2018 Land Rover Range Rover Velar 2.0L Petrol · LB18 APX

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2018 Land Rover Range Rover Velar was conducted on 2026-07-11 and resulted in a clean pass, marking a positive turnaround from its previous failure on 2026-07-06, where a major fault was recorded under the Engine Management System (MIL) indicating a persistent malfunction. While the 2022 failure concerning the near-side rear indicators, position lamps, and stop lamps remains a notable outlier, the overall maintenance trend from 2022 onward has been stable, with no further major defects reported since the 2022 MOT. The absence of repeated failures in recent years suggests that, despite the 2026 engine-related issue, the vehicle has maintained a generally reliable maintenance record, particularly in the areas of lighting and electrical systems. However, the 2026 MIL failure highlights a critical need for further investigation into the engine control unit or related wiring harness, as persistent faults of this nature can escalate into costly repairs if not addressed promptly. The recorded mileage of 62,517 miles for a vehicle aged approximately eight years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 7,815 miles per annum, which is within the expected range for this model’s class. Such mileage does not inherently indicate excessive wear, but it does warrant careful attention to components that accumulate fatigue over time, particularly the suspension, drivetrain, and braking systems. Given the vehicle’s age and usage profile, any prolonged periods of inactivity—particularly if the engine was left running or the vehicle stood on a flat surface—could have contributed to issues like corrosion in the brake system, particularly the rear calipers or discs, or potential fluid degradation in the cooling or hydraulic systems. Additionally, the under-tray advisory from 2021 suggests that there may be long-term concerns around the vehicle’s structural integrity or potential interference with underside components, which could become problematic if left unaddressed. For a prospective buyer, the most critical immediate actions should focus on the engine management system failure from the 2026 MOT. This indicates a persistent issue that requires a thorough diagnostic check by a qualified Land Rover specialist to determine whether the problem lies in the wiring, sensors, or the engine control module itself. Symptoms to monitor during a test drive include unusual engine behaviour such as rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, or the presence of a persistent warning light. If the fault is confirmed to be minor, such as a faulty sensor, it may be rectifiable at a lower cost, but if it stems from a deeper electrical or mechanical issue, the repair could be significantly more expensive. In the interim, it is advisable to avoid prolonged idling or excessive stress on the engine until the issue is resolved. Beyond the engine, given the vehicle’s age and the recorded mileage, a comprehensive physical inspection is essential. Begin with the braking system, paying particular attention to the rear calipers and discs for signs of corrosion or binding, which are more likely in a vehicle that has stood for extended periods. Check for uneven tyre wear, particularly on the rear tyres, which could indicate misalignment or suspension issues. Inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, a common issue in older vehicles exposed to prolonged sunlight or temperature fluctuations. The battery should be tested for strength, as the vehicle’s electrical demands, especially with modern infotainment systems, can accelerate battery degradation over time. Additionally, fluid levels—particularly the brake fluid, coolant, and differential oil—should be checked, with a note taken on the last service date. Given the under-tray advisory, visually inspect the underside for any signs of rust or damage that could compromise structural integrity or affect the vehicle’s performance over the long term. If the vehicle has been driven regularly, the suspension components, including coil springs and suspension bushes, may show signs of wear, but with the current mileage, this is less critical than in higher-mileage examples. Finally, verify the service book for any time-based maintenance, such as the oil change interval, which for this model should be around every 10,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first.