2018 Land Rover Range Rover Sport 2.0L Hybrid electric (clean) · AM05 JXM

The most recent DVSA examination on 25 September 2025 returned a Pass with no defects recorded, which immediately resolves the failure logged just one day earlier on 24 September 2025. That earlier test failed with an Engine Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) inoperative or showing a malfunction under section 8.2.1.2 (h), and the fact that the vehicle subsequently passed the following day strongly suggests the issue was rectified, likely through a diagnostic reset, a sensor replacement, or repair to the emissions management system, rather than representing an unresolved or recurring drivetrain fault. Looking at the broader picture across the last four years, the vehicle has consistently passed its annual MOT examinations with no advisories or defects recorded beyond the previously noted under-tray and engine cover advisories in 2021. The maintenance trend therefore appears stable and reassuringly free of any recurring or progressive defects in core safety-related areas such as braking, suspension, steering, or structural integrity. With approximately 44,228 miles recorded over an 8-year period, this vehicle is averaging around 5,500 miles annually, which is notably low for a Land Rover of this age and suggests either predominantly short-trip or light leisure use, or extended periods of standing between drives. While low mileage reduces wear on major mechanical components such as the engine internals, clutch, and gearbox, it does place greater emphasis on calendar-based degradation. Fluid systems are particularly susceptible to age-related deterioration rather than mileage-based wear, so any prospective buyer should anticipate that brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid will all require attention according to time intervals rather than simply mileage. The gap between the May 2021 test and the April 2022 test, and again between 2022 and 2023, suggests periods of potentially low use, which is consistent with the mileage profile observed. Given this low-mileage, part-standing use pattern, a careful physical inspection is essential. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall perishing and cracking, as rubber compounds degrade with age regardless of tread depth, and any tyres older than five or six years from their DOT date code should be replaced even if they appear serviceable. The braking system warrants particular attention for brake disc corrosion, which commonly forms on vehicles that stand for prolonged periods, and the caliper slide pins should be checked for seizing or binding that could cause uneven pad wear or pulling under braking. The 12V battery should be load-tested, as low-mileage use with frequent short trips rarely allows full recharge, and a weakened battery can also trigger MIL illumination through voltage irregularities, which is worth bearing in mind given the recent fault. Equally, the underside of the vehicle should be examined with the under-trays removed to inspect for fluid leaks, corrosion on suspension components, and the condition of the coil springs and bushes, which are common advisory areas on vehicles of this age. On a test drive, listen carefully for any irregular engine idling, hesitation, or warning lamp illumination that could indicate an unresolved emissions or sensor issue linked to the recent MIL failure. Listen for suspension clunks or knocking over uneven surfaces, which can indicate worn anti-roll bar bushes, drop links, or air suspension components on the Range Rover Sport platform. The transmission should shift smoothly through all ranges without delay or shunt, and any warning messages on the infotainment or instrument cluster should be queried in detail. Finally, verify the full service history stamps, ensuring that oil and filter changes have been carried out at appropriate intervals, and confirm that any time-based services such as brake fluid replacement and coolant renewal have been performed, as these are frequently overlooked on low-mileage vehicles and can lead to long-term component damage if neglected.