Hi there,
I've put the down payment on a 2011 LR2 with 86,000 miles on it. The car looks in good condition, 3 owners, and is being offered for about US$7.500. It drives well, took it on the highway as well.
There was slight noise from front axels when turning at low speeds, which I suspect are the wheel bearings that will need to get changed. How much should I budget for this?
There was also a faint noise at the start when increasing rpm, which did not come directly from the engine. What might it be?
Will be very grateful for any input that can help me make the best possible deal.
Thanks a lot
Johan

 

I assume the 3.2 i6 engine?

That's good mileage and if the car was garaged and in good cosmetic shape, I'd be tempted at that price.

If maintained, these cars are reasonably reliable, the entire drivetrain is Volvo.

Definitely take it to a good independent mechanic for a pre-buy inspection, unless you have mechanical experience yourself.

Older LR2's were prone to rear differential failure at about that mileage, it would manifest as a persistent whine that might last for thousands before actual failure. I assume the 2011 got the revised gearbox and would not be subject to that, but something to be aware of.

I'd be leery of any leaking fluids that leave fresh spots on the ground. If the undercarriage is dirty and oily from slow leaks that's probably OK.

I'd be OK with replacing wheel bearings, that wouldn't be a budget breaker. But I'd get to the bottom of the other noise... you don't want to have to replace any gearboxes.

If you do buy the car, immediately change ALL of the fluids and filters, especially the gearboxs (including HALDEX AOC fluid and filter). The Land Rover mx schedule is TOTALLY inadequate, and the long time owners have learned to change fluids every 40-50K miles and it's likely that has never been done. It's probably fine at 86K, but it's definitely time to change all of them. There are discussion threads on this forum and the UK freelander forum.