1997 Land Rover Defender 2.5L Diesel · P352 DEJ

The Land Rover Defender passed its most recent MOT on 20 February 2026 at 262,577 miles, but only after an initial failure the same day for insufficient windscreen washer fluid. The maintenance trend is broadly stable. Recurring drag link end ball joint play and a deteriorating front registration plate have persisted across every test since 23 February 2024, yet none escalated beyond slight play or cosmetic deterioration. The owner cleared minor consumable and legal faults promptly, suggesting routine but not exhaustive upkeep. Recorded mileage rose from 248,521 in February 2024 to 254,378 in February 2025, then to 262,577 by February 2026. That equates to roughly 7,000 miles per year over the recorded span, below the lifetime average of 9,054. No gaps or sudden accumulation appear. The sparse three-year history shows clean passes once trivial failures were rectified, implying the vehicle was used lightly and stored between tests rather than worked hard off-road. A buyer should physically inspect the steering drag link ends for ball joint play, present as an advisory at every test from 2024 through 2026. The slight play has not worsened, but at 29 years old the steering linkage likely needs renewal soon. Check the front registration plate for legibility despite the tester noting it was not misread, and verify rear fog lamp operation after its 2025 failure. Confirm windscreen washer function and examine both rear tyres for edge wear, flagged close to the legal limit in 2025. Given the age and 262,577 miles, scrutinise chassis outriggers, bulkhead, and suspension bushes for corrosion and fatigue not captured in these tests. The Defender remains roadworthy per DVSA data, though deferred cosmetic and steering wear points to an owner prioritising minimum legal compliance.