1991 Land Rover Defender 2.5L Diesel · H176 APW
1991 Land Rover Defender (2.5L, diesel). First registered 01 Jun 1991. Recorded mileage 111,616 miles. MOT valid until 25 Nov 2026. Taxed until 01 Dec 2026.
- Make & Model
- LAND ROVER DEFENDER
- Year / Origin
- 1991 · Bournemouth
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 25 Nov 2026
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Dec 2026)
- Recorded Mileage
- 111,616 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- DIESEL · 2.5L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
H176 APW Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 21/11/2025
- 111,616 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (4 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
H176 APW MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 1991 Land Rover Defender (H176 APW) between November 2021 and November 2025.
The record contains 5 passes and 0 failures.
The record shows no MOT failures, although 12 advisory notices note items to monitor.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Brakes (4 issues), Lighting (4 issues), Tyres (3 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 12 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
H176 APW Mileage History
- 26/11/202174,277 mi
- 25/11/202282,958 mi+8,681 mi
- 24/11/202390,615 mi+7,657 mi
- 22/11/2024100,348 mi+9,733 mi
- 21/11/2025111,616 mi+11,268 mi
Average of roughly 9,368 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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Known faults for Land Rover Defender (Classic L316)
Our database tracks 4 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Excellent
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution but consider this a
When inspecting this specific vehicle, pay close attention to the braking system. The 2021 MOT history highlighted widespread corrosion on brake pipes across both nearside and offside fronts and rears; you should verify that these have been replaced with modern, corrosion-resistant lines rather than just being cleaned.
Additionally, investigate the steering and drivetrain. The 2025 MOT noted slight free play in the steering box and a worn rear prop shaft joint. Check for any excessive knocking or vibrations when driving, as these are common points of wear on older Defender models. Given the age, ensure the 2.5L diesel engine shows no signs of heavy oil leaks or excessive smoke, and confirm that the chassis has been inspected for the type of corrosion that typically affects this model.
As a 2.5L diesel, running costs will be higher than a modern passenger car. Fuel economy will depend heavily on driving style and load, but expect typical vintage 4x4 consumption. Tax and insurance for a 1991 vehicle are generally more straightforward, though insurance groups for classic Land Rovers can vary based on the driver's profile.
Maintenance costs for a 35-year-old vehicle can be unpredictable. While parts for Defenders are widely available, the recent MOT findings regarding steering and prop shafts suggest that mechanical components will require periodic replacement to remain roadworthy. Estimated annual running costs are moderate for a classic utility vehicle.
Focus your inspection on the underside of the vehicle. The 2021 MOT record shows multiple failures related to corroded brake pipes and distorted wheels, which suggests a history of exposure to harsh conditions. Check the condition of all brake lines and the integrity of the fuel lines.
Secondly, check the steering assembly. The recorded 'slight free play' in the steering box in 2025 is a specific point of interest; test the vehicle at low speeds to see if the play is noticeable or if it affects directional stability. Finally, inspect the tyres and wheels, as the 2021 record noted both tyre perishing and a distorted outer road wheel.
This 1991 Land Rover Defender, finished in green with a 2.5L diesel engine, has covered 111,616 miles since its first registration in June 1991. The MOT history shows a period of no defects between 2022 and 2024, though a significant number of advisories and defects were noted in 2021 regarding brake pipes and tyres. The most recent test in November 2025 recorded wear in the rear prop shaft joint and slight play in the steering box.
Aggregate data for this model shows a 78.1% MOT pass rate, with brake pipe corrosion and headlamp issues being common failure reasons.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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LAND ROVER DEFENDER Model Intelligence & Reliability
Verified MOT failure trends, buying advice, and technical directory specifications.
Owner-reported defects, recurring MOT failure points, and estimated repair costs.
Browse production generations, registration statistics, and trim variants.
Historical MOT pass rates and DVLA records for 1991 model year cars.
- Chassis and Bulkhead CorrosionSerious
The steel chassis and bulkhead rot from the inside out, often hidden by underseal or carpet.
- Oil Leaks from Gaskets and SealsModerate
Worn valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and crankshaft seals cause persistent oil leaks. The rear main seal is particularly prone on later Puma models.
- Electrical Gremlins and Wiring DeteriorationModerate
Corroded bulkhead earthing points and deteriorating wiring harnesses cause intermittent electrical faults including flickering lights, false warnings, and central locking failures.
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