2012 Land Rover Defender 2.2L Diesel · DG12 OKT

The vehicle shows a history of developing mechanical wear, particularly regarding the braking system and steering assembly. In the February 2025 test at 140,214 miles, the Defender failed due to extensive corrosion across all four upper brake pipes and a corroded rear brake hose. While the vehicle passed the following day at 140,215 miles after repairs, the record reveals underlying issues that remain, such as slight free play in the steering box and seepage in both swivel joints. The presence of surface corrosion on all suspension and steering components suggests a vehicle that has operated in harsh environments or lacked long-term protection. At 140,215 miles over 14 years, the vehicle averages approximately 10,000 miles per year, which is consistent with typical usage for this age. There is a significant three-year gap in testing records between May 2022 and February 2025, during which the vehicle covered only 288 miles. The 2022 failure at 139,925 miles highlighted a frayed seat belt webbing and a deteriorated anti-roll bar linkage dust cover, issues which were addressed. The long period of inactivity followed by a multi-point failure upon its return suggests the vehicle may have suffered from seized components or rubber degradation while stationary. A prospective buyer should prioritize a thorough inspection of the steering box and swivel joints, as these were flagged for wear in the most recent tests. The recurring mention of brake pipe corrosion indicates that the hydraulic system requires close monitoring to prevent future failures. Additionally, the offside front seat belt webbing and buckle have been previously noted as damaged, so the buyer must ensure these have been replaced to meet safety standards. While the surface corrosion on the chassis is common for this model, the structural integrity of the frame must be verified to ensure the rust has not progressed beyond surface level.