2021 Land Rover Defender XS Edition D Mhev A 3.0L Diesel · KY71 AVF

The Defender’s most recent MOT test on 5 November 2025—just seven months ago—confirmed full roadworthiness with no defects recorded at 44,890 miles. This clean history over the past two tests (including the October 2024 pass at 30,064 miles) suggests consistent compliance with MOT standards, though it does not preclude underlying issues that might not have been detected at the time. The absence of advisories or recurring faults implies the vehicle has not been subjected to severe neglect, but the lack of pre-MOT servicing records means critical maintenance—such as suspension bush wear, drivetrain lubrication, or brake hydraulic flushes—cannot be verified. Buyers should treat this as a baseline for further scrutiny rather than a guarantee of long-term reliability. The recorded mileage of 44,890 miles over five years equates to approximately 8,978 miles annually, which aligns with typical usage patterns for a vehicle of this age and model. There are no red flags in the mileage progression, as the gap between tests (14,826 miles between October 2024 and November 2025) is neither unusually long nor short for a Defender, given its robust build and potential for extended intervals between servicing. However, the lack of intermediate MOTs or service records means there is no visibility into whether the vehicle was driven consistently or stood unused for periods, which could impact components like tyres, battery health, or fuel system integrity. Given the sparse MOT history, an in-person inspection should prioritise high-wear areas that often fail silently. Focus on the suspension—particularly the coil springs, bushes, and track arms—for signs of uneven wear or corrosion, as these are common points of failure in high-mileage Defenders. The brake system warrants thorough checking, including disc thickness, caliper binding, and hydraulic fluid condition, as repeated high-speed use could accelerate wear despite the clean MOT passes. Structural integrity should also be assessed, especially around wheel arches, sills, and the underbody, where rust can compromise safety-critical components over time. The absence of advisories does not rule out hidden corrosion or degraded rubber elements, so visual and functional tests of these areas are essential.