Hello - I have been diligently studying the lr3 in the 14k to 19k range with miles from 70 k to 115 k. Any advice as far as what to specifically look for when I go to test drive each vehicle this week, as far as mechanically? I've checked the car fax, etc... So the three I'm looking at all have good records, and seem clean, etc... - but I'm just trying to NOT pick one that might have some problems right away. Any helpful hints I would appreciate it. I've already narrowed it to three, so I've already selected features, etc... Just the mechanical or "feel" tips I should know and look into when I get there would be helpful. Big difference maker in 05 or 06 as far as reliability? Thank you

 

If you can afford a couple of hundred bucks to get an independent LR shop to look it over first that might be money well spent - otherwise the usual suspects are suspension compressor, front suspension bushes and wheel bearings and of course the electric park brake....there were a couple of recalls for those year Rovers, your local LR dealer should be able to tell you if they were done by giving them the VIN number.

Look at the tires for unusual wear patterns on the edges which might indicate suspension wear.

Probably best to go for as late a model year as you can. And try to make sure you have two keys or the seller commits to getting you two - these will cost you about $400 each to replace at the dealer. No eBay short cut here...

 

And start your ownership with a brand new battery - way too much electronics. Also look over this maintenance schedule - better that things are done well in advance. 10 year fluids and 150,000 mile intervals - hogwash. That just means people won't check them for 10 years...

Go by the "arduous conditions" schedule.

 

Thank you both for the insight - I will print this out. There's not many LR3's in the state of Idaho, so while I'm on a business trip in Seattle I have scheduled to look at 2-3 of them and might have to make a decision to purchase one from out of state - or keep waiting longer for one out here - and sharing the one vehicle with the wife...not so fun......

 

careful, last guy that owned one that lived out there had a six hundred mile drive each tim something went wrong. If you can't find anyone that is remotely qualified within an hour that can read and diagnose your vehicle then be careful.

 

I have to agree on this.

 

Seems like there was a guy who was given an LR3 by a relative, had it serviced, drove from the west coast, ended up in Montanna with no fluid in the differential and no body nearby. Drain plug fell out. Certainly if you are some distance from support, purchasing a more expensive dosgnostic tester would be a thought. And having another vehicle that can pull a rented equipment trailer to haul the 5300 pound plus Rover to the shop when needed. $100 a day trailer rental beats a wrecker. Of course, may rural property owners have that kind of stuff parked out on the farm or ranch.

 

Thank you all again - I am near a landrover dealership and service people - I just couldn't wait long enough for specifically a 2005 LR3 black or silver that was in good condition in my state, and I happened to be travelling to Seattle where there were more choices. I am purchasing it today, and I'm having it shipped to Idaho - thank you!

 

Awesome and Congratulations!!

 

Thank you!