Thanks for the info. The DVLA won't accept a complaint if the MOT is over 6 months. I think the MOT was faked as there are no advisories on it. I also called the garage to ask how they had missed it and he put the phone down. Wouldn't talk to me again.
I'll look at those links.
i think if you can get somebody like rip off britain involved they would have a more forceful approach with the MOT station but there is nothing to prove that somebody hasn't put those rusty parts on the vehicle since the MOT, of course they haven't, but chassis rust is different, but the fact that the seller has done this before and boasts he will do it again, then that might stir up some interest with them especially with your other circumstances.
you can check MOT history at the link below so it might be interesting to check previous MOT's but not sure if you can see previous advisories and mileage may be interesting.
https://www.gov.uk/check-mot-history-vehicle
As far as the vehicle is concerned, if you can get some local help you could get it sorted and at least get it to a stage of being able to sell it at a reasonable price or be prepared for more outlay.
i am sure there are people on here that would dig out for you.
i have owned a 2004 4.4 for just over a year and have carried out all the work with the help of a friend or have done it myself, after buying some fairly extensive tools, and i would guess i have still spent at least £4k not to mention the fuel cost for the 6000 miles i have driven it.( no lpg for me)
They are great cars to drive and own but the parts are still really expensive and they can need a lot of work that a lot of garages shy away from or just charge you the earth, especially diagnostic work unless they are repairing these all the time so i think that unless you are in a position to diagnose and repair these yourself then the older ones can very soon become unviable to own.
i really hope you get somewhere with it
