the exhaust system is free from leaks or corrosion that could affect emissions and structural integrity. For a vehicle of this age and mileage profile, even with a clean MOT history, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection beyond the MOT scope. Check the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur from prolonged exposure to the elements without use, and ensure the tread depth meets legal requirements. Inspect the brake system for signs of corrosion on discs or binding calipers, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, as standing can cause moisture to accumulate and accelerate corrosion. Verify the condition of the 12-volt battery and associated electrical components, as low usage can lead to battery degradation or failure. Fluid levels should be checked, including the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant, with particular attention to their freshness and colour—old fluids can degrade over time, even with low mileage. Finally, review the service history, if available, to confirm that time-based servicing such as valve adjustments, timing belt replacement, and fluid top-ups have been conducted according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. If the vehicle has been stored for long periods, consider a thorough fluid flush and a check for any moisture ingress that could lead to rust or corrosion in critical areas.