2006 Land Rover Range Rover Sport 2.7L Diesel · AF06 EXV

The most recent MOT test conducted on the 2006 Land Rover Range Rover Sport occurred in March 2022, where it failed despite passing the same test just one month prior. This pattern indicates a recurring issue with wheel bearings and suspension components, with each test revealing persistent advisories for slight play in the near-side and offside rear wheel bearings and the near-side front wheel bearing. Additionally, the near-side front lower suspension arm ball joint dust cover was severely deteriorated, and there was a previous failure in 2017 for excessive play in the near-side rear tie bar/rod. While the vehicle has not failed due to these mechanical issues in subsequent MOTs, the consistent presence of advisories suggests a deteriorating suspension system that requires closer attention. The lack of further failures implies that the vehicle’s maintenance history may have addressed some of these concerns, but the wear progression indicates that these components are nearing critical limits and will likely fail again if not serviced promptly. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 237,302 miles for a 20-year-old Range Rover Sport aligns with a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 11,865 miles per year, which is typical for its age. However, the MOT history reveals that the vehicle was tested at intervals of roughly one year, suggesting periods of either stationary or low-activity use, which can accelerate wear on components like wheel bearings and suspension elements due to standing corrosion and fluid degradation. The significant gap between the 2017 failure and the 2020 MOT—where no defects were recorded—could indicate a brief period of inactivity, potentially exacerbating issues like corrosion in standing suspension components or fluid breakdown in hydraulic systems. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, the wear on wheel bearings and suspension bushes is expected, but the frequency of advisories suggests that the owner may have delayed necessary servicing, placing the vehicle at higher risk of a catastrophic failure if these components are not addressed soon. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the wheel bearings, suspension bushes, and tie rods, as these have been flagged repeatedly. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises such as grinding or whining from the wheels, particularly when cornering or at low speeds, which may indicate bearing failure. Check for excessive play in the steering wheel or suspension when the vehicle is in motion, which could signal worn suspension components. Visually inspect the suspension arms and tie rods for signs of excessive wear, such as cracked or broken bushings, and ensure there is no binding or excessive movement when the vehicle is driven over bumps. The near-side rear tie bar/rod failure in 2017 highlights the importance of addressing suspension components promptly, as their failure can lead to steering instability or loss of control. Additionally, verify that the wheel bearings are securely mounted and that there is no excessive run-out or wobble in the wheels, which could indicate further bearing or hub component issues. Beyond the mechanical concerns, the vehicle’s tyre condition is a notable advisory from the 2021 MOT, with both front tyres worn close to the legal limit and worn on the edges, which may suggest underinflation, excessive wear patterns, or poor alignment. Inspect the tyres for signs of uneven wear, such as central grooving or cupping, which could indicate misalignment or suspension issues. The front windscreens show minor damage that does not affect visibility, so this is not a cause for concern but should be noted for potential future repairs. Given the vehicle’s age, check the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise tyre integrity and safety. For fluid systems, consider a comprehensive service check, including the brake fluid, differential fluid, and transmission fluid, as these fluids degrade over time and can lead to performance issues or failure if not replaced. Finally, assess the battery health, as a 20-year-old vehicle is likely to have a degraded or failing 12V battery, which could cause starting issues or electrical gremlins. A simple battery voltage check and inspection for corrosion on terminals would be prudent. The overall maintenance trend suggests that the vehicle’s suspension and wheel bearing systems are the primary areas requiring immediate attention, but a thorough inspection and potential servicing will be essential to ensure roadworthiness and longevity.