2022 Land Rover Defender X-Dynamic S D Mhev A 3.0L Diesel · BC22 CPZ

A four-year-old Defender showing only 38,449 miles and a generally clean MOT history, with the most recent test on 27 August 2026 recording a pass accompanied by brake-related advisories on both axles. Across the two recorded tests, the only defects noted are the front and rear brake disc advisories from the latest examination, which is a typical pattern for a vehicle of this age and weight class but does indicate measurable wear on the braking surface. The 2025 test was completely clean with no advisories or failures, so the overall trajectory is stable rather than worsening, although the appearance of disc wear advisories after a previously clean record suggests the braking system is now entering a stage where component condition warrants closer scrutiny at the next inspection. As this Defender is a D X-DYNAMIC S D MHEV A with mild-hybrid architecture, the brake-by-wire regenerative system should also be considered: heavy reliance on regenerative braking can leave the friction discs and pads prone to surface corrosion, which is consistent with the pitting and scoring flagged on both axles. The annual mileage of roughly 9,612 miles is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age, sitting close to the average accumulation rate rather than representing either unusually light or heavy use. With only two MOT tests on record for a four-year-old vehicle, the testing cadence reflects normal first-certification timing at three years of age and the subsequent annual test, with no gaps suggesting long periods off the road. The moderate usage means wear on consumables such as brake components, tyres and suspension bushes will accumulate gradually, and the brake disc advisories already observed align with what would be expected from this mileage profile combined with the kerb weight of a Defender. Importantly, the absence of any corrosion advisories, suspension component defects, or structural concerns across both tests points to no underlying chassis or subframe deterioration at this stage. For a prospective buyer, the brake disc advisories on both axles are the most actionable items to investigate, even though they were recorded as not seriously weakened. On a test drive, listen for any grinding or scraping noise from the brakes that would suggest the discs have worn beyond their service limit, and feel for brake pedal judder or vibration through the pedal under firm application, which can indicate disc runout or uneven wear. Visually inspect the visible edges and faces of the front and rear discs through the wheel spokes for pronounced lipping, deep scoring, or rust pitting that has progressed beyond surface corrosion, as the advisory wording suggests the discs may already be near the discard thickness threshold for the next MOT. Given the Defender's mass, check that the vehicle pulls straight under moderate and heavy braking without steering deviation, which could indicate a binding caliper or uneven pad transfer associated with disc wear. Beyond the braking system, attention should turn to the components commonly stressed on a Defender of this profile and mileage. The independent coil-sprung suspension uses rubber bushes in the radius arms, anti-roll bar links and rear trailing arms, so on the test drive listen for clonking or knocking noises over speed humps, uneven road surfaces, and during tight low-speed manoeuvres, and check for any looseness or wandering from the steering on a motorway section. Inspect the underside for any oil seepage from the engine, transfer box, or front and rear differentials, as even light misting can be identified during a road test by a faint burning smell after extended driving. Finally, examine the underside exhausts and suspension subframes for any bubbling or surface corrosion, since the clean MOT history provides no evidence of structural concern but a physical inspection remains essential given Defender underbody exposure to road salt and off-road debris.