Hello, I am looking to purchase a 03 to 04 discovery. We have out grown our 02 pathfinder and need something that can seat at least 6. I really love the discoverys and have checked out a couple, but something that bothers me is all the talk about headgasket issues. One of the discoverys we test drove, looked great and drove great but the owner casually informed us it uses about a quart of antifreez every two tanks or so of gas. He said the radiator system had been pressure tested and there was no external leaks. So, Im assuming head gasket.
I guess my question is, I know these vehicles had head gasket problems, but once the head gasket is replaced does it permently take care of the problem or will it just blow again in 60k miles or so?
I talked to two different land rover service departments about it and they all said to expect replacing head gaskets every 60-70k miles. Is this right? Thanks so much for any feed back I need a reliable family hauler I can trust that can deal with the rough country roads and snow where I live. thanks-jon

 

Just read some posts in this forum... you'll get the picture.

 

I have read through quite a few and realize the head gasket failure is common. Im trying to find out if repeat failure is common after the original head gasket is changed.
thanks for the reply-jon

 

My 04 had to have head gaskets done at 42k and 66k

 

Thanks for the reply! I was a little concerned that might be the case. Leaning toward maybe an '05 LR3. Does anyone know how well they are holding up?

 

Different breed of engine, not the same problems.

 

Lol, looks like mine made it to 120k. Ray of sunshine I guess ;-)

 

Its really depends on so many variables when they fail that you just can't say with these Disco's. I have an 03 that has 60K and has never had the head gaskets replaced and I have an 04 that I replace the gasket at 60K. The LR3 is a much different ride and I'm sure has it's own set of problems. If you love the 03-04 Discovery as I do, go for it. I think you a lot of car for the buck (others may not agree, I know). Not to mention the people on this site are incredible at helping out when a problem does arise.

Good Luck

 

Thanks for the replys! the discovery is an awsome looking ride.

 

Also, something I didn't see mentioned is the '03 VIN range for defective motors. Be sure to check that out.