2004 Land Rover Discovery 2.5L Diesel · SL04 KFN

A pattern of emerging structural corrosion and suspension wear defines the recent history of this vehicle, contrasting with a period of clean tests between 2016 and 2020. While the inspection on 2025-11-24 resulted in a pass, the record shows a steady increase in advisories concerning steering linkages, oil leaks, and body corrosion over the last five years. This suggests a trajectory of increasing mechanical wear and environmental degradation. The recorded mileage of 152,769 miles is typical for a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 6,944 miles per year. This level of usage indicates consistent operation rather than prolonged periods of standing, though the cumulative mileage increases the likelihood of wear on drivetrain components and high-stress suspension bushings. Particular attention must be paid to the steering and suspension systems, as the latest records flag play in the nearside front anti-roll bar linkage and drag link end, as well as previous wear in the Watts linkage. During a test drive, listen for knocking or clunking sounds when traversing uneven surfaces or during low-speed manoeuvres, and check for any vagueness or instability in the steering feel that may correlate with these worn ball joints. The presence of oil leaks and structural corrosion requires a detailed physical inspection. The records specifically note corrosion on the front inner wings, the nearside rear vehicle structure, and the offside rear suspension mounting area where the inner sill was described as soft. A thorough check of the underbody is necessary to determine the current extent of this oxidation, while the engine bay should be inspected for active oil seepage as identified in the November 2025 test.