Can you really trust a Land Rover Discovery to take you on your next adventure? The answer lies in the model year. While some years are plagued by issues, others have proven to be reliable companions.
If you’re in the market for a used Discovery, you’ll want to steer clear of certain models, lets you find yourself stuck on the side of the road. So, which years should you avoid, and which ones can you count on?
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Key Takeaways
- The 1995, 1996, 1998, and 2017 model years are plagued by various issues, making them best avoided due to poor reliability and high repair costs.
- The 1989, 2009-2016, and 2018 model years are considered reliable options, with an average reliability score of 72 out of 100.
- Brake failure is a significant concern in certain Land Rover Discovery models, particularly those with malfunctioning ABS systems.
- Proper maintenance is crucial to mitigating reliability issues, including regular oil changes, filter replacements, and timely replacement of worn-out parts.
- Researching and avoiding specific models with known problems, and prioritizing maintenance records, can help ensure a reliable purchase.
Unreliable Model Years to Avoid
When considering a Land Rover Discovery, it’s essential to be aware of the model years that are best avoided due to their poor reliability.
You’ll want to steer clear of the 1995, 1996, and 1998 models, which are plagued by issues like oil leaks, faulty power seats, and brake failures.
The 2017 model year is also among the least reliable, with problems like windshield failure and infotainment system issues.
Avoiding these specific model years can save you from hefty repair bills and downtime. Instead, opt for the best Land Rovers, which are known for their reliability and performance.
Common Issues by Model Year
This guide breaks down the specific issues affecting various Land Rover Discovery model years, helping you navigate potential problems before making a purchase. When buying a used Land Rover Discovery, it’s essential to know the common issues associated with specific model years.
| Model Year | Common Issues | Repair/Maintenance Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1995 | Oil leaks, faulty power seats, instrument cluster issues | High repair costs, frequent maintenance needed |
| 1996 | Faulty ABS system, brake failure | Immediate repair required to guarantee safety |
| 1998 | Engine and transmission issues, starting problems | Higher-than-average maintenance and repair costs |
| 2017 | Windshield failure, electrical damage | Expensive repairs, potentially high maintenance costs |
Reliable Land Rover Discovery Models
You’re likely looking for a reliable Land Rover Discovery model that fits your needs and budget.
Fortunately, there are several options to weigh, including the 1989 model, which offers a great price for a five-door hatch SUV, and the 2009-2016 models, which feature more powerful engines and advanced safety features.
If you’re looking for the most reliable model year, the 2018 Land Rover Discovery is a great choice, offering a combination of affordability and modern features.
Reliable Model Options
Finding a reliable Land Rover Discovery model can be a formidable task, but some years stand out from the rest for their dependability and overall value. If you’re in the market for a used Land Rover Discovery, consider the following reliable model options.
| Model Year | Reliability Features |
|---|---|
| 1989 | Affordable, five-door hatch SUV perfect for families |
| 2009-2016 | Powerful engines, tech-heavy elements like safety features |
| 2018 | Combination of affordability and modern features |
| 2009-2016 | Recommended for reliability, affordability, and modern features |
| All Models | Average reliability score of 72 out of 100, $719 annual maintenance cost |
These models offer a great balance of reliability, affordability, and features, making them a great choice for those looking for a dependable used SUV.
Best Years to Buy
When shopping for a reliable used Land Rover Discovery, it’s essential to know which model years stand out from the rest.
The best way to find a reliable Land Rover Discovery is to focus on models from 2009 to 2016 and the 2018 model year. These years offer a combination of affordability and modern features, making them the best car listings to find.
Look for newer models with low mileage for the best value. Avoid older models and opt for a five-year-old or newer Land Rover Discovery for a hassle-free sale.
Land Rover Discovery Reliability and Maintenance
The Land Rover Discovery’s reliability record is a crucial consideration for potential buyers, and fortunately, it has an average reliability score of 72 out of 100, according to carparts.com.
As a used Land Rover Discovery owner, you can expect to pay around $719 per year in maintenance costs, with some repairs being more expensive than others.
However, certain year models, like the 1989 and 2009-2016 ranges, are reliable options that offer a great balance of affordability and utilitarian features.
The 2018 model is considered the most dependable, with its modern features and safety features making it a great choice.
Years to Avoid and Common Issues
You’ve likely considered the reliability and maintenance costs of a Land Rover Discovery, but it’s just as vital to know which years to avoid due to their common issues.
When searching for a used Land Rover Discovery for sale, steer clear of the 1995, 1996, 1998, and 2017 models.
These worst years of Land Rover Discovery are plagued by oil leaks, faulty power seats, electrical problems, and engine issues.
The 1995 model, in particular, is notorious for major oil leaks and faulty components.
In the same way, the 2017 model has reported issues with windshield failure and infotainment system problems.
Additional Considerations and Resources
Beyond avoiding problematic model years, several additional considerations can make or break your used Land Rover Discovery buying experience.
You’ll want to research and test drive a used model before purchasing to guarantee it’s the right midsize SUV for you. The CoPilot app can help you find the best deal on a used Land Rover Discovery and even assist in finding the right model for your needs.
Don’t forget to have a mechanic inspect the vehicle and review maintenance records, especially for older models prone to electrical issues and engine problems.
Most Unreliable Used Cars
When shopping for a used Land Rover Discovery, it’s essential to be aware of other models that have reliability issues, so you can make a more informed purchase decision. You might want to avoid certain models that have scored low in reliability surveys. Here’s a breakdown of the most unreliable used cars:
| Model | Reliability Score |
|---|---|
| 2017 Land Rover Discovery | 70.7% |
| Audi Q5 (2008-2017) | 73.4% |
| Audi A3 (2020-present) | 74.2% |
| Peugeot 3008 diesel (2017-present) | 74.4% |
| Jeep (various models) | Worst manufacturer overall |
Keep these models in mind when searching for used cars near me or browsing sale listings for a used Discovery for sale.
Faults and Repairs
When you own a Land Rover Discovery, you’ll likely encounter various faults that require repairs, which can be costly and time-consuming.
From oil leaks and faulty power seats in the 1995 model to windshield failure and infotainment system issues in the 2017 model, common problems can arise.
Understanding these issues and their associated repair costs, which can average around $719 per year, is vital to maintaining your vehicle.
Common Issues
As you consider purchasing a used Land Rover Discovery, it’s essential to be aware of the common issues that can arise in various model years.
Oil leaks, electrical issues, and faulty components are recurring problems across many models. Engine problems, transmission issues, and airbag malfunctions can also occur, leading to higher maintenance costs.
Additionally, some models are prone to windshield failure, which can cause electrical damage, and infotainment system issues.
Be cautious of these potential faults to guarantee you’re prepared for any repairs that may arise, and to safeguard against unexpected expenses.
Repair Costs
You’ve got a good idea of the common issues that can arise in Land Rover Discoveries, now it’s time to weigh the costs associated with repairing these faults.
As a used luxury SUV, maintenance costs can add up quickly.
Here are some examples of repair costs you might face:
- Radiator replacement: up to $1800
- Faulty components: cruise control, rear door lock, and water pump failures can lead to higher-than-average maintenance and repair costs
- Electrical damage: abrupt engine shutdown, compromised front wiring harness, and windshield failure can result in costly repairs
- Brake failure: malfunctioning ABS system can cause comprehensive brake failure, leading to costly repairs and potential safety risks
Reliability by Brand
The reliability of a vehicle is often a top concern for car buyers, and it’s essential to contemplate the track record of different brands.
When considering a Land Rover Discovery, you should know that Land Rover ranks as the second most unreliable brand, according to the What Car? Reliability Survey.
Jeep takes the top spot as the most unreliable brand.
On the other hand, luxury brands don’t always certify better reliability, and paying more for an upmarket badge doesn’t warrant better reliability.
In fact, Lexus and Toyota top the reliability charts, proving that a luxury SUV like the Discovery doesn’t necessarily mean reliability.
Industry Insights
As you delve into the Land Rover Discovery’s reliability, you’ll find that industry insights reveal some surprises.
For instance, the notion that premium brands guarantee better reliability is a myth, and you shouldn’t assume that a higher price tag means fewer maintenance issues.
Reliability Expectations
Land Rover’s reputation for building rugged and reliable off-road vehicles doesn’t necessarily translate to the Discovery’s reliability on paved roads.
As a used car buyer, you should be aware of the Discovery’s average to below-average reliability score of 72 out of 100.
- 21% of Land Rover Discovery owners experienced a fault with their car, with 83% of faults solved under warranty, free of charge.
- The 2017 Land Rover Discovery was named the most unreliable used car, with a score of 70.7%.
- Maintaining a used Land Rover Discovery can cost around $719 per year, with some repairs costing up to $1800.
- Premium brands don’t always guarantee better reliability, and marketing perceptions don’t always meet expectations, making the Land Rover Discovery a prime example to ponder.
Premium Brand Myth
You often associate premium brands with superior quality and reliability, but the Land Rover Discovery‘s subpar performance in this area debunks this myth.
As a luxury SUV, the Discovery should epitomize excellence, but its history tells a different story.
Despite its high price tag, used Discovery models often experience mechanical issues, affecting their resale value.
This raises questions about the brand’s commitment to quality and durability.
When considering a Land Rover Discovery for sale, it’s essential to research the best and worst years to guarantee you’re making an informed purchase decision, rather than relying solely on the premium brand reputation.
Maintenance Imperative
Reliability issues in the Land Rover Discovery can be mitigated with proper maintenance, which is why it’s imperative to stay on top of servicing and repairs.
You’ll want to research and avoid specific models with known problems, like the 2005-2009 models with transmission issues.
When car shopping, prioritize maintenance records and consider using tools like CoPilot Compare to find the best used cars.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Regular oil changes and filter replacements
- Timely replacement of worn-out parts, like brake pads and rotors
- Inspecting and maintaining the air suspension system
- Addressing any recalls or software updates promptly
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Land Rover Range Rover, Land Rover Evoque, and Land Rover LR3.Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.
