Hello all,

Some of you may have seen my Range Rover question, but if you haven't, the reason why I'm asking this question is due to the fact that my parents need to get another family vehicle, and they are also interested in a LR3. If we went the LR3 route, chances are we would be looking at purchasing one from the early to mid 2000s.

Now, my dad and I are big DIYs when it comes to vehicle maintenance, and have experience working on both large and European cars. Our question is what are the LR3s like to work on? Additionally, whats their reliability like? We don't mind having to work on vehicles a bit more often if the quality is there, but that said, we don't necessarily want to bite off more than we can chew. So any input would be great!

Thanks all!

 

I have a 2006. It's a Ford/Land Rover. Easy to work on. Many areas that will commonly need repair or replacement. Lots of parts on eBay. Several aftermarket suppliers in the US and the UK. Parts are pricey, but not astronomical.


Worth getting a GAP diagnostics IIDTool Bluetooth. Very helpful and lots of functionality.
If you don't plan to go offroad, you might be better with a Toyota or a Ford.
Land Rovers are special though! Do the maintenance, especially Cam chain guides or you could easily loose a motor. That's how I picked mine up for $1500...


I heard a saying that Land Rover has been turning men into mechanics since 1948.

 

Just as a FYI the LR3 did not come around till 2005 so you won't find any early 2000's those would be Discovery II.

I think this is one of the best starter Land Rovers you will find for a full size SUV, smaller the LR2 is fantastic.

 

Geo do you mean to say that your LR3 is one with the V6?

 

Yes. Not unhappy with power or mileage, but in hindsight, should have waited for an HSE V8. Different issues, I guess...just strongly suggesting any buyer do any deferred maintenance.

 

Excellent that is just the sort of information that I am looking for! So from reading your comments, is it right for me to say that the V8 is a better bet then the V6?

If you don't mind another question, overall what was your experience with regards to reliability?

Thanks for your time!

 

Thanks for that - for the "new" car, it would be between 1997-2009 year range, so it would still be an option.

 

That covers 3 totally different vehicle models, D1 to 98/99, D2 99 - 04 and D3 05 to 08.