2018 Land Rover Range Rover Sport 3.0L Diesel · AM10 MUG

The most recent MOT test on 2026-05-27 resulted in a passing outcome, but this follows a history of recurring defects that suggest a pattern of wear and maintenance oversight rather than a stable condition. The vehicle failed twice in the past year, with the most recent failure highlighting a critical issue in the nearside front electrical wiring, which poses a risk of disconnection in the suspension/steering area—a defect that could compromise steering responsiveness and safety if left unresolved. Prior to this, the 2025 MOT revealed a nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint with a compromised dust cover, allowing dirt ingress and potential joint failure, alongside an offside front tyre worn close to the legal limit, indicating uneven wear and possible alignment or camber issues. The earlier 2023 MOT failures—including exposed tyre cords and dangerously low brake pads—further underscore a history of neglect in consumable components and tyre management, which, if unaddressed, could escalate into more severe mechanical or safety-related problems. While the 2024 and 2023 tests were clean, the intervening failures suggest the vehicle may not have received timely servicing, particularly for suspension, electrical systems, and tyre rotation or alignment. The recorded mileage of 74,993 miles for a 2018 Range Rover Sport represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 9,374 miles per year, which is within the expected range for its age and class. However, the consistency of this mileage does not necessarily mitigate the wear observed in the MOT history, as the vehicle’s age alone—nearly eight years—has exposed critical components to cumulative stress, particularly in suspension, tyres, and electrical systems. Lower mileage could imply periods of prolonged standing, which exacerbates issues like brake pad corrosion, caliper binding, and tyre sidewall perishing due to exposure to environmental elements. Conversely, higher mileage would accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension bushes, but the current mileage does not justify the severity of the recorded failures, suggesting either inconsistent maintenance or a lack of proactive servicing. The suspension arm ball joint failure and exposed tyre cords are particularly concerning, as they indicate either poor maintenance practices or underlying mechanical wear that could lead to further damage if not addressed promptly. Given the recurring MOT defects and the vehicle’s age, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough mechanical inspection to confirm the condition of the nearside front electrical wiring and suspension components. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises such as clunking or rattling from the suspension, particularly when navigating bumps or corners, which could indicate a failing ball joint or loose suspension arm. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, as the prior MOT advisory suggests potential alignment or camber issues, and visually inspect the tyres for exposed cords or tread depth—any exposed cords are a severe safety hazard and require immediate replacement. Inspect the brake system for signs of binding calipers, excessive brake dust, or corrosion on discs, which could explain the low brake pad condition noted in previous tests. Additionally, examine the front suspension for excessive play or binding in the steering column, as the electrical wiring failure could affect steering feel and responsiveness. If the wiring is confirmed to be insecure, the buyer should insist on a professional assessment to prevent future disconnections and potential steering failure. For the buyer’s practical inspection, focus on the vehicle’s age and the historical wear patterns rather than relying solely on mileage. Check the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or cracking, which can occur even with moderate mileage due to prolonged exposure to UV light and environmental stress. Verify the condition of the 12V battery and starter motor, as standing vehicles can lead to corrosion or failure in these components, and test the electrical system for any signs of intermittent faults or poor connections. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion, particularly around the catalytic converter and tailpipes, as this can affect emissions and structural integrity. Ensure that the service book is up to date, as the vehicle’s age suggests it should have undergone scheduled maintenance for fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid) and filters, which degrade over time regardless of mileage. Finally, confirm that the vehicle has been serviced for suspension components, such as coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes, as these are critical for ride quality and safety. If the buyer is unable to locate service records, they should arrange a professional inspection to address the outstanding MOT failures and prevent further deterioration.