2004 Land Rover Range Rover 4.4L Petrol · ST52 LEW

The most recent MOT inspection on 22 May 2025 resulted in a pass with no recorded defects, which follows a period of significant mechanical instability. The testing history reveals a volatile maintenance trend, characterized by a series of failures in early 2025 involving critical steering, drivetrain, and braking components. While the latest result suggests that the major faults identified in April and May 2025 have been addressed, the frequency of failures indicates a vehicle that has recently required substantial remedial work to meet minimum safety standards. The transition from multiple major failures to a clean pass is a positive sign, but the underlying pattern suggests a reactive rather than proactive approach to maintenance. With a recorded mileage of 132,147 over approximately 22 years, this Range Rover has averaged roughly 6,000 miles per year. This level of usage is considered low to moderate for a vehicle of this age and type, suggesting it has not been subjected to heavy commercial or constant long-distance motorway use. However, lower annual mileage on a heavy luxury SUV can often lead to specific mechanical issues, such as component seizure or degradation due to infrequent operation. The mileage is consistent with a vehicle that may spend significant periods stationary, which can exacerbate the deterioration of rubber components and the buildup of corrosion on braking surfaces. Prospective buyers should exercise caution regarding the recurring issues with the drivetrain and suspension. The history shows repeated failures related to drive shaft flexible couplings and constant velocity boots, as well as track rod ends and anti-roll bar linkages. During a test drive, you must listen intently for any rhythmic clicking or popping sounds when turning the steering wheel at low speeds, which would indicate CV joint wear, and any knocks or clunks when traversing uneven surfaces, which would signal worn suspension bushes or ball joints. Furthermore, the recent history of a binding nearside rear brake and an exhaust leak necessitates a thorough check for brake disc corrosion, caliper sticking, or any unusual engine note or vibration that might suggest the exhaust system is not fully secured or sealed. Given the vehicle's age and relatively low annual mileage, additional scrutiny of age-related degradation is essential. Inspect the tyres thoroughly for sidewall cracking or perishing, which occurs when rubber dries out from lack of use rather than tread wear. Check the condition of all rubber hoses and belts for signs of cracking or brittleness, and verify the service history to ensure that fluids such as engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid have been changed based on time intervals rather than just mileage. It is also advisable to check the 12V battery health and ensure the electrical systems, including the supplementary restraint system, are functioning correctly, as older Land Rovers can suffer from complex electronic gremlins when left standing for extended periods.