Thread: Where to look for rust etc when purchasing a defender?

I'd first check out the firewall, bulkheads, rear cross member, chassis and then generally have a good overall look around the vehicle. There are numerous little "ledges" in front and under the wheel arches where mud and crap accumulate if the owner has not been careful enough when cleaning.

and door frames....

Thanks for the replies fellas - sounds like it would be nice to check on the hoist if possible.

passenger side foot well under air con unit
bottem edge of door
rear door, remove trim and check for cracks

no need for a hoist, just an old set of cloths and drag yourself around underneath.....after all you will need to get used to it

Have a look for corrosion on the door panels where there is contact with the steel frames.
My Defe have corrosion on the doors but I ignored it because mechanically is spot on.

Also if you pull the rubber mat out that covers the driver and passenger footwell. I have pretty nasty rust there. Also just below the edge of the trim of the dash, where the pedals come out of the bulkhead