My insurance company has decided to call my 98 Discovery a total loss after a minor accident. Looking for a replacement and think I may have found one.

Question: The vehicle is a 2001 that the seller says runs and looks great, he did however tell me that it needs a new head gasket. What can anyone tell me about risks? I have been told that the cost is around $1000 for replacement of the gasket and timing belt. That amount still would seem to be a good deal for this vehicle.

 

First, how mechanical are you? Second there are no timing belts on a Rover.
How many miles on the 01?
What will the insurance company give you for your 98?
Have you looked at the 01, will the engine start, is there oil in the crank case?

 

The timing belt came through the sales person. Talked with the garage that inspected the vehicle and they said the vehicle was in pretty bad shape. I sort of doubt that it was as bad as he was letting on. He didn't seem to be a fan of Land Rovers.

At any rate, I have decided to get the salvage title for my vehicle and have it fixed. At least I know most of the problems with my vehicle. Trying to find a decent land rover under $5,000 is difficult to say the least.

I never got a chance to look at the 01 in person. it has 99,000 miles on it and the pictures of the vehicle look very clean.

 

Head gaskets are around a $1500 job (10 hours plus parts). DIY is about $500 and a few days, you need to have a pretty good set of tools also.