2002 Land Rover Discovery 2.5L Diesel · KD52 AOK

This Discovery has maintained a consistent roadworthiness record over the past four MOT cycles, with no defects or advisories recorded in any of the tests conducted between January 2022 and March 2026. The most recent inspection on 2 March 2026, at 144,804 miles, confirms the vehicle remains within legal limits for all tested systems, though the absence of any recorded issues does not preclude underlying wear—particularly in components not routinely scrutinised under MOT, such as internal suspension bushes or drivetrain joints. The lack of advisories suggests previous owners adhered to basic maintenance, but the vehicle’s age (24 years) demands scrutiny of high-mileage wear areas. The mileage progression of approximately 6,000 miles annually is typical for its age, with no abrupt jumps or prolonged stagnation. The recorded mileage increments—ranging from 3,082 miles between the 2025 and 2026 tests to 3,157 miles between 2023 and 2024—indicate steady use without extended periods of disuse, which could have exacerbated corrosion or fluid degradation. However, the sparse MOT history means there are no data points to assess whether intermediate servicing was performed, leaving critical components like the transfer case, differentials, or cooling system open to potential neglect. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, a buyer should prioritise an in-person inspection of the suspension for worn or leaking bushes, particularly at the track arms and subframes, where failure can compromise handling and structural integrity. The brakes, though not flagged in MOTs, warrant close examination for uneven wear, glazed linings, or binding calipers—common in high-mileage vehicles. Corrosion checks are essential, focusing on wheel arches, sills, and the underbody, where rust can compromise the chassis or fuel tank. Finally, the cooling system should be tested for leaks or coolant degradation, as overheating in a 2002 model with extended use is a significant risk. The absence of MOT advisories does not guarantee the vehicle is free from deferred maintenance, so a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is strongly advised to verify the condition of non-tested components. The clean MOT history is a positive indicator of compliance with legal requirements, but the Discovery’s age demands thorough scrutiny of wear items and structural soundness.