2018 Land Rover Range Rover Velar 3.0L Diesel · PC11 RAM

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2018 Land Rover Range Rover Velar was conducted on 13 February 2026, at which point the vehicle passed. However, the result was accompanied by an advisory noting that the offside rear tyre was worn close to the legal limit and worn on its edge, alongside a minor defect for a defective front windscreen wiper blade. Reviewing the broader test history, the maintenance trend is broadly stable but warrants close attention, as there is a recurring theme concerning offside front track rod end ball joint play, which was noted as an advisory in both 2023 and 2025. Additionally, the offside rear tyre has now appeared as an advisory across two separate test entries in the 2026 pass, suggesting that the wear characteristics on this corner have either persisted or been flagged with some redundancy. While the vehicle has not failed any test, the steady accumulation of steering and tyre advisories over recent years indicates that wear in these areas is progressing rather than being resolved. The recorded mileage of 81,426 miles over an approximate eight-year period equates to an annual usage of around 10,178 miles, which sits comfortably within the typical range for a vehicle of this age. This figure suggests a mix of regular commuting and longer distance use, rather than a car that has been predominantly garaged or one subjected to exceptionally high mileage. There are no significant unexplained gaps in the MOT record, although the intervals between tests remain fairly consistent with the expected annual or biannual testing cycle. From a mechanical perspective, this usage rate points to a vehicle that has seen consistent running, which is generally favourable for maintaining drivetrain health, though it also means that consumable components such as suspension bushes, brake discs, and tyres have all been subjected to steady wear over time. Given the recurring advisory concerning slight play in the offside front track rod end ball joint, a prospective buyer should treat this as a priority inspection point. Although slight play is often considered borderline acceptable at the time of test, it tends to deteriorate with further use, and the fact that it has been noted across two separate tests two years apart suggests it has not been rectified and may now be closer to warranting replacement. On a test drive, symptoms to listen and feel for include vague or imprecise steering, knocking or clunking sounds from the front end when traversing speed bumps or uneven surfaces, uneven or feathered wear across the front tyres, and a tendency for the steering to wander slightly on the motorway. It would be prudent to have a specialist physically inspect the ball joint for current play and check the condition of the related inner track rod and steering rack gaiters, as deteriorated gaiters can allow moisture ingress and accelerate wear on these components. Beyond the documented advisories, several age and mileage related checks remain pertinent. The front and rear brake discs and calipers should be inspected for signs of corrosion or seizing, as standing periods combined with British weather conditions can cause caliper slide pins to bind and disc surfaces to develop surface rust that leads to juddering under braking. The offside rear tyre, which has been flagged for edge wear, should be measured for remaining tread depth and examined for uneven shoulder wear, which can also point toward camber or alignment issues on the rear axle. Despite the relatively moderate annual mileage, an eight year old vehicle will still require careful inspection of age related items such as the condition of all tyre sidewalls for perishing and cracking regardless of tread depth, the health of the 12 volt battery, the state of all underbonnet and brake fluid which degrade on a calendar basis, and the integrity of the exhaust mounting rubbers. Finally, ensuring the service book is fully stamped and that the timing belt or chain intervals have been respected according to manufacturer schedules is essential, as neglected servicing on a premium SUV of this type can lead to disproportionately expensive remedial work.