2009 Land Rover Discovery 2.7L Diesel · PL09 FBE

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance history reveals a worsening trend in structural degradation and mechanical wear. While the most recent test in May 2026 at 222,327 miles passed, it flagged steering rack inner joint play and surface corrosion on the underbody and side steps. This steering issue is a recurring fault, having appeared in both the May 2023 and 2024 tests, indicating that this critical component has not been adequately rectified despite multiple MOT cycles. At 17 years old, the recorded 222,327 miles represent a high-usage profile averaging approximately 13,000 miles per annum. The data shows consistent heavy use, with 14,147 miles covered between the April 2025 and May 2026 tests alone. This rapid mileage accumulation places significant stress on the Discovery's chassis and drivetrain, which is reflected in the frequent failure of rubber components like CV boots and track rod ends over the five-year period. A buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the structural integrity, specifically the inner sills and mounting points. The April 2025 test identified corrosion on both inner sills and broken mounting points on the nearside side step, which are serious concerns for a vehicle of this age. Furthermore, the history of corroded and greased brake pipes from 2022 through 2024 suggests a lack of preventative maintenance on the hydraulic system, which could lead to sudden failure if not fully replaced. The mechanical inspection should also focus on the steering and front suspension. Given the repeated reports of play in the steering rack inner joints and track rod ends, alongside the previous reports of deteriorated CV boots and wheel bearings, the front-end likely requires significant investment. The recurring presence of thin brake pads and worn tyres in earlier records further shows a pattern of reactive maintenance where parts are only addressed upon nearing inspection rather than through proactive upkeep.