2020 Land Rover Defender First Edition D Auto 2.0L Diesel · IIW 41

The vehicle achieved a clean PASS at its most recent DVSA MOT test on 18 August 2026, with no defects, advisories, or causes for concern recorded by the examiner. Reviewing the broader history, the maintenance trend appears generally stable and positive. The only advisory items were noted at the August 2025 test, where both front inner brake discs were identified as worn but not excessively, and a singular major failure occurred in November 2024 due to an offside front position lamp not working, which was rectified and a pass secured shortly afterwards at the December 2024 retest. With three clean passes in the sequence and no structural, suspension, or emissions advisories present in the record, there is no documented pattern of neglect or escalating mechanical deterioration. Recorded mileage stands at 57,557 miles on a 2020 model, yielding an annualised figure of approximately 9,593 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and sector. There are no significant unexplained gaps between MOT readings, and the progression of mileage between tests appears consistent with regular use rather than extended periods of standing or unusually heavy driving. At this accumulation rate, wear-related items such as brake components, tyres, and suspension consumables will have been worked appropriately, and the absence of mileage-related advisories such as excessive tyre wear or component deterioration suggests the vehicle has not been subjected to neglect or excessive load. Given the recurring advisory on the front inner brake discs at the 2025 test, particular attention should be directed to the braking system during inspection and any subsequent test drive. Inner disc wear on a Defender of this specification can progress to a point where disc replacement becomes necessary, and the buyer should look for signs of brake shudder under heavy application, vibration through the pedal, or uneven pad deposition. It is also worth inspecting both front discs for lipping, checking the condition of the flexible brake hoses for any perishing, and confirming that the caliper slides are free and not binding. A test drive should include multiple firm stops from moderate speed to verify straight-line stability and consistent pedal feel. Beyond the recorded items, the age and mileage profile warrant a number of practical physical checks that are not always captured during MOT testing. The tyres should be examined closely for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with adequate tread depth on a six-year-old vehicle. The underbody, including the aluminium bulkhead and steel subframes, should be inspected for any corrosion, particularly around mounting points and jacking locations. Given Defender electronics complexity, the 12V auxiliary battery should be load-tested, and the owner should be asked to evidence recent servicing of brake fluid, coolant, and the transfer and centre differential oils, as these are time-sensitive rather than mileage-sensitive items. Finally, verify the digital service history within the Land Rover app or main dealer records, and ensure any software updates relating to the infotainment or driveline control modules have been applied.