2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport 2.0L Diesel · FH67 CFM

The most recent MOT recorded on 21 January 2022 resulted in a failure, the report citing a major defect for service brake efficiency below the required standard and a major rear‑brake imbalance on axle 2. The earlier entry for the same date showing a pass with no defects appears to be an administrative duplicate; the definitive outcome is the failure. This indicates a deterioration in the braking system since the prior test and suggests that the overall maintenance trend is currently worsening rather than stable or improving. At 68 581 miles the Discovery Sport has averaged just over 8 500 miles per annum over its eight‑year life, which is broadly in line with typical usage for a family SUV. The mileage does not point to excessive short‑trip abuse or unusually high annual distances, but it does mean that wear items such as suspension bushings, CV joints, and drivetrain components have been subjected to a moderate amount of load over a considerable period. There are no obvious mileage gaps that would imply long periods of storage, so age‑related degradation rather than mileage‑driven wear should be the primary focus. Given the brake‑related failures, a prospective buyer should have the entire braking system examined by a competent mechanic. Inspect the front and rear brake pads for thickness and uneven wear, and check the condition of the discs for scoring, glazing or excessive rust, which can impair heat dissipation. The rear‑brake imbalance may stem from a sticking or seized caliper, uneven pad wear, or a faulty proportioning valve; a test drive should reveal any pull or shudder when applying the brakes, especially under moderate deceleration. Brake fluid should be tested for moisture content and replaced if it exceeds the 2‑year service interval, as contaminated fluid can reduce hydraulic efficiency and contribute to the observed efficiency shortfall. Beyond the brakes, the vehicle’s age warrants a thorough visual and tactile inspection of age‑sensitive components. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or age‑related perishing, even if tread depth appears adequate, and verify that the tyre age (DOT code) does not exceed six years. Check the suspension for worn rubber bushings, cracked coil springs or signs of corrosion on the sub‑frame, which can manifest as clunks or uneven ride height. The 12‑volt battery should be load‑tested, as eight‑year‑old units often suffer from reduced cranking power. Verify that the service book shows regular oil, filter and coolant changes at the manufacturer’s intervals; if service stamps are missing, anticipate a comprehensive fluid flush and a fresh oil change. Finally, inspect the exhaust system for rust or perforations and ensure all emissions‑related components, such as the catalytic converter and EGR valve, are free from leaks, as these can affect both performance and future MOT compliance.