2007 Land Rover Defender 2.4L Diesel · PX07 KAU

The most recent MOT, conducted on 22 May 2026 at 136,681 miles, returned a clean pass with zero defects recorded. That result marks a clear improvement over the previous June 2025 cycle, where the vehicle failed on four separate items before passing five days later at the same 133,607-mile reading. The fact that all previously flagged defects, including a corroded front power steering pipe, a missing steering linkage ball joint dust cover on the drop arm, a hand brake light fault, and oil and power steering seepage, were resolved for the retest and have not reappeared suggests the previous owner carried out targeted repairs rather than simply patching through the annual test. The maintenance trend over the last two years is therefore stable and arguably improving, with no recurring failures and a clean bill of health at the most recent inspection. The vehicle's annual mileage of roughly 7,194 miles is typical for a 2007 Defender of this age, indicating consistent rather than excessive use. Between the December 2024 pass at 132,322 miles and the June 2025 test at 133,607 miles, only 1,285 miles were covered in six months, which may reflect a period of lighter use or short local journeys. The jump from 133,607 miles in June 2025 to 136,681 miles by May 2026 represents 3,074 miles over approximately eleven months, a modest increase that points to more regular use in the most recent period. The mileage record is consistent and shows no suspicious gaps or sudden spikes that would raise concerns about clocking or prolonged standing. Despite the clean recent result, the 2025 failure highlights areas that warrant close physical inspection. The excessively corroded front power steering pipe and missing ball joint dust cover on the drop arm point to potential long-term exposure to moisture and off-road conditions, common for a Defender of this type. A buyer should examine the full steering linkage, including track rod ends and swivel housings, for play and deterioration, and check whether the replacement power steering pipe shows any signs of fresh corrosion or weeping. The oil leak noted as not excessive in 2025 should be traced to its source, whether that is a rocker cover gasket, front crankshaft seal, or gearbox output, as even minor leaks can worsen with age on a vehicle that may see wading or heavy-duty use. Beyond the flagged items, a thorough underbody inspection is advisable given the vehicle's age and purpose. Check all chassis outriggers and crossmembers for corrosion or previous welding, inspect suspension bushes and coil springs for wear or cracking, and assess the condition of brake discs, calipers, and flexible hoses for any binding or seepage that may not yet meet MOT failure thresholds. The hand brake system, which drew attention in 2025, deserves a functional check on a gradient to confirm it holds securely. Tyre condition and date codes should also be verified, as older rubber can degrade even with adequate tread depth. Overall, the MOT record presents a well-maintained vehicle with no current defects, but the 2025 failure cluster is a reminder that steering and structural integrity on a working 4x4 demand ongoing vigilance.