2021 Land Rover Defender S D Mhev Auto 3.0L Diesel · MA55 LEE

The most recent MOT, carried out on 3 August 2026, was passed but returned two advisories concerning the front and rear brake discs, both described as worn, pitted or scored yet not seriously weakened. Over the preceding three years the vehicle has passed each test without recorded defects, indicating a generally stable maintenance record; however the emergence of brake‑disc advisories suggests that wear on the braking system is now approaching the point where replacement will be required. At five years old the Defender has logged 67 469 miles, equivalent to roughly 13 500 miles per annum. This is considerably above the average for a vehicle of its age and points to a relatively high level of component utilisation. The elevated mileage accelerates wear on consumables such as brake pads, discs, tyres, suspension bushings and drivetrain oil, and it also increases the likelihood of fatigue‑related issues in the chassis and steering geometry. There are no obvious gaps in the MOT chronology, so the mileage appears to have been accumulated steadily rather than in long periods of inactivity. Prospective buyers should give the brake system close attention. Inspect the discs for deep scoring, excessive rust or heat‑related cracking, and verify that the pads have sufficient remaining thickness. During a test drive listen for any pulsation, squeal or shudder when applying the brakes, especially under moderate to heavy braking, and watch for a wobble in the pedal travel that could indicate disc distortion. An ABS fault light or intermittent warning may also appear as the discs thin further, so a diagnostic scan for any stored codes is advisable. Planning for a full disc and pad replacement within the next few thousand miles would be prudent to avoid a future MOT failure. Beyond the brakes, examine the tyre sidewalls for age‑related cracking or dry‑rot, as the vehicle’s mileage suggests the tyres may be approaching the end of their service life regardless of tread depth. Check the suspension components—particularly the control‑arm bushes, coil springs and shock absorbers—for any signs of leakage, looseness or uneven ride height, and listen for clunks over bumps. Verify the condition of the 12‑volt battery, especially if the car has spent periods standing, and confirm that the electrolyte levels and charge are healthy. Finally, ensure that the service book records regular oil, filter and coolant changes at the manufacturer‑specified intervals, and inspect the brake fluid, power‑steering fluid and transmission fluid for discoloration or moisture, as time‑based degradation can occur even with modest mileage. A thorough visual and tactile inspection combined with a competent test drive will give a clear picture of the Defender’s current roadworthiness and any imminent maintenance that should be budgeted for.