2018 Land Rover Range Rover 2.0L Hybrid electric (clean) · LB18 AOY

The most recent MOT test on 2026-05-12 resulted in a clean pass, indicating no defects were found at that time. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories and one failure, suggesting that while the vehicle has maintained roadworthiness, underlying wear issues have persisted over time. The two prior MOTs in 2025 and 2024 each recorded multiple advisories—particularly concerning rear brake pad wear, tyre edge wear, and suspension component degradation—which indicate ongoing mechanical stress on critical systems. The failure in 2022 highlighted a severe tyre defect with exposed cords, a condition that would have rendered the vehicle unsafe if unaddressed, reinforcing the need for vigilance in monitoring wear progression. This trend suggests that while the vehicle has passed recent tests, the owner should be proactive in addressing the identified advisories before they escalate into more costly or dangerous failures. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 55,725 miles at an age of approximately eight years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of around 6,966 miles per year, which is typical for a vehicle of this class under mixed driving conditions. However, the gap between the 2022 failure and the 2023 clean MOT—nearly two years without an MOT—could imply either prolonged stationary use or a period of reduced mileage, potentially leading to additional issues such as standing corrosion, fluid degradation, or component stiffness. Conversely, if the vehicle has accumulated more miles than typical, the wear on consumables like brakes, tyres, and suspension components may be more advanced than expected. The suspension advisories from 2025, particularly the near-side lower arm bush wear, could also indicate that the vehicle has undergone significant lateral forces, potentially from rough roads or heavy loads, which accelerate bush and arm fatigue. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the brakes, tyres, and suspension, given the recurring advisories. The rear brake pads are wearing thin, which may require replacement within the next 1,000–2,000 miles if driving continues at current rates, as further reduction in pad thickness could lead to metal-to-metal contact, excessive heat, and reduced braking efficiency. Listen for a grinding or squealing noise when applying the rear brakes, especially when braking from moderate speeds, as this would confirm impending pad failure. The tyre advisories—particularly the near-side rear tyre with exposed cords—demand immediate attention; this tyre should be replaced without delay, as exposed cords compromise tyre integrity and increase the risk of sudden blowouts. Inspect the tyre tread depth and sidewall condition, noting any signs of uneven wear or cracks, which could indicate alignment or suspension issues. In addition to the above, conduct a thorough physical inspection of the suspension and fluid systems. Visually check the front and rear suspension arms for signs of excessive play or binding, which could worsen with further use. The suspension clunks or rattles when driving over bumps or corners may indicate worn bushes or broken linkages, and addressing this promptly can prevent further damage to the vehicle’s frame or drivetrain. Inspect the brake discs and calipers for corrosion, binding, or uneven wear, as prolonged standing or infrequent use can cause rust to form on the discs, leading to reduced braking performance or caliper binding. Verify the condition of the 12V battery, as prolonged inactivity can cause corrosion on terminals or a decline in battery capacity, which may require replacement before it fails completely. Lastly, check the fluid levels and condition of the engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid, ensuring they are topped up and free of contaminants. Given the vehicle’s age, a comprehensive service check—including timing belt replacement if applicable, if not done within the last 100,000 miles—should be scheduled to address any calendar-based wear or fluid degradation.