1999 Land Rover Range Rover 2.5L Diesel · S764 ENJ

The most recent test on 12 April 2025 at 183,139 miles returned a pass, but the advisories reveal a chassis and braking system that are deteriorating rather than stabilising. Corrosion within 30cm of a mounting point on the structure was recorded, alongside corroded rear brake pipes on both sides and an oil leak that was not deemed excessive. The previous test in April 2024 at 174,800 miles noted that the underside and some suspension components were corroded. That change, from general underside corrosion to a specific structural corrosion advisory within 12 months, means the corrosion trend is active and should not be dismissed as superficial surface rust. This is a 27-year-old vehicle with significant corrosion beginning to take hold in load-bearing areas. The mileage pattern is roughly typical for the age, averaging around 6,783 miles per year. However, the records show a substantial nine-year gap between the September 2015 test at 169,839 miles and the April 2024 test at 174,800 miles. During that period the vehicle covered only about 5,000 miles, which strongly suggests it was laid up or used very sparingly for a long time. Before that lay-up, the 2015 history included a failure for excessive play in anti-roll bar and radius arm bushes, a major exhaust leak, and worn front tyres. The vehicle then returned to test in 2024 with little mileage added but corrosion appearing on the underside, which is consistent with a vehicle standing for years rather than being worn through frequent use. A buyer should prioritise a hands-on inspection of the chassis rails, outriggers, and all mounting points, because the latest structural corrosion advisory could escalate quickly. The rear brake pipes were marked as corroded and covered in grease or other material in the 2025 test, which often masks the true condition of the steel underneath, so that needs direct probing. The recurring oil leak has been present since at least 2012 and remains non-excessive, but its source should be identified to rule out a serious sump or rocker cover issue. The suspension bushes and ball joint dust covers flagged back in 2015, along with the slight propshaft universal joint play, should also be rechecked, as a long lay-up does not preserve rubber or grease. The 2014 failure for a parking brake lever with little reserve travel suggests the handbrake mechanism may need adjustment or replacement. If the corrosion on the structure is confirmed as superficial, the car could still be viable, but if any mounting is weakened, the repair cost would likely exceed the vehicle's value.