2004 Land Rover Defender 2.5L Diesel · ST54 KHC

Recurring issues with suspension components and tyre wear constitute the primary mechanical risk for this vehicle, evidenced by a failed MOT on 5 June 2026. The recent failure for a nearside front tyre being below the legal tread depth limit, alongside advisories for worn tyres on both the offside front and both rear tyres, indicates a pattern of deferred tyre replacement. Furthermore, the shock absorber bushes have been flagged consistently since at least 2022, progressing from a slight wear advisory to a major defect on the nearside rear lower shock absorber in the most recent test. This trend suggests that suspension components are reaching the end of their service life and require immediate attention. The vehicle has covered 90,993 miles over its 22-year lifespan, which equates to a relatively low annual average of approximately 4,136 miles. While this low mileage suggests the vehicle has not been subjected to high-frequency heavy use, the MOT history shows a period of inactivity between February 2022 and June 2023. For a vehicle of this age and type, low annual mileage can sometimes mask the effects of long periods of standing, which may contribute to the degradation of rubber components such as the track rod end dust covers and shock absorber bushes that have appeared repeatedly in the records. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the chassis and braking system during a physical inspection. The records show a persistent advisory regarding corrosion on the vehicle structure, specifically noting that while structural rigidity is not significantly reduced, the chassis is corroded. This requires a thorough check for deeper oxidation or thinning metal in the subframe areas. Additionally, the history notes corrosion on the rear brake hose ferrule and an inadequately clipped rear brake pipe. On a test drive, listen for any irregular knocking or clunking from the suspension, particularly from the rear shock absorbers, and check for any steering wander or vibration that could indicate the damaged track rod end dust covers have allowed grit to compromise the ball joints. The presence of an oil leak advisory from 2022 and a previous major failure for excessive visual smoke in 2021 necessitates a close inspection of the engine and drivetrain for active leaks or heavy carbon buildup. During the test drive, monitor the engine's performance under load and listen for any unusual exhaust notes that might suggest combustion issues. Given the recent tyre failures and the recurring issues with shock absorber bushes, it is essential to verify that all four tyres meet legal requirements and that the suspension feels stable and controlled, without excessive oscillation or impact noise when traversing uneven surfaces.