1996 Land Rover Defender 2.5L Diesel · P464 CFH

This 1996 Land Rover Defender shows a stable but irregular maintenance pattern, with the most recent MOT test occurring just seven months ago on 2025-11-18. Despite two consecutive tests in November 2025—one pass and one fail—no defects were recorded, which suggests either a minor administrative oversight or a brief period of non-operation rather than a mechanical issue. The previous clean passes in November 2024 and December 2023 indicate no recurring failures in core systems, though the lack of advisories or defects in any test leaves no insight into wear patterns. The vehicle’s last fail in December 2023 was also without recorded issues, reinforcing the impression of either sporadic use or a history of passing tests without addressing underlying concerns. The recorded mileage of 117,653 miles over roughly 30 years equates to an average of just under 4,000 miles annually, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age and type. There are notable gaps between tests: over 1,000 miles were accumulated between the December 2023 fail and the December 2023 pass, followed by a 1,000-mile stretch before the November 2024 test. The most recent 3,000-mile period between November 2024 and November 2025 suggests the vehicle has not been driven consistently, which could imply storage or limited use. Without service records, it’s impossible to confirm whether critical components like suspension bushes, coil springs, or drivetrain joints have been addressed, but the low mileage may mitigate some wear concerns. Given the lack of recorded defects or advisories, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of high-wear areas typical for this model’s age. Focus on the suspension—particularly the rear coil springs and bushes, which often degrade prematurely in off-road vehicles—and the brake system, including caliper binding, disc corrosion, and master cylinder leaks. The drivetrain, especially the transfer box and differential, should be checked for fluid leaks or unusual noise, as these are common failure points in older Defenders. Structural integrity is also critical; inspect the floor pans, sills, and wheel arches for corrosion, particularly around the rear axle and fuel tank area, where rust can compromise safety. The absence of MOT advisories does not guarantee these areas are sound, so visual and functional checks are essential.