http://www.ecarlist.com/web/1501/veh...-Discovery-HSE

]I am considering buying a 2003 discovery (asking price is 9,900) with 88,000 miles. I test drove it and it runs fine (no knocks, couldn't find any leaks). It's vin is in the oil pump problem range. Should I keep looking or consider this one? I've attached a pic. Any and all advice/comments greatly appreciated.

 

Welcome. You'll find the factory shop and owner's manuals in the "RAVE" download below. When buying one, if it is more than pocket change for you, having an indy mechanic look at it is a good idea, he can test oil pressure, etc. An hour of his time could save you a boat load. There are plenty of forum members in the VIN range, and it appears that not every truck was affected. But use something like www.statewidelist.com to search all of craigslist in your state for rovers, it will sort by metro area, and you'll have an idea of the going price.. IMHO you may have some negotiating room.

 

I do have an appointment with a mechanic. I also copied one of the posts from here listing a lot of the things I should have the mechanic look for.

 

Sounds like you're on top of it. Best advice I as given when looking and can pass along- Don't be afraid to walk away on the smallest of problems. They're are plenty of good Discos out there, but you don't want one that's been abused and had the problems covered over for a sale.

 

If you buy, go ahead a purchase the head gasket kit from AB for when the time comes. It comes with most of the other gaskets you'll need to make repairs. Change your coolant, rebuild the drive shaft, a 40 weight oil in that sucker and go.

 

For that kind of money, I would really look for a 2004 so you get a CDL. Adding one to a 2003 is too complicated and expensive.

 

A cdl is not necessary for most conditions, I have been very surprised how well a properly functioning traction control system has performed with good tires. If you can find a 04 in your price range then yes it is a better deal then a no cdl 03 but, in my area the 04s cost a good bit more. I would make sure your mechanic checks the oil pressure just to make sure you are not dealing with a cracked pump.

 

That one is rite down the street from me.Its pretty nice but you can find a nice 04 for that price.

 

Oh believe me I don't plan on giving them asking price. I've been in car sales so I have a pretty good idea on their mark up. Used to work for Bennett Jaguar/Land rover/Infinity. That's when I fell in love with these vehicles, just can't afford a new one.