Hi guys.

I am looking at an 03 Disco with 36k miles. What should I checkmechanically to make sure I am not buying a lemon?

 

Check the VIN number against the VIN range effected by bad oil pumps. That is the major thing to watch with a 2003. Do a search on here to find the VIN range. If your vehicle falls in that range I would probably stay away because you will be buying a new engine if it fails. It is not guaranteed that your oil pump will fail if in that range but you have to weigh the risk of having to pay to replace an engine. LR will not cover the replacement costs.

 

Thanks what is the best way to search for the bad VINs?

 

Found it - and it is within the bad VIN range. Is there a way to check whether this has been repaired already or do I pass?

 

How much are they asking for it? That will make a big difference whether to buy or pass. I think a dealer can check the engine serial number against the VIN to see if it is the original engine but I don't know that for sure. Like I said, even though it is in the bad range that does not guarantee you will have a problem. I guess you have to decide whether it is worth the risk.

 

Hey AK Rover do you have any pics of your radio install am looking at getting that radio in my D2

 

Asking 13,500 - at local land rover dealer

 

Getting back to the original question, since it is a LR dealer selling it they should have maintenance records available for the vehicle and be able to tell if the engine has been replaced. The only fix for the oil pump issue that I have read about is a new engine. It is my understanding that most fail if they are going to at around 50k so i would ask the dealer if you buy, and the oil pump fails and destroys the engine, if they will cover the cost of the engine. A new rover engine will cost around $12k installed.

lrd2 - I will email you the picture of my deck installed.

 

Pass on it.
03's are selling for $8000 when they are not on the oil pump list, less if they are. So you know, the repair is a new engine and Rover won't pay for it.
If you found the right Disco, what are you planning to use it for?