2004 Land Rover Discovery 2.7L Diesel · KW04 UDN

The 2.7‑litre diesel engine in the 2004 Discovery typically achieves around 30–35 mpg in mixed driving, meaning fuel costs will be a notable part of the annual outlay, especially if the vehicle is used for longer journeys. Road tax for a diesel Discovery of this size falls into Band D (£210 per year as of 2026), and the insurance group is usually around 35, leading to moderate premiums.

Maintenance on older Land Rovers can be higher than average, particularly when corrosion and suspension components need attention. Based on the recurring MOT failures, you should budget for potential suspension repairs (£800‑£1,200) and steering rack work (£600‑£1,000) over the next few years. A realistic estimate for total annual running costs, including fuel, tax, insurance, and routine maintenance, is roughly £1,200‑£1,500.

Inspect the rear suspension arms closely for rust and structural integrity, as the MOT recorded corroded lower arms (both nearside and offside) and worn upper arm pins in 2023, 2024 and 2025. Look for any signs of cracking or excessive play, and ask for evidence of any recent repairs or corrosion treatment.

Check the steering rack for play, especially on the offside front inner joint, which was flagged in every MOT from 2023 onward. A test of steering feel at low speed and a visual inspection of the rack mounts can reveal whether the issue has been resolved or is likely to worsen.

Finally, verify all exterior lamps – the nearside rear registration plate lamp, offside front position lamp, and offside rear registration plate lamp were all recorded as inoperative in the 2025 MOT. Ensure the bulbs work and the wiring is sound, as recurring lamp failures can point to poor grounding or corrosion in the lighting circuits.