2016 Land Rover Defender 2.2L Diesel · WH16 PPO

The Land Rover Defender presents a stable roadworthiness record in its most recent MOT history, with the June 2026 test at 56,347 miles showing no defects—a clean pass that aligns with the three preceding annual inspections. The only deviation from this pattern occurred in October 2022, when a near-side front track rod end ball joint dust cover was noted as damaged, though the tester confirmed it was not compromising safety by preventing dirt ingress. This isolated advisory suggests the vehicle has otherwise been maintained to avoid critical failures, with no signs of worsening mechanical or structural issues over the past three years. The absence of defects in the latest tests indicates that routine checks—likely including fluid top-ups, tyre condition, and basic suspension integrity—have been addressed promptly. The Defender’s mileage accumulation of roughly 5,635 miles per year is notably low for its age, reflecting either infrequent use or extended periods of inactivity. The gap between the October 2022 test (49,450 miles) and the following June 2023 test (49,663 miles) covers just eight months yet shows only a 213-mile increase, reinforcing the impression of light usage. Such low annual mileage can reduce wear on consumables like brakes and tyres, but it may also mask underlying issues if the vehicle has sat unused for prolonged stretches—particularly in terms of fluid degradation or rubber component deterioration. The consistency in mileage suggests the Defender has not been subjected to heavy or frequent driving, which could either benefit long-term reliability or obscure deferred maintenance if checks were neglected during periods of disuse. For a buyer, the primary focus should be the front suspension components, given the 2022 advisory on the track rod end dust cover. While the tester deemed it non-critical at the time, inspecting the condition of both front track rod ends—including any signs of leakage, wear, or excessive play—is essential. The coil springs, suspension bushes, and ball joints should also be scrutinised for corrosion or fatigue, especially if the Defender has been stored in damp conditions. Braking performance should be verified, as low-mileage vehicles can sometimes develop binding calipers or uneven disc wear if fluid changes have been overlooked. Finally, checking for structural corrosion in high-stress areas like the sills, wheel arches, and underbody is prudent, given the Defender’s age and potential exposure to rural or coastal environments.