I'm new to the forum and looking to buy one of these beautys.
Questions are as follow...

Are just as capable as the rest of Disco II's stock?
What problems did they fix with these model years?
What problems can I expect?
I am going to have it inspected by a professional mechanic, what should I have them look for?
What can I expect to pay?

These are just some of the questions I have, i'm sure more will come up ;P

 

'04 is said to be the best Disco, but that doesn't mean you should expect a Toyota ownership experience from it! LOL

Stay away from '03, unless you're STEALING it. '03 had a bad run of engine blocks leading to oil pump failure and catastrophic failure. There is an affected range of VIN's you can check, but you're better off just going for an '04.

Plus, '04 has the CDL, so if you want to do any off-roading you'll be much better off.

For an '04, expect to pay anywhere from 9k to 14k depending on mileage and where you buy it.

Have the pre-purchase inspection done by the LR dealer, they'll know what to look for. Or, post on here where you're at and one of the members can refer you to a good independent shop in your area.

Cheers!

 

thanks for the advice, funny you mention a toyota experience because this is what i own right now

 

but this is soooo much prettier

 

i couldnt agree with you more, thats why i want one

 

4Runners are nice trucks, I liked that body style of your better than the current body style. I referenced the Toyota ownership experience because of my Lexus LX 470, I bought it CPO back in 2004 and have done nothing but drive it. It's been a great truck, almost to a fault! It's the wife's truck, and is great for long family trips.

I bought my LX with 60k on it and it now has 170k on it, I intend to put another 150k on it before getting a really nice 1-owner LX 570. I bought my Disco with 43k on it, and had to replace the head gaskets at 45k! (LR stepped up and covered the work, I bought it from a LR dealer!)

I love both of my trucks, but they're very different! Will you be keeping the 4Runner?

 

No I will have to sell the 4Runner for the Disco

 

as previously said, stay away from the 03 unless you figure in replacing the block to the price.

Just have your mechanic go through the engine bay and look for any leaks what soever and document. Might tell him the head gaskets are a weak spot so he checks more carefully.

Other than that, check all of the electronics twice. and make sure the diff lock shifter works freely.