Hi, I am looking very hard at buying a new LR. I am leaning toward the Disco II, so really I just need some opinions on years, I like the 03 headlights and instrument cluster way more then the earlyier ones, but also read about the oil pump failure and I just dont want to deal with that. So it looks like a pre face lift disco II is in order, What are some common issues with these ( things you wish you had known) I should look for I kinda need a buying guide. I want an all stock one for now, 98% daily driver, I like that conering control system(I forget the name) but it looks complicated and expensive to fix, is it an option or did it come stock on the II? ALso, can someone break down the models and options or point me to a list? What are the differences between the SE, the HSE and the LR7 Please feel free to ad anything at all I may have missed.
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Each model has their quirks. I like the D2's that received the face lifts too. If you like it, then just go for it. I don't recall the model years, but perhaps you might be able to find one under factory warranty to give you some protection?

On all of these, the Self Leveling System (SLS) bags usually go out. If you want the dealer to replace them, they get close to $800. But we can help you through it too.

PS You're talking about ACE, Active Cornering Enhancement

 

Why do the SLS bags go out?
Is $800 parts and labor?
Will the truck work ok W/O them?

 

The SLS bags (air suspension) helps maintain the ride height in the rear. They go out because it's a fabric bag and all the crap from the road (especially if you live in a cold climate where they salt and sand the roads) gets onto the bag and it eventually "corrodes" the bags and leaks air. The truck will work without them, but you'll see a visible difference (the rear will ride low on one or both sides) and the ride will be much harsher.

Around $800 for parts and labor. If the D2 is from a warmer climate area, then you'll get more life out of them.

Here in CT, I have 125k on my D2 and the dealer wanted $600 the first time (about 60k miles) then wanted $720 the second time (around 110k). You can replace it yourself and you can do a simple soapy water test to see if the bags are indeed leaking.

I recently switched them out to regular coil and shocks. No more SLS issues, but I do miss the whirring of the compressor and it does ride pretty smooth with that SLS back there.

 

Rankor, thanks, I live in norcal so no salt up here. Thanks for letting me know about that, thats exactly what I was trying to find out, issues like these, what about the models?anyone know of a thread that covers this stuff?

 

Avoid an '03 unless it has a new engine. 2002's stink as there is no CDL and the 18" wheels stink. I would look for an '04, '01, '00 or '99 DII make sure that they at least have the CDL nipple on the center diff.

 

Oh right, thanks lipad. the 18" wheels really stink. but for an everyday driver, you'll be ok. they look nice, but talk about replacement cost - ouch. go with an online source for tires or sears.

we have town fair tire here and they do beat all prices. i almost went with sears on a set, but called them up and said they'd beat it. they didn't even look at the sears website. you probably have a shop like that in norcal.

and definitely test drive it. make sure the transmission is making crisp shifts.

 

if you have the money get an 04. the best disco 2 made.

 

Have you read though this?
https://landroverforums.com/forum/sh...ad.php?t=26352

 

Welcome to the site! I think you need an '04! The previous posters must be quoting dealer prices for the SLS... I have fixed mine once for approx $300. I guess it depends on what goes out...