I recently posted about being interested in purchasing a used Disco-. Something in the range of 2001-2004 with around 60k. I have found a couple and want to begin checking some of them out but I definitely feel that there are certain questions, especially with these cars, that i should be asking at the dealerships or private parties. Can anyone give me some general advice on what specific to a used Disco I should be inquiring about. Seems like alot of talk about certain recalls or procedures that will inevitable be costly if they havent already been performed. Today I'm a checking out 2 2003's. But later this week there will be others, a 2002 and a 2004. Thanks in advance.

 

My advise is to avoid the 03 and go straight to the 04. Everyone will tell you its the best year of the Disco for many reasons. One being, it has Center Diff. Lock (Great for off-road). Another being, it is the last year of the Disco II as we know it so many of the "glitches" are worked out. Also, many of the 03's had oil pump failures so they come with a huge risk factor. Not all 03's are bad, but if an 04 is on the table, then I wouldnt even consider an 03. One thing that is great to have on any disco is a list of service records. Most have it in the owners manual, BUT sometimes they get stolen from the trucks. In that case, you may want to have a mechanic look over it before you buy, unless you know what to look for.

Just an FYI, you must use Premium fuel, its a must and actaully will end up saving you money in the long run. Also, buy about $1000 under your budget because sometimes the previous owners neglet these vehicles before sale and leave you with problems. That extra $1000 can be used to get it back up to tip top shape. My first couple months of ownership were trying, but now my disco is amazing and never has problems (knock on wood). If you see ANYTHING that concerns you jump on here and ask about it, someone on here always knows the answer to just about any question. Good luck.

 

Why not tell us what you want to use this Disco for, how much on and off road and how much you want to spend?

 

Thx- Sure thing...

I am not looking to do much off roading. To-From work, the occasional weekend excursion, I do alot of kayaking so I would buy a rack and it would also be nice to have a truck that can handle the beach so I can launch easily. I love the looks, and the idea that it can go "anywhere". On paper, I am probably not someone who trully needs one of these, but I have liked them for so long, and every guy needs a toy. At the same time, financially Im not in a position to throw money away. Im looking to spend 7-9k especially if what the previous poster said is true, that ill need to drop an addt'l 1k just to get to par. I have been looking at Disco's from 2001-2004. Am expecting too much to get a vehicle with around 60k for that price? Any sugg's? How important is low mileage with these vehicles? Is it less about mileage and more about service records? I need to say up front I am not mechanically inclined in any sense of the word. I can change oil and thats it. It really sounds like 04 is the way to go? How about models/ SE? etc... Thanks

 

here is a link to one i am looking at...any thoughts?


http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Cars-...3A1|240%3A1318

 

Low mileage, has been inspected and has a warranty, not a bad way to go.

 

I like the looks of that one on paper, and it looks to be well taken care of. Always good if you can go have a look yourself.

 

Yes agree, I'm in the market myself and i must say you need to inspect. Print a few resources from here and take them with you. Check records, bring creeper and slide uner the truck!!! We as buyers have the upper hand. If your paying cash even better. Do not feel bad about low balling either, these dealers buy these trucks for a lot less than you think.

 

If you can get one with over 90k on it, the head gaskets go bad around 70-80k and if you can get one that has already had them replaced then better for you.
The front drive shaft MUST be rebuilt with greaseable u-joints, $250 to have it done, $7000 for a new transmission if you dont.
These are great and very reliable trucks, but they are like women, they like attention.
Do a search for the "3 amigos", "drive shaft or ujoints" and "SLS".

 

Just an FYI, that one is an S- no fog lights in the bumpers, no heated seats, no sunroofs. An SE has all of that. Add a 7 to the end and you get 2 jump seats in the back. with or without rear air. depending on model.

You can also add Navigation and a DVD.

Basically those are your options. Not sure if ACE was an option in 04..