Just posting for those that dare keep their defender beyond the warranty period. I'm currently at 97k miles. Adding to the list that includes PCV valve replacement to fix a misfire/limp mode issue.

First new issue was leaking transmission fluid, which I found while doing an oil change. I noticed oil on the skid plate and it was still wet. I had a transmission flush a few thousand miles prior and thought maybe something wasn't tightened. The shop new exactly what it was. Some kind of plastic plug was leaking. I think the mechanic said it was an inspection plug, can't remember. Side note, I pumped my oil out with a mightly vac before pulling the drain plug. I got exactly 250ml more oil from the drain plug that I couldn't get with the mighty vac. I also installed that fumoto drain plug so I don't have to remove the skid plates next time.

Second issue is a bit more serious, but also easy to detect. The idler pulley (part # LR073726) bearing has failed. I noticed an RPM-dependent whining noise the morning of a 600 mile drive back home. It is noticeable in the cabin in neutral and while driving slowly. Part was back-ordered at local dealers and we had to order one. The pulley is part of the tensioner assembly along with another pulley (part # LR114017). The mechanic recommended replacing the entire assembly. If you suspect this, loosen the belt and spin the pulley. Mine sounded like it was full of sand when spinning.

 

That's like minor things really.

 

Not too bad for 97k miles lMO.

By the time my old Defender had done 97k l had practically rebuilt it.

 

That's great news. I'm hoping to drive mine into the ground and was hoping I would be double the 100 mark by the time that happened. Good to hear that it's just typical issues at 100 in this example.

 

I have an extended warranty to 100k miles

 

I agree these aren't major issues. Just thought it might help someone in the future.

Update on pulley: by the time the parts came in, the second pulley was on the way out. Definitely replace both if you have this issue. The mechanic said the pulleys, oil leak, and the PCV valve are all common issues on the 2.0 engine.

I attached a photo of the oil leak. The skid plate caught a lot of it and I never noticed any oil spots on on the ground.