2018 Land Rover Range Rover Velar 3.0L Diesel · XX51 ACK

The most recent DVSA examination on 30 September 2025 resulted in a Pass, but it was achieved only after a failed attempt the previous day, which is a point worth reflecting on. The earlier failure on 29 September 2025 cited a Major defect for a missing offside front road wheel fixing, alongside a Major for a non-conforming registration plate, both of which are relatively straightforward issues to remedy, but the presence of a wheel fixing deficiency raises legitimate concerns about workshop diligence or recent wheel intervention. The September 2025 test also flagged a nearside rear tyre worn close to the legal limit on its edge, a deteriorating offside front track rod end dust cover, and a severely deteriorated offside front lower anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover. While the rod end and anti-roll bar items were classified as Minor and not test failures, they represent early-stage wear on the front suspension and steering geometry that warrants close physical inspection. Earlier test history shows clean passes in September 2024 and August 2023, although a Major TPMS defect was recorded at the August 2023 test, suggesting a possible intermittent or unresolved concern with the tyre pressure monitoring system that the buyer should verify is functioning correctly. The recorded mileage of 105,894 miles across approximately eight years equates to an annual average of around 13,200 miles, which sits at the higher end of typical usage for a vehicle of this class and age. This level of accumulation implies meaningful wear on all major mechanical systems, particularly the engine, automatic transmission, air suspension components, braking system, and drivetrain, all of which are areas of known sensitivity on the Range Rover Velar platform. The mileage progression between tests appears broadly consistent, with no extended standing periods evident from the recorded figures, which reduces the likelihood of standing-related corrosion issues but increases the probability of wear-related component fatigue. In light of the advisory and minor items recorded at the most recent test, a prospective buyer should undertake a thorough physical inspection of the front suspension and steering assemblies. The offside front track rod end dust cover deterioration means the ball joint is no longer fully sealed against dirt and moisture ingress, accelerating internal wear and potentially leading to sloppy steering response, uneven or feathered front tyre wear, or a knocking or clunking noise from the front end over bumps and during full-lock manoeuvres. Similarly, the deteriorated anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover on the same side should be inspected for any play in the link, as failure of this component typically presents as a metallic rattle or knocking over uneven road surfaces and can compromise cornering stability. The nearside rear tyre noted as worn on the edge may indicate a tracking or suspension geometry issue, so a four-wheel alignment check and inspection of the rear suspension bushes, coil springs, and dampers is advisable. The offside front road wheel fixing absence on the 2025 failure should also prompt a check that all four wheels are currently secured with the correct grade of bolts and that the wheels themselves are free from cracks or impact damage. Beyond the items directly recorded, a high-mileage Velar of this vintage requires careful assessment of age- and mileage-related service items regardless of MOT status. The brake discs and pads should be examined for wear, lipping, and any signs of binding calipers, particularly given the annual mileage. The air suspension system, if fitted, is a known high-cost maintenance item on this model and should be checked for sagging, compressor operation, and any warning messages on the dashboard. Under the bonnet, attention should be paid to oil condition, coolant strength, and any signs of leaks from the engine, transmission, or transfer case. Tyres should be inspected for age-related sidewall cracking and perishing as well as tread depth, and the 12V battery tested for state of charge given the vehicle's electrical complexity. The full service history should be verified, with particular focus on evidence of timely oil and filter changes, transmission fluid servicing, and any diagnostic reports addressing common Velar issues such as infotainment faults, sensor failures, and DPF condition if applicable.