2005 Land Rover Range Rover 2.9L Diesel · RT04 STV

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2005 Land Rover Range Rover was conducted on 23 January 2026 and resulted in a pass with no defects or advisories recorded, indicating that the vehicle was deemed roadworthy at that time. The pattern of recent test outcomes shows a degree of instability that warrants attention from a prospective buyer. Specifically, the vehicle failed an MOT on 23 January 2025 but then passed on a retest just two days later on 25 January 2025, and a similar pattern occurred at the end of 2023, with a failure on 8 December 2023 followed by a pass on 12 December 2023. While the absence of recorded defects means we cannot identify the specific items that caused these failures, the frequency of retests required suggests the vehicle regularly presents with marginal items that need addressing immediately prior to obtaining a pass. The overall trend is not one of clear improvement, as both 2025 and 2023 required retests before passing, and any prospective buyer should treat this pattern as indicative of a vehicle that may require ongoing remedial attention to remain within MOT standards. With a recorded mileage of 163,253 miles over approximately 21 years, this Range Rover has covered an average of roughly 7,774 miles per year, which is broadly consistent with typical usage for a vehicle of this age and class. There are no obvious extended gaps in recorded mileage or periods of unusually rapid accumulation within the MOT history provided, suggesting fairly steady use over the years. However, it is worth noting that the two most recent MOT entries in 2025 and 2026 both show identical recorded mileages, which is unusual and may indicate that the vehicle was either stationary for a period between tests or that one of the readings was not accurately captured at the time of test. For a Range Rover of this vintage and mileage, the mechanical implications are considerable, as high-mileage examples are known to require attention to air suspension components, driveshaft flexes, and general drivetrain wear. Given the clean defect record across all tests, there are no specific advisories to investigate further, which is positive, but the absence of recorded advisories on a 21-year-old vehicle with over 160,000 miles should be treated with a measure of scepticism. Advisories are commonly issued for ageing consumables such as worn brake pads or corroded brake discs, perished tyres, weakened coil springs, oil leaks, or deteriorating suspension bushes, and the fact that none have been flagged may simply indicate that these items were either addressed just prior to test or were not deemed severe enough to record. A thorough physical inspection is therefore essential. On a test drive, listen for any suspension clonks or thuds over uneven surfaces, particularly indicative of worn air suspension struts or failing bushes which are common on this model. Pay close attention to any pulling under braking, which may suggest warped front brake discs, and check for uneven tyre wear across the axle, as this often points to worn suspension components or geometry issues requiring correction. Beyond the test drive, a prospective buyer should carry out a careful static inspection tailored to the vehicle's age and mileage. Tyres should be checked closely for sidewall perishing and cracking, as rubber compounds degrade with age regardless of tread depth, and any tyres older than six years should be regarded as due for replacement. Given the vehicle's age, the 12V battery is highly likely to be approaching the end of its service life, and a load test is advisable to confirm its state of health. Brake discs should be inspected for surface corrosion, particularly on a vehicle that may have stood for periods, and calipers should be checked for signs of binding or seized pistons. Coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid should all be regarded as overdue for replacement on a calendar basis, as standard service intervals of two years for brake fluid and longer for cooling system fluid are unlikely to have been strictly observed over 21 years. Finally, given the Range Rover's known susceptibility to corrosion of structural and chassis components, a thorough examination of the underside, sills, and suspension mounting points on a ramp is strongly recommended before purchase.