2010 Land Rover Range Rover Sport 3.0L Diesel · RC52 AFC

This Range Rover Sport presents a roadworthiness record dominated by a single, significant suspension failure in late 2021, which appears to have been rectified, as the vehicle has since passed three consecutive MOT tests with no advisories recorded on the 2023 and 2025 certificates. The most recent test on 14 October 2025 was a clean pass, suggesting that the underlying structural issues flagged two years prior have not reappeared in the test data. However, prior to that failure, the pattern was already beginning to emerge, with 2021 advisories highlighting wear to the front brake discs and inner rear tyres. The intervening years, particularly 2023, show a return to a clean record, which is a positive indicator, but the sheer volume of components flagged as Major defects in one test suggests a vehicle that was potentially subject to harsh road conditions or had deferred suspension maintenance prior to that point. With 180,524 miles accumulated over approximately 16 years, the annual mileage of roughly 11,283 miles is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and class, though the upper end of that range points to a working vehicle rather than a weekend example. The MOT history shows no significant gaps in testing, and the mileage progression between 2020 and 2025 is steady, which prevents any immediate concerns about prolonged periods of standing that can degrade complex electronics, seals, and drivetrain fluids in this model. Nevertheless, at this mileage, general wear to major mechanical assemblies such as the air suspension compressor, timing chain components, and transfer box should be considered the norm, regardless of the test history. Given the specific Major defects recorded on the 2021-11-15 failure relating to the lower and upper suspension arm pins and bushes, particular attention should be paid to the front and rear suspension geometry during a physical inspection. Knock or clonking noises from the front when traversing speed bumps, or vague handling responses and uneven tyre wear, would suggest that the replacement bushes have degraded or that further bushes and arms are now worn. The 2021 advisories for pitted and scored front brake discs mean the braking system should be tested for any pedal judder or vibration under heavy application, indicating disc run-out or warping that may have developed since the last test. Similarly, the recurring advisories for inner rear tyre wear on both sides imply that a four-wheel geometry check and an examination of the rear suspension bushes may be warranted to prevent premature tyre replacement. On a test drive, focus on the functionality of the air suspension, listening for the compressor cutting in frequently or for the vehicle sitting lower on one side when stationary, as these are common failure points on high-mileage examples of this generation. Check the dashboard for any illuminated warnings relating to the transfer box, gearbox, or suspension faults, and verify that all terrain response modes engage correctly. Given the offside front tyre sidewall damage advisory from 2024, inspect the current tyres closely for any bulges or cracks, and confirm that the spare or repair kit is present and serviceable. Finally, ensure that the recent clean MOT pass is corroborated by a current service record, as a 180,000-mile vehicle of this complexity requires consistent fluid changes and mechanical attention to remain reliable in the long term.