I am looking to purchase my first Discovery. I have found some in my area that fit what I'm looking for, and are in my price range. The vehicles I have found range from 2003 to 2005, and 60-90k in mileage. What should I specifically look for/listen for during the test drive and full run through? Also, what should I be checking for in past maintenance and repairs (beyond the normal brakes,tires,oil that most salesmen will try to convince you with)?

 

https://landroverforums.com/forum/di...scovery-21328/

I cant help you on the LR3 ('05 Discovery), I have driven a couple, all I really know is that if it has the V6 it is a Ford Explorer engine, if it has the V8 it is a Jaguar engine.

 

First, what will you be using the Rover for?
Second, since you know nothing about Rovers, once you decide on a model, take the truck to a local Rover shop and have them do a pre-purchase inspection, they will know what to look for and could save you lots of money in the long run.

 

The use of Discovery that I purchase will be for everyday use, and minimal boat towing. I will not be putting a lot of miles it on seeing that I live in the same town that I live in. I am looking for some pointers on what to look for, some red flags, to know about while I shop for the best fit.

 

continued.... In more detail: I am between two vehicles. One being a 2004 Discovery SE with 86k miles, selling for $11,500. The other vehicle is a 2004 Discovery SE7 with 79k miles, selling for $10,900. They both test drove great. So I am just throwing the brief descriptions out there to see if anyone has any pointers and advice for buying a vehicle at the condition they are currently in. Thanks guys.

 

For some, the SE7 is of more value because of their family size, for people who want to haul a lot the 3rd. row can get in the way. Both those vehicles have pretty much the same standard features, the extra options would be SLS, rear air suspension and ACE for better steering performance.
What ever you buy have it inspected first and then plan on some maintenance to get it current including replacing or rebuilding the front drive shaft.

 

How much can I expect to spend to replace or rebuild the front drive shaft?

 

To have the front driveshaft rebuilt by a shop will cost you ~$200, to buy a aftermarket front drive shaft you are looking at ~$350.
To buy a OEM front driveshaft you are looking at ~$900.
If it breaks while driving you are looking at ~$7000 because you will be buying a new transmission too.

 

Well that makes me feel a lot better. Thank you for the heads up. What can I expect to have fixed at the 90k to 100k mark?