2001 Land Rover Defender 2.5L Diesel · RF51 ASV
2001 Land Rover Defender (2.5L, diesel). First registered 23 Nov 2001. Recorded mileage 142,302 miles. MOT expired on 02 Jun 2025.
- Make & Model
- LAND ROVER DEFENDER
- Year / Origin
- 2001 · Reading
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 02 Jun 2025
- Road Tax
- Untaxed (01 Nov 2007)
- Recorded Mileage
- 142,302 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- Diesel · 2.5L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
RF51 ASV Key Findings
- 4 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 04/06/2024
- 142,302 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
RF51 ASV MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
4 MOT tests are recorded for this 2001 Land Rover Defender (RF51 ASV) between October 2022 and June 2024.
The record contains 2 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 04 June 2024 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Windscreen (1 issue), Exhaust & Emissions (1 issue), Lighting (1 issue), Suspension (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 2 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Recorded failure items include: “Rear Upper Suspension arm ball joint dust cover no longer prevents the ingress of dirt (5.3.4 (b) (ii))”; “Headlamp aim projected beam image is obviously incorrect both sides - LHD lamps fitted (4.1.2 (c))”; “Exhaust system insecure centre (6.1.2 (a))”.
RF51 ASV Mileage History
- 29/10/2022142,283 mi
- 14/11/2022142,284 mi+1 mi
- 04/06/2024142,302 mi+18 mi
- 04/06/2024142,302 mi
Average of roughly 12 miles per year across 4 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution and a thorough mechanical inspection. While the vehicle has a long history, recent MOT failures regarding suspension and lighting suggest maintenance may be reactive rather than proactive.
When viewing this Green Defender, your first priority should be a thorough check of the chassis and underside for corrosion, a common issue for this era of Land Rover. Given the 2024 MOT failure regarding a rear upper suspension arm ball joint dust cover, you should inspect all suspension bushings and joints for play or perished rubber to avoid immediate post-purchase costs.
Ask the seller for a detailed service history, specifically looking for evidence of regular oil changes for the 2.5L diesel engine. Because the 2022 MOT noted an insecure exhaust system, check the mounting points and hangers to ensure the exhaust is properly secured and not causing excessive vibration or noise.
As a 2495cc diesel, running costs will be higher than a standard passenger car. Expect relatively low fuel economy, typical for a Defender of this vintage, and insurance groups for these vehicles can vary wildly depending on the driver's profile and the vehicle's intended use.
Maintenance costs for Land Rovers can be significant, especially regarding heavy-duty components like suspension and drivetrain. While parts are widely available, labour costs for specialist 4x4 repairs can add up quickly. Budget for regular preventative maintenance to avoid the types of failures seen in its recent MOT history.
Pay close attention to the lighting system; the 2022 MOT failure revealed that LHD (Left Hand Drive) lamps were fitted, which can cause issues with beam pattern and legality in the UK. Ensure the headlamps are correctly aligned and are the correct UK-spec units.
Inspect the windscreen wiper mechanism and blades, as the 2022 test flagged ineffective clearing. Additionally, check the rear suspension components closely; the recent failure of a ball joint dust cover suggests that rubber components in the suspension may be reaching the end of their serviceable life.
This 2001 Land Rover Defender presents as a high-mileage workhorse with 142,302 miles on the clock. The MOT history shows a period of consistent passes, but recent results in 2022 and 2024 highlight issues with suspension components, exhaust security, and even the incorrect fitment of LHD headlamps. Its age and diesel engine make it a classic choice, but the recent failures indicate it requires a diligent owner.
No aggregate reliability data is available for this specific model, so individual vehicle history must be prioritised.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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