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Official DVLA Record
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2002 Land Rover Discovery 2.5L Diesel · MM51 ABK

MM51 ABK

2002 Land Rover Discovery (2.5L, diesel). First registered 24 Jan 2002. Recorded mileage 124,403 miles. MOT valid until 26 Mar 2027. Taxed until 01 Mar 2027.

Make & Model
LAND ROVER DISCOVERY
Year / Origin
2002 · Manchester & Merseyside
Safety Recall
Unknown
MOT Status
Valid until 26 Mar 2027
Road Tax
Taxed (01 Mar 2027)
Recorded Mileage
124,403 mi
ULEZ Compliance
Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
Fuel & Engine
Diesel · 2.5L
Reliability Guide
Common Faults
MOT Status
Valid
Valid until 26 Mar 2027
Tax Status
Taxed
Tax due 01 Mar 2027
Fuel Type
Diesel
Year
2002
Engine
2495cc
Mechanical Assessment

AI-generated interpretation of this vehicle’s MOT record — not an official statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.

The 2002 Land Rover Discovery demonstrates a deteriorating maintenance trend, with recurring suspension and corrosion issues persisting across multiple tests. The most recent MOT on 2026-03-27 recorded a pass but highlighted worn anti-roll bar linkages, corroded radiator supports, and minor oil leaks. These advisories mirror findings from earlier tests, including excessive suspension ball joint wear in 2026-02-25 and structural corrosion in 2024-02-15. While the vehicle remains roadworthy, the persistence of these faults suggests neglect in addressing critical components, particularly the suspension system and underbody integrity. The mileage of 124,403 miles over 24 years equates to an average of 5,183 miles annually, reflecting light usage but also potential periods of inactivity. MOT records show consistent testing every 12–14 months, with no significant gaps. However, the 2025-03-20 test revealed minor suspension wear, which escalated to severe ball joint failure by 2026-02-25. This progression indicates that maintenance was deferred, allowing wear to accumulate. The low mileage does not mitigate the risk of age-related degradation, particularly in rubber components and corrosion-prone areas like the underbody. A buyer should prioritise inspecting the suspension system, focusing on ball joints, anti-roll bar linkages, and radius bushes for excessive play or wear. The corroded radiator support and ACE pipes require scrutiny for structural compromise, while the parking brake’s 50% efficiency in 2026-03-26 raises safety concerns. Seat belt pretensioners missing in 2026-03-26 tests also demand verification, as their absence could impact occupant safety. These issues collectively signal a vehicle in need of targeted mechanical attention to ensure long-term reliability.
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MM51 ABK Key Findings

  • 5 MOT tests recorded
  • Latest MOT passed on 27/03/2026
  • 124,403 miles recorded at latest MOT
  • 2 historical MOT failures
  • 5 defects noted at the latest MOT
  • Recurring suspension items (12 mentions)

Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.

MM51 ABK MOT History

Vehicle record last updated: 17 Sept 2026, 15:27
MOT Analysis

Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.

5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2002 Land Rover Discovery (MM51 ABK) between February 2024 and March 2026.

The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.

The most recent test on 27 March 2026 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.

Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Suspension (12 issues), Lighting (6 issues), Brakes (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.

In total 20 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.

Recorded failure items include: “Offside Front Position lamp not working outer (4.2.1 (a) (ii))”; “Nearside Rear Seat belt pretensioner missing where fitted as original equipment (7.1.4 (a))”; “Central Rear Seat belt pretensioner missing where fitted as original equipment (7.1.4 (a))”.

PASS
FAIL
ADVISORY

MM51 ABK Mileage History

  1. 15/02/2024118,225 mi
  2. 20/03/2025121,360 mi+3,135 mi
  3. 25/02/2026124,393 mi+3,033 mi
  4. 26/03/2026124,403 mi+10 mi
  5. 27/03/2026124,403 mi

Average of roughly 2,927 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.

Technical Specifications

May be subject to ULEZ charges

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MOT Roadworthiness Analysis
65
/ 100 · Average
DVSA Test Records Evaluated

MOT Roadworthiness: Average

This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.

Valid MOT
Taxed
Average MOT pass rate (60%)
1 dangerous defects found recently
Older vehicle
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Experian Provenance Data

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OUTSTANDING FINANCE

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INSURANCE WRITE-OFF

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POLICE STOLEN (PNC)

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SALVAGE & AUCTION

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IMPORTED RECORD

Import Register

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EXPORTED MARKER

Export Register

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SCRAPPED RECORD

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CERTIFICATE OF DESTRUCTION

Statutory CoD

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V5C LOGBOOK & KEEPERS

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Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory

Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.

Buying Score
42/100
Risk Level
High
High
Est. Annual Cost
£2,200-£3,000
Mileage
The mileage of 124,403 is below average ...

Our Verdict

Proceed with extreme caution. While the mileage is relatively low for its age, the recent MOT history reveals significant structural corrosion and systemic suspension wear that suggest a vehicle struggling with age.

Prioritise a thorough inspection of the chassis and bodywork. The MOT history specifically mentions corrosion on the radiator support, underside structure, and seat belt anchorages, which are red flags for a vehicle of this era. Ensure you verify that the seat belt pretensioners and anchorages have been properly repaired, as these caused multiple failures in early 2026.

Negotiate the price based on the remaining advisories. The vehicle currently has noted oil leaks and corroded ACE suspension pipes. Request full service records to see if the timing belt and water pump have been replaced recently, as these are critical maintenance items for the 2.5L diesel engine that are not captured in MOT data.

As a 2.5L diesel from 2002, this Discovery will have higher tax brackets and lower fuel efficiency compared to modern SUVs. Expect significant fuel consumption, especially if used for off-roading or towing, and insurance costs typical for a large, older 4x4.

Maintenance costs are likely to be high. The MOT history shows a recurring need for suspension bushings, ball joints, and corrosion treatment. Given the age and the specific issues with the ACE system pipes, annual maintenance will likely exceed that of a standard passenger car.

Focus heavily on the suspension and chassis. The MOT history lists repeated issues with the Watts linkage, radius arm bushes, and ball joints. Check for any signs of fluid leaks around the ACE suspension pipes, which were flagged as corroded in 2025 and 2026.

Inspect the interior and safety systems carefully. The February and March 2026 failures specifically highlighted missing or failing seat belt pretensioners and corroded anchorage points. Ensure these have been professionally rectified and are not just 'patched' over. Finally, check the radiator support and underside for the corrosion noted in the 2024 and 2026 tests.

This 2002 Red Land Rover Discovery (2.5L Diesel) has covered 124,403 miles. Recent MOT data from 2026 shows a pattern of failures related to seat belt anchorage corrosion, parking brake inefficiency, and widespread suspension wear. Despite passing its most recent test, several 'advisories' regarding corrosion and oil leaks remain, indicating a vehicle in need of ongoing maintenance.

This era of Discovery is known for complex suspension systems and susceptibility to chassis corrosion in the UK climate.

Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.

Data Sources

DVSA

Official MOT test logs & failure reasons

DVLA

Tax, registration & powertrain specs

Experian

Finance, stolen markers & total loss

AI Analysis

Historical fault & advisory patterns