2006 Land Rover Range Rover Sport 4.2L Petrol · LS06 UBU

The most recent MOT, conducted on 23 December 2025, was passed but flagged several advisories, notably moderate wear on both front and rear brake discs, tyre tread approaching the legal minimum on the off‑side front and rear tyres, and surface corrosion beneath the chassis. Over the preceding three years the record has moved from clean passes in 2020 and 2021 to a series of escalating faults: fluid‑level warnings and a minor exhaust leak in 2022, lighting failures and heat‑shield deterioration in late 2023, a dangerous tyre tread depth, severely worn front suspension arm bushes and an excessive transmission oil leak in late 2024, and now only advisory items in 2025. The pattern is clearly one of deteriorating condition rather than stabilising, indicating that several key components have not been rectified and are likely to require attention soon. At 134,088 mi the vehicle averages roughly 6,700 mi per year, which sits comfortably within the typical usage envelope for a twenty‑year‑old Range Rover Sport. The mileage does not suggest extreme abuse, but the intermittent gaps between MOTs and the presence of multiple low‑mileage‑related faults (such as tyre cracking and corrosion) imply periods of prolonged inactivity. Extended standing can accelerate rubber hardening, battery sulphation and under‑body rust, while also allowing fluid seals to dry out, which aligns with the observed suspension fluid and power‑steering fluid deficiencies. A prospective buyer should give particular focus to the front suspension arm bushes, which were recorded as excessively worn in 2024. On a test drive these should be probed for clunking or looseness when the steering wheel is turned sharply or when the vehicle is driven over bumps; any play may indicate that the bushes are near the end of their service life and will need replacement. The transmission oil leak noted as dangerous in the 2024 test must be inspected visually for fresh oil spots under the rear of the vehicle and the level of the gearbox oil checked; a leaking seal can quickly lead to insufficient lubrication and eventual gearbox failure, so a thorough leak‑source diagnosis and seal replacement are advisable. Brake disc wear on both axles is already close to the limit, so the buyer should measure the remaining disc thickness and expect disc (and possibly pad) replacement within the next few thousand miles, watching for any brake shudder or pedal pulsation during deceleration. Tyres on the front and rear axles are flagged as near‑limit and, in the case of the nearside front tyre, show cracking; these should be replaced promptly, and the new set should be monitored for uneven wear that could point to alignment or suspension issues. Beyond the recurring defects, the vehicle shows signs of age‑related deterioration that merit systematic checks. The surface corrosion under the chassis should be examined for any progression into structural members, especially around the rear subframe and suspension mounting points. The heat shields on both the fuel tank and exhaust system are reported as corroded or loose; these should be inspected for rust penetration and secure mounting, as failure can lead to excess heat transfer to surrounding components. All exterior lighting units failed in 2023, so the wiring harnesses and bulb sockets must be verified for integrity and proper operation. Given the vehicle’s age, the 12 V battery should be load‑tested, and the electrolyte level inspected if it is a conventional lead‑acid type. Finally, a review of the service book for evidence of regular oil, filter and coolant changes, as well as any timing‑chain service notes, will help confirm that the engine’s internal wear has been managed appropriately.