2009 Land Rover Defender 2.4L Diesel · AF59 XMS

The most recent DVSA MOT test conducted on 19 August 2025 resulted in a PASS with no defects or advisories recorded, indicating that the vehicle met the statutory roadworthiness requirements on the date of examination. The wider history demonstrates a broadly stable maintenance profile, with passes recorded in August 2022, August 2024, and August 2025. The single failure listed at 14 August 2023 was immediately followed by a pass on the same date, which strongly suggests that the failure was either minor, administrative in nature, or rectified on site prior to re-examination. There are no recurring advisories on the record relating to suspension components, braking condition, exhaust integrity, tyres, or corrosion, which is reassuring, although it should be noted that a clean MOT record reflects only the point-in-time condition examined under test conditions and does not guarantee the absence of developing faults between tests. The recorded mileage of 138,863 miles across approximately seventeen years equates to an annual average of around 8,168 miles, which is broadly typical for a working or leisure-oriented Defender of this era. There are no significant gaps in the mileage progression between recorded tests, indicating that the vehicle has been in consistent, regular use rather than left standing for extended periods. This kind of steady utilisation is generally beneficial for mechanical longevity, as regular running helps preserve drivetrain lubrication, prevents internal corrosion in the engine and ancillaries, and keeps the braking and suspension systems free from the seizing and binding issues commonly associated with stationary vehicles. Given the cumulative mileage, however, wear-related deterioration of consumables and major components should be anticipated, particularly within the chassis, axles, and driveline. Given the clean MOT history and the vehicle's age, prospective buyers should focus on age-related deterioration that may not be captured under standard MOT testing. The tyres should be inspected closely for sidewall perishing and cracking, which is common on older vehicles and can compromise structural integrity even where tread depth appears adequate. The chassis and underbody should be examined for surface corrosion, particularly around the box-section rails, cross members, and suspension mounting points, as Defenders of this generation are known to be susceptible to rust in load-bearing areas. Brake discs should be checked for corrosion pitting and lipping, and the calipers should be assessed for smooth operation to confirm they are not binding, while the condition of the brake fluid should be verified as it degrades over time irrespective of mileage and typically requires replacement on a calendar basis. The 12V battery should be load-tested, as prolonged standing or low-intensity use can reduce its service life, and all fluid levels including coolant, gearbox oil, transfer box oil, and differential oil should be inspected for condition and contamination. On a test drive, particular attention should be paid to the suspension for any knocking or clonking noises from the bushes, shock absorbers, and anti-roll bar linkages, as well as signs of uneven tyre wear which may indicate geometry issues or worn components. The steering should be checked for excessive play or wandering, and the clutch should be assessed for slippage or a high biting point, which on high-mileage Defenders can indicate approaching replacement. The transfer box and gearbox should be operated through all ranges to confirm smooth engagement, and the vehicle should be driven under load to verify that there are no unusual noises from the differentials or propshaft universal joints. The exhaust system should be examined for blowing gases at joints or corrosion damage, and the cooling system should be monitored for stable operating temperature. Finally, verifying a full service history with documented evidence of cambelt, fuel filter, and routine fluid changes will provide additional assurance given its seventeen years of service.