2002 Land Rover Defender 2.5L Diesel · RYN 132

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on 29 January 2026 confirms it remains roadworthy, though the preceding history reveals a pattern of recurring, low-severity issues rather than outright failure. The trend is stable rather than worsening or improving, with no critical defects since the 2022 failure—though the same components (brakes, suspension, power steering) have been flagged intermittently. The January 2026 pass, coupled with the August 2024 advisories on rear anti-roll bar bushes and the 2023 power steering leak, suggests the vehicle has been maintained at a basic level, with no evidence of aggressive neglect or deferred repairs. However, the 2022 brake pipe leak and disc wear indicate hydraulic and friction components require close scrutiny. The mileage progression of approximately 6,300 miles annually over 24 years aligns with typical usage for this age, though the gap between the 2022 failure and 2023 pass—just five days—implies the leak was addressed promptly. The 2024 to 2026 interval of 18 months is standard for MOT testing, with no abrupt spikes or prolonged inactivity. While the recorded mileage suggests consistent driving rather than prolonged storage, the age of the vehicle (2002) means wear on high-stress areas like suspension mounts and drivetrain seals will be inevitable. A prospective buyer should prioritise an inspection of the rear anti-roll bar bushes, which were noted as worn in 2024, and the offside front brake system, which failed in 2022 due to a hydraulic leak and disc wear. The 2023 power steering pump seepage warrants checking for corrosion or fluid loss, while the 2022 brake disc condition should be reassessed for pitting or uneven wear. Structural integrity, particularly around wheel arches and suspension mounts, should also be examined for corrosion or fatigue, as these are common failure points in vehicles of this age. The absence of major advisories in the most recent tests does not preclude these areas from requiring attention.