2014 Land Rover Freelander 2.2L Diesel · OU14 XEV

The most recent MOT, carried out on 5 November 2025, was passed but returned a series of advisories concerning corrosion of the front and rear sub‑frames, the lower suspension arms and the near‑side front lower arm. The previous year’s test also passed with similar corrosion advisories and a note of slight ferrule corrosion on the off‑side rear brake hose. A major failure was recorded in November 2024 when the near‑side front coil spring fractured; this appears to have been remedied before the 2025 test. Overall the maintenance trend can be described as stable – the vehicle has been kept road‑worthy after the coil‑spring repair, but the recurring corrosion advisories indicate a chronic issue that has not been fully resolved. At 86,589 miles the vehicle averages just over 7 200 miles per annum, which is typical for a 2014 model. The mileage record shows no periods of unusually high use that would suggest accelerated wear, nor does it indicate long stretches of inactivity that might have allowed components to deteriorate from standing. Consequently the wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension bushings should be consistent with its age and mileage, but the low annual mileage does not preclude the need for age‑related checks, especially on parts that degrade with time rather than distance. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the sub‑frame and lower suspension arm condition. Inspect the mounting points for any pitting, cracking or loss of material beyond surface rust, and feel for any looseness or clunking when the vehicle is pushed over bumps or when the steering is rocked at a standstill. The repaired near‑side front coil spring should be examined for signs of fatigue, uneven spacing or abnormal bounce, and the other springs should be checked for corrosion or sag. The off‑side rear brake hose, noted as slightly corroded at the ferrule, should be examined for swelling, cracking or fluid leakage; any brake pedal feel that is spongy or a loss of pressure could indicate hose degradation. Tyre tread should be measured across all four wheels, with particular reference to the near‑side rear tyre that was previously close to the legal limit; look for uneven wear patterns, sidewall cracking or dry‑rot, especially as the tyres are now approaching a decade of age. During a test drive listen for any metallic clunk from the suspension, a wandering feel that could point to worn track‑rod end dust covers, and ensure the brakes apply firmly without judder or pull. Finally, verify that all lighting functions correctly – the headlamps, main and dipped beams, and the rear registration plate lamp – and that the headlamp aim is within specification, as past failures in this area suggest possible wiring or alignment issues. Check the 12 V battery voltage and conduct a load test, as a 12‑year‑old battery may be nearing the end of its service life. Examine fluid levels and condition: engine oil should be clear and at the correct level, coolant should be free of oil contamination, and brake fluid should be changed at least every two years to avoid moisture uptake. A full service history, including any replacement of the coil spring and any rust‑treatment work, will give further confidence that the vehicle has been maintained appropriately for its age and mileage.