I have a line on a low mileage(72K) 2005 LR3. This was a fleet vehicle, then sold to a private citizen in 2009. I plan to have it looked over by a local garage that specializes in European Autos(BMWs, Rovers etc).

Having said that: The exterior is in very good condition. Engine compartment is clean(not steam cleaned) with no apparent leaks.

Runs well. Brakes are quiet without vibration, transmission seems to shift smoothly.

Interior is disappointingly worn. 2 cracks on dash and the tan leather seats are dirty. Stains on carpet etc. The seller hadn't done much to clean the vehicle before I saw it.

Any help on cleaning up the interior or finding well fitting seat covers would be appreciated.

 

The seats have airbags in them, so keep that in mind when looking at covers. The best bet would probably be to have the leather re-dyed. It's a pretty common practice on cars that are sold used. I don't think it's too expensive. I think I need to have it done to my LR3 too.... this is why I hate tan interiors.

 

Advice: spend a day driving it around. Listen intently for differentials groaning, bearings also. Idle it over some speedbumps or "snap" the brake pedal while idling along, and listen for any "thunk" sounds; those indicate worn control arm bushings. Put the air suspension through its paces and same with the park brake. I'd also check the sunroof drains to make sure water flows where it should.

There are lots of "how to" and "what to check" type threads on this board. Maybe spend some time reading. If the vehicle has any service records, that would be gravy. Check on when (if ever) the diff fluids were changed as well as the tranny fluid and T-Case fluid.

Good luck!

 

Thanks. The vehicle has been serviced at the Rover deal since 2009. The owner has all the records. Maybe that's a bonus.

 

Definitely a bonus. I'd go through those babies with a fine-toothed comb and make sure the right things have been done so that you aren't doing them later or worse yet, having to replace parts that weren't properly maintained.

 

A good detailer's should be able to bring the interior back to almost 'like new' and if the leather has not been repainted already, should be able to clean it with a good leather cleaner. Only if it is cracked or worn should it need refinished.

Test the air suspension, it should go up (engine running) rear first then front and should do it smoothly and reasonably quickly, in each height setting. The pump is a little noisy but should not run on too long once the set height is reached.

Mechanically; - check the auxiliary belts on the engine and listen for any unusual noises such as blowing exhaust gaskets.

Go for a drive and listen for any knocking from the suspension which might indicate that bushes need looking at or drop links from the roll bar need replaced. On cornering any knocking could indicate that CV joints are worn. Listen for rubbing/grinding noises from wheel bearings or front or rear diff bearings. While many of the problems you could find on this car are DIYable repairs (subject to your abilities/skill) the diffs aren't and @ £800 ($1200) for a non locking rear one, plus labour, not cheap.

When was the last oil change done. If you do buy it, I would still plan to change all the oils then you'll know were you're at with them.

Nice low milage car, so gearbox oil level just needs checked and plan for a full change in 20-25,000 miles (do not leave it for the LR recommended 150,000 miles).

Oh, and check the centre bearing support on the prop-shaft, the rubber diaphragm holding the bearing centred in the housing has a habit of tearing and the whole shaft needs replaced.

Don't let any of this put you off, it's a great car. I've had my '05 just over a year and put some £2.5k ($3.8k) into it on top of the £10,000 ($15,200) I paid for it and 'am just about to rebuild the rear diff and fit rear wheel bearings.

Taking it to someone to look at is a good idea. Good luck.