2012 Land Rover Range Rover 4.4L Diesel · LR60 COB

Recurring structural and hydraulic defects dominate the MOT history of this Range Rover, culminating in a pass on 2025-10-09 that nonetheless carried multiple repeat advisories. The record reveals a pattern of persistent wear across the rear suspension architecture and hydraulic brake lines, alongside prior test failures for severely corroded pipework and critically thin friction material. While the vehicle successfully cleared its most recent examination, the accumulation of recurring component degradation indicates that the mechanical status requires ongoing scrutiny rather than assuming long-term stability. Standing at 110,121 miles over its fourteen-year life, the vehicle has accumulated mileage at a rate of roughly 7,866 miles per year, representing a typical annual usage profile for a large luxury SUV. Testing has occurred consistently without unexplained gaps or extended periods off the road, meaning consumables and structural components have faced steady, uninterrupted exposure to weathering and road use. This regular deployment explains the gradual progression of corrosion and mechanical wear noted across successive annual inspections rather than sudden deterioration from prolonged static storage. Inspection during a prospective purchase must concentrate heavily on the rear suspension and structural mountings flagged in recent test records. The 2025 MOT noted worn rear subframe pins or bushes alongside wear in the outer bushes of both nearside and offside rear upper suspension arms, accompanied by light oil misting on both rear shock absorbers. On a test drive, listen carefully for clunks, knocks, or excessive lateral movement when cornering or traversing uneven road surfaces, and feel for any vague steering response or instability at the rear axle that would confirm advanced bush degradation. Furthermore, check the operation of the air suspension system across all height settings to ensure the dampers and associated pneumatic components are functioning correctly despite the reported oil misting. Brake line integrity and subframe condition require rigorous physical examination underneath the vehicle, given the history of major and dangerous failures regarding corroded hydraulic lines and structural members. The 2024 testing cycle involved multiple failures for excessively corroded front-to-rear brake pipes positioned above the rear subframe, while advisories highlighted corrosion on the inner sill mounting areas and the rear subframe itself. When test driving, inspect the firmness and travel of the brake pedal to rule out spongy operation or pressure loss, and verify that the parking brake engages smoothly. A comprehensive ramp inspection is strongly advised prior to purchase to assess the exact thickness of the subframe metal and confirm the condition of all replaced or remaining hard brake lines.