2018 Land Rover Range Rover Sport 3.0L Diesel · SA09 DAF

The 2018 Land Rover Range Rover Sport’s latest MOT test on 2025-12-16 resulted in a clean pass, with no recorded defects or advisories. Over the preceding five-year MOT history, the vehicle has consistently passed all tests without any failures or recurring issues, indicating a stable maintenance record. The absence of advisories or conditional passes suggests that while the vehicle may have minor wear items that are not yet critical, the owner has likely addressed any developing concerns promptly, aligning with the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals. This consistency is commendable, particularly given the vehicle’s age and the potential for cumulative wear in high-mileage models. The recorded mileage of 72,989 miles for a vehicle aged approximately eight years represents an annual usage rate of around 9,124 miles, which is within the expected range for this class of car. Such mileage accumulation is typical for a Range Rover Sport, as it is designed for robust, long-term use with a focus on durability. However, the absence of significant mileage gaps or rapid increases in recorded miles does not necessarily indicate low usage—it may reflect a combination of moderate driving patterns, occasional long-distance travel, or periods of storage without substantial mileage accumulation. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, the suspension components, brake systems, and drivetrain elements are likely to have experienced moderate wear, while fluid degradation and internal component fatigue may be more pronounced than in lower-mileage counterparts. The wear progression on consumables such as brake pads, suspension bushes, and exhaust components should be monitored closely, as these areas often exhibit accelerated deterioration with consistent use. Given the clean MOT history and moderate mileage, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection to identify any latent issues that may not have surfaced during routine MOT testing. First and foremost, examine the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even at moderate mileages due to the vehicle’s age and exposure to environmental elements. Check the tyre tread depth uniformly across all four tyres, ensuring none exceed the legal minimum of 1.6mm, and verify for any irregular wear patterns that could indicate misalignment, suspension wear, or steering system issues. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the suspension, such as clunks or rattles, which may signal worn coil springs, broken control arm bushings, or damaged strut mounts. Additionally, inspect the exhaust system for leaks, corrosion, or excessive vibration, as these can indicate failing catalytic converters or warped exhaust manifolds, which may impact emissions performance and structural integrity. Beyond the mechanical systems, a practical inspection should include a check of the 12V battery and associated electrical systems, as older vehicles are more susceptible to battery degradation from prolonged disuse or calendar-based aging. Test the battery voltage at rest and while the engine is running, ensuring it holds sufficient charge without excessive voltage drops. Verify that all electrical connections are clean and corrosion-free, particularly around the battery terminals and fuse box. Fluid checks are also critical, with particular attention to the brake fluid reservoir, which should be topped up to the correct level and free from contamination or moisture buildup, as this can lead to brake fluid degradation and reduced braking performance. The engine oil should be checked for colour and consistency, with a recommendation to replace it if it appears dark or has excessive particulate matter, as this may indicate wear in the crankshaft or bearings. Lastly, inspect the vehicle’s undercarriage for signs of corrosion, especially around wheel arches, under the bonnet, and beneath the chassis, as standing for extended periods can accelerate rust formation in these areas. If the vehicle has been in storage, ensure that the fuel system is drained of moisture to prevent corrosion within the fuel lines and tank. Finally, verify that the service book or maintenance records are up to date, as this will provide a clear timeline for scheduled maintenance such as timing belt replacement, valve adjustment, and suspension component servicing, which are often recommended at specific mileage or calendar intervals for this model.