If you don't know what you're looking at find someone who does so they can help you with the purchase AND to learn about the trucks specifically.

Your faith in the dealership is quaint. With the last brand new Range Rover I owned, every time it went in with a list of things that needed to be done under warranty, the truck came back with even more issues. Maybe what you need to do is shop for a good Land Rover mechanic before you even buy a Land Rover. Hell, if he has a shop he may even have used Rovers for sale. That way you can walk around in his shop and feel better about yourself.

I'll ask again, where are you located????

You can tell us and we'll help for god's sake. We're not going to rush into your town and buy up all the available DII's to drive the price up on you. Maybe we know someone in your area that might be of assistance to you in you purchase. It couldn't hurt to let us know what market you're in.

Finally, you may think that story I told you of my two customers was a fluke but I'll tell you right here and now, Tom, my customer with the $4K '04 knows his Rovers well. He's owned a number of them over the years and has owned British sports cars (currently a Jensen Healy) so he KNOWS how to buy a used vehicle.

 

"We know, full well, these are tempermental beasts that require a lot of attention and they are never cheap to own. Some people learn that the hard way, others are more prepared for the reality."

Never said I didn't realize that, NOR did I say I don't like to get my hands dirty. You have assumed a lot here. I actually look forward to working on this vehicle, but I do not want to live under the hood.

There's really no need to call people ignorant either, by the way. I'm a very educated, professional person.

At least I was smart enough to start this thread and get opinions. Also seems weird to me you are the only one here that has such a strong negative opinion. Maybe you're the guru. Hell, I don't know...

As I stated earlier, if it's so easy to get this vehicle for cheaper, then find me one to my specs and I will HAPPILY send you a finder's fee.

 

Buy the truck, you'll never find a better one. The dealer is the best. They'll take care of any and all problems you have with the truck and they'll be so reasonable. You did it. You found the best deal out there in a matter of a couple of days. Such a savvy buyer. It's clear you're buying a Rover that will last well over another 100K.

Did I get it right, is that what you wanted to hear. Good, I'm out.

 

I am located in Huntsville, Alabama. These are rare here and I swear to you EVERY private seller has been hiding

PLEASE don't get me wrong. I am not getting testy and I appreciate the input. All of it...

Why would I need a special "Rover mechanic"? They aren't rocket ships. Pretty sure a mechanic with 35 years experience and myself who CAN turn a wrench, could make their way around?? What am I missing here???

 

^ peace of mind and reliability are not synonyms with a land rover, and no offense, but especially a Discovery 2(the Discovery 1 is more reliable in my opinion).

I just checked the KBB value, fair purchase price is 3500, high retail is 4200. And that is for Southern California pricing which is higher than most of the US. You realize the SD is the base model, no frllls?


So, the dealer peace of mind is at a max worth 1k. I would slap down 5k and tell them you are ready to walk, not a penny more.

Things to ask about?

1) front driveshaft- if they have not replaced it make them do it before buying. It can grenade and take out your trans, I'm sure that is not covered under warranty.

2) the cooling system- bring a live real time OBD 2 reader and look at the temps. If it gets above 210, tell them they need to complete rebus the cooling system( radiator, thermostat, fan clutch, and water pump)

3) is there any even slight wobble in the steering at any speeds? Tell them to fix that.

4) when were the plugs and wires last changed? The dealer wants 5 hours of labor to do that which takes 20 minutes on my Alfa Romeo.

5) how are the shocks? Push down on the corners of the car, is it stuff? Does it recover?

6) check the underside for rust, not just body panels but the frame?

7) is there any leaks underneath? Steering box, front plate, difs, transfer case, transmission. An overpriced dealer cert truck should not leak, I'll guarantee that one is an oily mess underneath.

8) since it's an SD, prob no sunroofs. But if so, run a hose over them and look for leaks.

Lastly, does it come with an air freshener tree on the rearview mirror? Ok that's a joke.

 

You need a special rover mechanic because there are occurances that only a rover mechanic will know how to diagnose and repair efficiently and affordably. Believe me.

Or you need to spend all your spare time on the forum and get a mechanic that will listen to you.

 

pretty much. especially in areas that they arent common, youll have regular mechanics flat out telling you they wont work on it bc it has that green oval badge on it. my buddy is a bmw mechanic and he says they get cars all of the time on a flatbed in pieces from non-bmw shops who couldnt figure out a problem... doesnt matter if its MB, bmw, LR, porsche... the same thing happens.

 

You've had like 2 valid points in your posts. They were both common knowledge.. Even to me. The rest was snarky, negative and worthless. You seem to be respected on the forum and I am sure it's for a good reason, but you should work on your etiquette and how to illustrate your points, if you have any...

"My buddy got a cheap one and it runs great" kind of stuff isn't helping me. Sure there are cheaper ones out there, but AGAIN they are cheap for a reason 9 outta 10 times.

I'm not looking for someone to agree with me and say that silly **** you did above, but I would like for someone to weigh in like the other people are with info that is actually helpful. If I want someone to say "It's too much and you're ignorant" I'll call my ex-wife.... Okay, so you'd pull a part off a truck and sell it for $40. Cool. How much would a NEW INSTALLED part cost? I'm not gonna lie, my budget for maintenance is fine and if I am too busy, it will go to my local Rover dealer (since it's covered by a warranty and all)

SO, what's helpful?

What do I offer? (Paul will probably say $300)
What should I ask them to check/replace specifically before I leave with it? (i've read about drive shafts and other things that typically need attention)

Looking for info VALUABLE to MY situation.

Lastly, words like "reliable" and "peace of mind" are totally acceptable terms here. Again, while these have issues, it's not a time bomb or space ship.

 

@Abron: THAT'S what I'm talking about! Thank you very very much. Valuable information there that I will print and take to the dealer with me.

You fully understand what I am asking. Thanks for your time.

 

Go to KBB.com and type in the year, model, and miles. It will give you the value for your area. Print that out(excellent condition means all service records, no issues, etc.)

Bring that print out with you to negotiate.

Good luck