1990 Land Rover Range Rover 3.9L Petrol · H143 CGX

The most recent MOT on 18 May 2026 was passed, but it carried a series of advisories covering brake bind on both the near‑side front and rear wheels, a small chip in the windscreen, a bent rear anti‑roll bar bracket, perished suspension bushes and widespread surface corrosion on the floor, sills, chassis and suspension members. Compared with the 2025 MOT, the number of advisories has risen, indicating a gradual decline in the vehicle’s condition rather than an improvement. Earlier tests in 2023, 2011 and 2006 showed no recorded defects, so the current trend reflects emerging wear and corrosion after many years of low‑usage storage. At 125 730 mi for a 1990 model the average annual mileage works out to roughly 3 500 mi, which is well below the typical 10 000–12 000 mi per year for a vehicle of this age. The low utilisation suggests long periods of inactivity, which often accelerates rubber and polymer ageing, promotes surface rust and can allow oil leaks to go unnoticed. There are no large mileage spikes that would point to heavy duty use, but the combination of age and intermittent use means that many wear items will be at the end of their service life regardless of the relatively modest odometer reading. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the suspension system. Perished bushes will manifest as clunking or looseness when negotiating bumps, especially on the front and rear anti‑roll bar mounts. The bent rear anti‑roll bar bracket may allow the rear axle to move under load, producing a vague sway or uneven tyre wear. Inspect the bushings for cracked or shredded rubber, check for any play in the anti‑roll bar mounting bolts, and verify that the rear suspension arms are free of excessive movement. The brake bind noted on both front and rear wheels can cause a dragging sensation, increased pedal effort and premature pad wear; a thorough brake inspection should include checking for seized caliper pistons, corroded slide pins and uneven disc wear. Any oil leak advisory warrants a visual check for fresh oil on the valve cover, oil pan and around the front and rear main seals, as persistent leaks can lead to low oil levels and engine wear. Given the vehicle’s age, the buyer must also examine time‑related items that are not mileage‑dependent. The tyre sidewalls should be inspected for cracking, dry rot or hardening of the rubber, especially if the car has been stored for long periods. Verify that the 12 V battery holds a charge and has no excessive sulphation, as old batteries often fail under load. Look for rust on the chassis and under‑body panels; surface corrosion is common but should not be deep enough to compromise structural integrity. Finally, confirm that the cooling system, brake fluid and gear‑oil have been replaced at appropriate intervals – fluids degrade with time even if the car is not driven much. A full service history, including any recent replacements of bushes, brakes or anti‑roll bar components, will give confidence that the vehicle’s mechanical health has been proactively managed despite its age.