2004 Land Rover Range Rover 2.9L Diesel · NJ04 AAY

A remarkably clean DVSA history defines this 22-year-old Range Rover, with five tests on record returning a single failed attempt in early March 2026 immediately followed by a pass just fourteen days later. Across nearly four years of documented testing there are no advisories recorded, which is highly unusual for a vehicle of this age and platform, where corrosion of the rear cross-member, air suspension components, and front lower arms are common findings. The absence of any flagged defects suggests either an exceptionally well-presented example or one whose testing history predates the period of record, as a 22-year-old Land Rover would typically have accumulated a longer MOT footprint. The most recent test on 18 March 2026 was a clean pass with no defects recorded, confirming the vehicle met all roadworthiness requirements at that point. Mileage accumulation on this vehicle is exceptionally low, with just 59,617 miles recorded over 22 years, equating to roughly 2,710 miles annually. This figure is well below the typical mileage profile for a working luxury SUV and reflects either genuine light use or, more likely given the Land Rover's character, extended periods of standing. Gaps between tests are notable, with two-year and longer intervals separating several examinations, consistent with a vehicle that may have spent significant time off the road between SORN periods or limited seasonal use. Mechanically, this low annual mileage carries mixed implications: while major drivetrain components may show limited wear, prolonged standing often accelerates deterioration of rubber bushes, air suspension bellows and dry joints, brake calipers seizing due to corrosion on stationary discs, and deterioration of seals throughout the drivetrain. For a prospective buyer, the lack of advisories should not be interpreted as proof of underlying mechanical condition, particularly given the Land Rover's known susceptibility to rust in the rear chassis outriggers, jacking points, and front subframe mounting areas, none of which may have been specifically highlighted if recent repairs have been carried out prior to test. On any inspection, particular attention should be paid to the air suspension compressor operation and reservoir condition, as failure of these components is a common and costly Range Rover issue. Examine the vehicle on level ground and listen for the compressor cycling, checking whether the suspension raises smoothly to ride height within a reasonable period after start-up. Lift the vehicle and inspect the rear chassis legs and cross-member for bubbling paint or visible perforation, as corrosion in these structural areas can compromise safety and is often hidden by underseal. During a test drive, focus on the characteristic symptoms of age-related wear in this model. Listen for clonking or knocking from the front suspension over bumps and uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn lower wishbone bushes or anti-roll bar drop links, both known wear items. Feel for any vibration through the steering wheel under braking, suggesting warped front discs, and check for pulling to one side which may indicate a binding caliper or uneven brake pad wear following a period of standing. Test the transfer box and centre differential engagement, as any hesitation, shudder, or warning light illumination points to expensive drivetrain repairs. Finally, inspect the exhaust system from beneath for blue smoke on start-up indicating valve stem seal wear, and verify all warning lamps extinguish promptly after ignition, as the Range Rover's complexity means electronic faults can be both common and costly to diagnose.