2008 Land Rover Range Rover 4.2L Petrol · CU08 LDA

A consistent pattern of advisory notes relating to wear items, combined with the latest test flagging deteriorated constant velocity boots on both front drive shafts, defines the mechanical story of this 2008 Range Rover. Across four consecutive annual tests the vehicle has remained free of major structural or safety failures, yet it has rarely passed completely clean. The advisory list documents front brake disc pitting with thinning pads in 2024, an engine oil leak in 2023, and premature front tyre edge wear in 2022. The 2025 test was the only blemish-free result, and the most recent 2026 pass has reverted to recording defects, this time categorised as minor rather than advisory. The overall trajectory suggests a vehicle that is fundamentally roadworthy but is showing progressive age-related deterioration in drivetrain and braking components, which is typical for a luxury SUV of this vintage operating in the UK climate. Recorded mileage of 119,381 miles across eighteen years equates to an annual average of roughly 6,600 miles, which sits comfortably within the expected band for a vehicle of this age. There are no gaps in the MOT history that would suggest the vehicle has been laid up for extended periods, and no sudden jumps in recorded mileage that might indicate clock irregularities or unusual usage. This steady, moderate accumulation pattern is mechanically favourable compared with very low-mileage alternatives that often suffer from deteriorated rubber, seized components, and stale fluids, yet it has still been sufficient to wear out front brake discs and pads and to fatigue the CV boot rubber on both sides. The vehicle has therefore been used regularly enough to keep mechanicals working but not so heavily as to suggest commercial or high-stress operation. A prospective buyer should focus the inspection on the drivetrain and braking system given the recurring advisories. With both front outer CV boots now recorded as severely deteriorated, the joints themselves may already be contaminated or running low on grease, and any clicking on full lock or vibration through the steering under load would indicate imminent joint replacement. The 2024 advisories for pitted front discs and thin pads mean a brake refresh is overdue, and the buyer should check for brake judder under firm pedal application, as well as visible lipping on the disc edges. On the test drive, listen for any clonking from the front suspension over bumps, as Range Rovers of this era are prone to worn lower control arm bushes and ball joints that may not yet have been flagged but typically accompany the brake and CV wear pattern shown here. The 2023 oil leak advisory warrants a close inspection of the engine bay and undertray for fresh residue. While the leak was not classed as excessive at the time, oil leaks on the 4.4-litre V8 diesel and 4.6-litre V8 petrol units commonly fitted to this model frequently originate from the front crank seal, timing cover, or sump gasket, and a two-year-old advisory may have developed into something more pressing. Check for any blue smoke on start-up, particularly from cold, and inspect the underside for active drips. The front tyre edge wear noted in 2022 points to potential tracking geometry issues, so verify that the steering is centred and the vehicle does not pull to either side under braking or acceleration. Finally, although no corrosion advisories have been recorded, a careful inspection of the rear cross member, jacking points, and outriggers is essential on any Range Rover of this age, as structural rust commonly develops independently of the MOT advisory cycle.