Defenders - how many miles is too many?

[paddyhasneeds]

Still looking, saw something that looks/sounds genuine (vs. pig in lipstick part-time trader ste) but then after an email:

Sorry to say, but the advert is very misleading as the mileage is 238,000

I know this seams huge but she has been well looked after

Just had a new head, radiator, pulley wheel etc

All tyres are good and a new wheel bearing fitted on Friday

We have had the car for two years used daily, been looked after by the same garage for 5 years

We live in Stroud Gloucestershire and the car can be viewed any evening, Saturday or we can make arrangements for any week days

The underneath all good, just been up on a ramp due to new wheel bearing We believe the engine was replaced 80,000 miles ago and we have just replaced the head at Christmas. The interior is good for the age !!

We have owned the car foe 2 years and a friend for 3, been serviced by same garage - before this a market garden company from new

2.5 Tdi

[softtop]

so the engine is 80,000. Once a vehicle gets to a certain age it is unlikely that many of the original parts are still there. You are then into how good is the chassis and the bulkhead. Is that original? If so on an old motor it will probably need attention.

[cpas]

Depends upon price and overall condition more than mileage.

[budrover]

Defenders you need to look at them.

I had a 200tdi that did 200,000 on original engine and gearbox with one clutch change.

A tired defender with mega mileage can soon be perked up with new suspension bushes, springs and shockers and new seats....most important is the chassis and bulkhead are in good condition.

[maxc]

I have a 90 TD5, late 2002 with 292,000 miles and it shows no signs of it. As said above, it has been meticulously maintained (ex Highways Agency) with so many new parts that the mileage just doesn't matter. It had never been off-roaded with perfect chassis and bulkhead. Only issue was the steering wheel that had gone spongey and a worn seat cover, easily sorted. The price reflected things (£4K) but an absolute bargain and I wouldn't hesitate if I were to do it again.

[budrover]

Must of had road closures to the moon and back !! 292k in a defender -some wonky right elbow out there !

[West4x4]

Mine has 197K on it barely run i think?

[Lefty Two Drams]

They are the original triggers broom vehicles!

Even if the chassis looks iffy, don't worry if the car is cheap enough. You can get the chassis replac ed for £2k all-in and it will keep going for another 20 years. Big help with resale!