Is that the year with the bad vin numbers ? What exactly are the problems and what is the range of bad vin numbers ? I am looking to buy another disco but have been avoiding 03's even though i have seen some nice ones, right color, 7 seats, good shape but maybe they are not all bad. Any advice ?

 

Do a search on here for pages of 03 issues, then keep you 01, that if in good shape will save you a bunch and have more traction then an 03.

 

I wrecked my 01 in november, thats why i'm looking. but ya i will do a search. Thanks mike.

 

While he asked the question. I have read about the differences between the years, but I was wondering if it was due to the quality control issues in 2003. Was 2003 when Ford had a stake in the company? We have a 2003 se7 and my in-laws have a 1999 se. Ours has tan leather theirs gray. Theirs is way more comfortable. It is even a little smoother to drive. Both is around 75k on the clock.

I also know that the 1999 was dealer maintained and owned by and older gentleman. Ours is more unknown. Purchase out of state and from an independent dealer who knew little about it. So far both have been nice cars.

Since we got ours, 2 other family members got them too. We live in a smaller town in Eastern Michigan and it seems like they are showing up more and more around.


Scott

 

Well I searched a little and did see that Ford owned some or all (majority shares) in 2003. I didn't see a nice breakdown thru the years for other ones though. I wish I would have found this site before I found ours. Only requirements I had was se7 (kids) Black/ tan interior, low milage and in our price range. We drove to NY to get it too. All and all though we like ours and the help we have gotten here has already save money. Plus the feeling of fixing/ maintaining my own stuff.


Sorry to ramble tonight. I found a link that broke it down for me. Their history is pretty cool. I still want a defender.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Land_Rover

Thanks everyone!

Scott

 

the deal is why but an 03 with the chance of big problems and no cdl when you can get a year with cdl.

 

The going price for '03s and '04s is really different and that is why.

In regard to Ford, what I understand is in '03 & '04 the work on quality control and vendor part pricing and controls. As you can see in the LR3, some of the features like the dash air vents are very much like the new F-150 air vents as they made more changes in these later years.

 

I have an 03 in the death zone.....no big deal.....

 

I have an 03 with 110k... no problems and good oil pressure.... then again I have an 03 thats out of the "problem" VIN range. When I was buying I knew of the VIN issue... I found about 7 03 Discos before I found one outside the VIN range. Most seem to be with in it. If you can find a 03 for a good deal outside the VIN range... it's only $400 more to add the CDL to make it like all other years. Plus with the 03 you get the nifty "modern" head lights! :P

I bought an 03 for these reasons.

1. Couldnt afford an 04... big price difference
in 03 vs 04
2. I refused to get a Disco with the old looking head lights. Hate them.
3. Was outside the VIN problem range.

Had 87k on it when I bought it...
Rebuilt the front driveshaft for peace of mind.
Replaced the water pump
Replaced the front brake pads
Repaired the ABS modulator to address random 3 amigo visits
Bought a CDL housing, shifter, ****, gears, etc from a local junk yard.

I've just been driving it ever since.

 

I have a 2003 in the "Death Vin Range" with 94,000 on it now. I installed a digital oil pressure gauge and keep my eye on it. Its been good since the day I bought it with only the standard idle hiccups with bad O2 sensors, wires/plugs. The oil pressure gauge is probably the best prevention and if you are able to work on the truck yourself then there is nothing to be afraid of expect time under the hood and parts costs.