Hey all, I’m looking at taking the plunge into the world of Land Rover with an early 2000s Disco. I’m new to LR. Anything specific to watch out for? The one I’m currently looking at has 143k miles, with a replacement engine that has 115k on it. I’ll be looking to swapping the stock stereo head unit with a CarPlay touchscreen with backup camera, among other things. Looking forward to this forum for great tips!

 

https://landroverforums.com/forum/di...d-rant-115082/

 

Thanks! I’m definitely not delusional thinking it would be perfect. I already have a 65 Mustang that I’ve restored and continue working on to keep running, so I know it would always be an uphill battle!

 

Just be prepared. An analog Mustang is significantly different than the half analog, half digital Disco 2. That’s not bad, but you need to half geek, half artisan to mess with a Disco. Some electrical issues require strong technical understanding and model specific diagnostic equipment, some issues are old fashioned car knowledge.

It can be extremely exasperating, but when they are right it is heaven. If you want to get an idea of the ups and downs, read my thread- or any other build thread- and that will give you an idea.

2 last thoughts:

- I don’t care how perfect ones seems, it will still take a year and generally a couple grand to get one right

- Make sure whatever you get is as near to bone stock as possible- sooooo many of these things have been poorly maintained or just plain neglected by this time, you’ll end up not only fixing things that were worn out due to age, but also correcting others’ mistakes

It’s a heck of a ride and I’m on my 3rd. Sometimes I get pissed at it, other times I love it. Each Disco is different and has its own personality and set of issues.

 

@JHM I have one, had for about 5.5 years. It had some shoddy maintenance, and I did head gaskets a couple of years back. My suggestion is to hold off on changing anything even the sound system, just drive it for a year and get everything sorted out.

There are 3 major exceptions to that,the cooling system and PCV system - those generally need immediate attention. I suggest reading up on the inline thermostat mod and the PCV mod and doing them right after purchase.

Then replace all fluids and do a front drive shaft inspection, the drive shaft should be removed and properly checked out.

After that drive and find out what other little stuff needs attention, there is always something after 19 to 20 years