Buying used Defender

[roverdriver]

G'day everyone.

This may be my first post but I've been searching these forums for many months now and I have to say this is a fantastic forum for a novice like me.

I have been looking for a Defender 90/110 and within a budget of $15 000 - $25 000. I've come to the conclusion that a TD5 is probably the best choice for myself (my only choice if I want a 90). I'm no mechanic and I think the more modern and younger engine I can get the better.

I've found a 2001 Defender 110 with 165 000kms. Its at a dealership and although I haven't had the chance to visit yet, I have spoken to the dealer and asked a few questions. My main concern is its service history as it's been serviced on average about every 20 000kms but is missing a gap between 70 00km - 112 00kms. On other vehicles I've owned, this period tends to have major services involved. Should I be concerned this may not have been completed on the defender?

Any other help regarding pre purchase checks or other items of warning I should look out for would be greatly appreciated.

P.S the name may be a little bit of a foresight (roverdriver) so for now you can call me wannaberoverdriver haha.

[Grumbles]

Is it possible to track down and talk to the previous owner regarding the missing service gaps and also ascertain the general history of the car? This is the first thing I do if buying used and this procedure has proved to be a life saver in the past.

[roverdriver]

I'm not overly confident that I will be able to contact the previous owner but its something I will try and do once I am able to have a look at the vehicle and check the books myself.

If I'm happy with the condition of the vehicle I think I will pay for a pre purchase inspection of it before I offer anything. Hopefully that will pick up any faults.

[Grumbles]

Prepurchase inspection is a great idea - but from an independent Landy workshop rather than the generic checks provided by RACV or NRMA etc. Don't forget to have it checked for water damage as well - it might cost you a bit extra but this just might eliminate the possibility [probability ?] of getting a wet car from all the floods ie Vic, NSW and Qld.