2015 Land Rover Defender 2.2L Diesel · OW15 GVE

The 2.2-litre TDCi diesel engine returns a claimed combined fuel economy of around 25-28 mpg in real-world driving, though heavily loaded or off-road use will reduce this significantly. Road tax falls into a higher band than many modern vehicles due to the Defender's older emissions standard, and insurance is typically in groups 25-30, which is on the higher side for a vehicle of this size.

Annual maintenance costs for an older Defender are often higher than buyers expect, particularly for genuine Land Rover parts and main-dealer servicing. Budget for higher-than-average workshop labour rates given the specialist knowledge required, and allow for occasional unplanned repairs on items such as cooling system components, electrical faults, and chassis wear. A realistic annual running cost including fuel, tax, insurance, and servicing is approximately £2,800-£3,500 for a vehicle of this age and mileage.

The aggregate model data identifies brake pipes, headlamps, and brake discs as the top three MOT failure reasons for the Defender range, none of which have appeared as advisories on this vehicle's history. Even so, all brake-related components — including flexible hoses, calipers, pads, and the master cylinder — should be physically inspected, as these are wear items that deteriorate with age and use. Headlamp condition and alignment should also be checked, particularly given the Defender's age and the likelihood of UV degradation on plastic lenses.

Chassis integrity is the single most important inspection point for any Defender of this vintage. Pay particular attention to the rear chassis cross member, the outriggers, the inner sills, and the area around the spring mounting points. Lift any carpet or trim inside the load area to check for signs of water ingress or corrosion that may not be visible from outside.

For the 2.2 TDCi engine, check for oil leaks from the sump and timing cover, inspect the condition of the cooling system hoses, and verify that the turbocharger operates smoothly without excessive whistle or lag. The six-speed manual gearbox — if fitted — should be checked for any synchro wear, and the transfer box and differential oil levels should be confirmed. Finally, inspect the condition of the underbody protection, as the 2022 MOT noted plastic covers were fitted.