What to consider when buying
Here are our top tips on things to consider when buying a Defender 90. Discuss prospective buys on our message boards, too.
For the definitive view get an LRO buying guide. See below for details.
Rear crossmember. Shouldn't be rusty yet, but check for damage caused by heavy towing
Suspension. Bushes wear with age, reducing ride quality and steering accuracy
Propshaft. Lots of strain on the joints, which need regular greasing. Look for joint play and the sliding splines
Wheels and tyres. Can be abused. Look for scratched alloys, damaged tyres
Corrosion. Check for corrosion between steel and alloy panels - lower door panels are favourites. Also bulkhead below windscreen and around lower hinges, and examine the chassis
Springs and suspension units. Sagging is a clue to a vehicle that's been used as a load lugger, also bottoming out on speed humps
Engine. Can have a very long life, but only if the oil has been changed regularly. If it's black assume the worst. Also timing belt needs regular changing - ask seller when it was last done
Steering. Should be good, but there are a lot of ball joints in the system, which can wear. The joint on the steering box drop arm is a common failure point
Front swivels. Checks for signs of pitting
Seats. Driver's seat cushion is liable to collapse, and it wears where driver slides in and out
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