2009 Land Rover Defender 2.4L Diesel · PE09 XOV

This Defender’s most recent MOT test, conducted just 18 months ago on 2023-02-21, remains valid as of today, though it was a failure—unusually without any recorded defects. The preceding tests in early 2022 also ended in failure, yet again with no specific faults logged, which suggests either an administrative oversight in the MOT system or a vehicle that consistently meets basic roadworthiness thresholds despite age. The lack of advisories or recurring issues in the official record does not imply mechanical soundness but rather that the tester did not identify any failings at the time of inspection. Buyers should treat this as a red flag: a vehicle failing MOTs repeatedly without explanation warrants deeper scrutiny, particularly for components that often fail silently or are prone to deterioration in this model. The mileage progression of 121,747 miles over 17 years—roughly 7,160 miles annually—falls within the expected range for a Defender of this age, though the gap between the 2022 failures (just 131 miles apart) is notable. The vehicle was not driven significantly between the February 2022 tests, which could indicate either prolonged storage or a rushed attempt to pass the test. More concerning is the absence of any MOTs between 2022 and 2023, a gap of 12 months where the vehicle was presumably in use. While the mileage accumulation is not extreme, the irregular testing pattern raises questions about whether the owner prioritised regular maintenance or only attended to the vehicle when required by law. Given the lack of specific faults in the MOT history, the buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of high-wear components that are not routinely tested. The suspension—particularly the coil springs, bushes, and shock absorbers—will show significant signs of fatigue at this mileage, and binding or uneven wear on the rear brakes is a common issue in this model. Structural integrity is critical; check for corrosion in the sills, wheel arches, and subframe, as well as any signs of frame distortion. The exhaust system should be examined for leaks or excessive rust, and the drivetrain (especially the transfer case and differential) should be checked for fluid leaks or unusual noise, as these are often overlooked until failure. The absence of advisories in the MOT record does not guarantee these areas are sound.