2021 Land Rover Defender S D Mhev Auto 3.0L Diesel · SL21 FGO

The Land Rover Defender presents a generally sound mechanical picture, though the most recent MOT on 26 March 2026 at 31,750 miles flagged inner rear brake disc wear and pitting on both sides. While the car passed, this is a notable step up in brake work compared to the clean bill of health recorded on 5 March 2024 at 23,827 miles. The trend is not alarming, but it shows a developing issue that has progressed from a rear brake pad advisory on 18 March 2025 at 27,684 miles to disc wear a year later. This suggests the rear braking system has seen sustained use without timely disc replacement, and the condition warrants closer scrutiny before purchase. Mileage accumulation is steady and entirely typical for a five-year-old vehicle. The recorded figures show 23,827 miles in March 2024, rising to 27,684 miles by March 2025, and reaching 31,750 miles by March 2026. That equates to roughly 3,900 miles in the first annual interval and about 4,100 miles in the second, placing annual use just under the 6,350-mile average you might expect across the full five-year span. The car may have spent extended periods stationary or been used lightly in its early life, with usage picking up more recently. No large gaps or suspicious jumps appear in the record. The recurring rear brake wear is the primary mechanical concern. Inner disc pitting and scoring often point to pad neglect or a binding caliper, and the progression from a pad advisory to disc wear in just twelve months suggests the issue was not addressed promptly. A buyer should have a specialist inspect the rear calipers for seizure, check pad thickness and disc condition across both sides, and verify that the handbrake mechanism is not dragging. Given the Defender's off-road capability, a thorough underbody inspection is essential. Examine the chassis and suspension mounting points for corrosion, check the condition of bushes and dampers, and look for any signs of water ingress or damage to the undertrays noted in the last two tests.