Hey guys, I apologize if this topic has come up before, I did some searches and couldn't find the answers I was looking for.

The wife and I are looking to get a new DD and love the style of the 2004+ RRs. I've personally been an RR fan for years, though haven't owned one. My question is: How reliable are the essential parts (engine, transmission, suspension)? I know Rovers are known to have some gremlins in the electrical systems, but I don't mind dealing with that, I just don't want to have to worry about buying a new engine or transmission within a few years of buying it. Note: We have been looking at RRs with about 60k miles on them.

 

Do yourself a favour. Stay away from these beasts. I have a 03 RR and it's expensive to maintain and not dependable. My $500 Jetta is better.

 

Odd, I have a 2002 and it cost me $400 last year in repairs, and no I do not have a warranty or do the work myself. That being said these cars will cost your more to repair as will any luxury brand. If you take care of them they will take care of you. 2003 was the first model year of the Range Rover your looking at. The engine was a BMW engine. Engine and transmission in these IMO are pretty bullet proof. Suspension was better than older Rovers but can be a problem with the air bags. I would look at a 2006 and up, these had a Jaguar engine in them and have less problems IMO.

 

My honest opinion. Buy a newer model with a warranty. The electronics and gismos are great to have, but not worth the $$ to own. When the electronics start to go, get rid of the car or stay clear one that has them. In addition, the resale value on these are also real bad. You'll never get you $$ back.

 

My advice for potential L322 or "New Range Rover" buyers is to get a 2007+ and try to get one with about 35,000 on the odo and all of the paperwork. It may cost a little more in the beginning but knowing what was done to the truck and keeping it maintained will definitely save more money in the long run.

 

Thanks for your input guys, we definitely plan on getting an extended warranty with it, I think the added money up front would be worth it over the life of the warranty