2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport 3.0L Diesel · OU14 XCZ

The most recent MOT test on 2026-02-25 resulted in a clean pass, marking a positive turnaround from the two consecutive failures in late 2024 and early 2025. While the vehicle has not faced any critical failures in the past year, the recurring advisories—particularly around brake wear and suspension components—suggest a pattern of gradual but persistent degradation. The fact that these advisories have persisted across multiple MOTs indicates that while the vehicle remains roadworthy, several components are approaching or have exceeded their expected service life. The improvement in the latest test outcome is encouraging, but the buyer should remain vigilant, as these advisories may require proactive intervention to prevent further wear or potential safety issues. The 2014 Range Rover Sport’s recorded mileage of 120,323 miles over approximately 12 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 10,027 miles per annum, which is typical for its age and class. The absence of significant mileage spikes or prolonged periods of inactivity suggests consistent, albeit not extreme, driving conditions. However, the wear advisories—especially on brakes and suspension—are more pronounced than one might expect at this mileage, hinting at either heavier usage in certain areas or cumulative stress from frequent short trips or standing in traffic. The offside front tyre failure in 2023, for instance, was a major defect, indicating that tyre wear patterns may have been uneven or that the vehicle was subjected to rough road conditions. This underscores the importance of a thorough inspection to confirm whether the remaining tyres are evenly worn or if further deterioration is imminent. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a pre-purchase examination are the brakes, suspension, and tyres. The thin brake pads and worn brake discs—particularly on the front and rear—demand immediate attention. On a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel or a grinding sensation when applying brakes, which could indicate worn pads or warped discs. Inspect the brake fluid level and condition; low or discoloured fluid may signal leakage or contamination, both of which can compromise braking performance. The suspension advisories on the front lower arms’ bushes suggest that these components are nearing the end of their service life. Test the vehicle’s handling by performing a few sharp turns and observing for excessive clunking or binding, which could indicate worn suspension bushes or damaged coil springs. Visually inspect the suspension for any signs of oil leaks around bushings or signs of excessive play in the arms. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should also verify the vehicle’s overall structural integrity and fluid condition. Given the vehicle’s age, inspect the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can compromise their safety and longevity. Check the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the 12V system is functioning correctly by testing the starter motor and electrical accessories. The brake discs should be free of corrosion or binding, particularly if the vehicle has been parked for extended periods, as standing can cause moisture to accumulate and lead to rusting. Additionally, while the MOT history is clean in recent years, the buyer should confirm that all scheduled maintenance—such as oil changes, timing belt replacement (if applicable), and fluid servicing—has been recorded in the service book. For a 12-year-old vehicle with its mileage, time-based fluid changes (e.g., brake fluid, differential fluid) are particularly important, as they degrade regardless of mileage. Finally, a professional inspection by a qualified mechanic should be conducted to assess the full condition of the drivetrain, exhaust system, and electrical components, as the history suggests some areas may have been overlooked or neglected over time.