2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport 3.0L Diesel · OV12 EFR

This 2012 Range Rover Sport presents an unusually clean DVSA roadworthiness record across its four recorded tests, with the most recent examination on 30 January 2026 returning a pass and zero advisories, and the three prior tests on 5 November 2024, 13 April 2023 and 6 June 2022 following suit without a single defect noted. The absence of any advisories, monitored defects or failure items over a roughly four-year testing window suggests that, from a statutory inspection standpoint, the vehicle has consistently met the minimum standards for brakes, tyres, suspension, lighting, exhaust emissions and structural integrity. While a clean MOT history is a positive indicator, it is worth noting that the MOT test is a point-in-time check rather than a comprehensive mechanical survey, and a 145,780-mile Range Rover Sport of this generation would typically be expected to display at least some advisory items relating to consumable wear, so a degree of caution is warranted regarding what may have been replaced between tests without being recorded. The recorded mileage of 145,780 miles over approximately 14 years equates to an annual accumulation of around 10,413 miles, which sits squarely within the typical range for a vehicle of this age and class. The testing pattern shows a 2012 model first appearing on the MOT record in mid-2022, suggesting either a change of ownership prompting re-registration on the system, a period off the road, or simply that earlier test data was not captured. The gaps between tests (2022 to 2023, 2023 to 2024, and 2024 to 2026) are broadly consistent with annual mileage of between 10,000 and 15,000 miles per year, with no sudden spikes or implausibly low figures that might indicate clocking or extended periods of inactivity. Mechanically, this steady usage profile is favourable for a complex SUV of this type, as regular driving helps preserve drivetrain seals, prevent brake component seizure and maintain battery health, though the high absolute mileage still places significant wear load on the engine, transmission, air suspension and four-wheel-drive components that the MOT does not specifically evaluate. Given the clean advisory record, there are no specific components from the DVSA history to target, but a prospective buyer should nonetheless conduct a thorough physical inspection focused on areas commonly affected on high-mileage L494-generation Range Rover Sports. The air suspension system is a known service item on this platform, so listen for the compressor running excessively on startup, observe whether the vehicle settles overnight, and check for any warning messages on the infotainment display. On the test drive, pay close attention to the front suspension for any knocking or clonking over speed bumps, which can indicate worn lower wishbone bushes, front subframe bushes or anti-roll bar drop links. Steering should be precise without vibration or pulling, and the transmission should change smoothly without hesitation or shunt, particularly under gentle throttle around 30 to 50 mph. Listen for any whining from the transfer box or differentials on light throttle, and check that the Terrain Response system cycles through its modes without error messages. At this mileage, the braking system, whilst not flagged on the MOT, warrants close physical scrutiny: inspect the inner and outer faces of all four discs for lipping, corrosion or scoring, as a clean MOT test does not necessarily mean the discs are within the manufacturer's preferred service limits. Examine the underbody for any oil residue from the engine, transfer case or differentials, and check the exhaust system for corrosion, particularly around the mounting points and the DPF area, as Land Rover diesels of this era can suffer from injector and EGR-related issues. Confirm the service history thoroughly, with particular attention to evidence of recent timing chain replacement, air suspension compressor or strut refurbishment, and any gearbox oil changes, as these are the costly items that, if neglected, could turn a clean-looking MOT record into a significant financial commitment for the next owner.