2016 Land Rover Range Rover Sport 3.0L Diesel · CB 1100

The most recent MOT test, conducted on 2026-01-08, confirms the vehicle passed without any recorded defects, marking a continuation of a stable maintenance record over the past year. While the absence of failures is encouraging, the persistent advisory regarding rear brake pad wear—recorded in five out of the last six MOTs—suggests a gradual but concerning trend. This recurring advisory, particularly the mention of near-side rear brake pads being thin in 2020, indicates that the braking system is under significant stress, likely due to either prolonged use, inefficient braking habits, or a design or installation issue that exacerbates pad consumption. The vehicle’s age and the cumulative effect of these advisories warrant cautious optimism, but the buyer should treat this as a critical area requiring proactive attention to avoid premature brake failure or compromised stopping performance. The recorded mileage of 52,307 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents a remarkably low annual usage rate of around 5,231 miles per year, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this class and age. Such low mileage often correlates with periods of prolonged inactivity, particularly if the vehicle has been stored in a garage or kept in a stationary condition for extended periods. However, this usage profile does not necessarily mean the vehicle is free from wear and tear; standing vehicles can suffer from issues such as brake disc corrosion, binding caliper pistons, or fluid degradation due to stagnation. The low mileage may mask more severe wear in components like suspension bushes, exhaust systems, or drivetrain seals, which can degrade over time regardless of usage. The buyer should be particularly vigilant about checking for signs of standing corrosion on brake components, seals, and the undercarriage, as well as verifying the condition of fluids that degrade more quickly when unused, such as brake fluid and differential fluid. Given the clean MOT history in the last two years and the low mileage usage profile, the buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection to address potential age-related and standing-related concerns. Begin with the tyres, paying close attention to the sidewall for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise structural integrity and safety. Inspect the 12V battery for signs of corrosion around terminals, poor connections, or reduced charge retention, as older batteries in stationary vehicles are more prone to failure. The brake system should be scrutinised for any signs of corrosion on discs, particularly near the rear where the vehicle has been stationary, which can lead to binding or reduced braking efficiency. Listen for any unusual noises during a test drive, such as grinding from worn pads or clunks from suspension bushes or broken springs, and check for fluid leaks under the vehicle, especially around the differential, transmission, and exhaust manifold. Additionally, since the vehicle has not been driven extensively, the condition of fluids like coolant, oil, and brake fluid should be evaluated for time-based degradation, with a recommendation to have them serviced or replaced if they appear old or contaminated. The recurring rear brake pad advisory is the most pressing issue to address immediately. The thin pads indicate that the braking system is nearing or has already exceeded the safe operational limits for pad thickness. On a test drive, listen for a grinding noise when applying the brakes, which is a clear sign of metal-to-metal contact between the pads and discs, often resulting from excessive wear. If grinding is present, the pads should be replaced promptly to prevent damage to the discs and to maintain safe stopping distances. The buyer should also verify that the brake system is functioning uniformly across all four wheels, checking for uneven wear patterns or binding, which could indicate misalignment or warping of discs. Given the history, it is advisable to have the rear brake system inspected by a qualified mechanic to assess the condition of the discs, calipers, and master cylinder, ensuring that the braking performance is consistent and reliable. If the pads are replaced, the buyer should consider a full brake fluid flush to remove any contaminants that may have accumulated over time, especially given the vehicle’s stationary usage.