2004 Land Rover Defender 2.5L Diesel · OO54 DJP

The Land Rover Defender presents as roadworthy following its most recent MOT pass on 26 November 2025 at 159,260 miles, with no defects logged. The maintenance trend is stable across the recorded history, though the pattern of a failed test immediately followed by a pass on identical mileage in both 2024 and 2025 suggests administrative or minor pre-test corrections rather than progressive mechanical decline. No advisories or structural concerns appear in any entry from 2023 to 2025. Recorded mileage rose from 154,284 in October 2023 to 156,775 by November 2024, then to 159,260 by November 2025, equating to roughly 2,500 miles per year over the final two years. This sits well below the ~7,239 annual average for a 22-year-old vehicle, implying light recent use. The clean record with no corrosion, suspension, or brake defects across all five tests indicates the previous keeper maintained basic test compliance, but the sparse entries leave drivetrain and chassis condition unverified between inspections. A buyer should physically inspect the chassis rails, bulkhead, and outriggers for structural rust, as Defenders of this era commonly suffer hidden corrosion not captured in a pass-with-no-defects result. The repeated fail-then-pass sequence at 156,774 and 159,260 miles on consecutive weeks warrants confirmation that no binding calipers, worn suspension bushes, or exhaust emissions faults were masked by a quick retest. Given the low annual mileage, check for perished seals, stale brake fluid, and standing-water damage to the drivetrain. In-person checks should prioritise the front axle swivel housings, rear coil springs, and steering drop arm for wear consistent with off-road use. The absence of advisories does not equate to zero wear on a 159,260-mile utility 4x4. A pre-purchase inspection beneath the vehicle remains essential before commitment.