I’m considering buying a used LR4. My price range is under $10-12 k and I would like the mileage to be under 120k. What are the items I should look for? What are the known problem areas? Does the timing belt or chain have to be replaced at a certain mileage? Is there a particular model year to stay away from or a particular year that is better than others? I live in NY, as far as I can see from looking at used ones rust doesn’t seem to be a major problem, am I correct in assuming rust isn’t an issue?
Any helping points will be much appreciated.

thanks in advance,
Craig

 

There is so much written in the forums on these very questions, it would be tough to answer in a single post. I can tell you quickly, pre-2013 are V8 engines with 6-speed transmissions (2013 might have gotten 8-speed, not sure), whereas 2014 and onward are supercharged V6 engines with an 8-speed transmission. Most people like the V8 better, but the SCV6 is a solid engine in my opinion, slightly less power, but still plenty of power for the car. Just harder to work on with the SC in the way. If you want locking rear differential - get a car with the HD package. Up to 2013, I believe all the cars had high/low gearing. Post-2014, high/low was an option only available in the HD package.

Pre-2013, early failure of timing chains was common - well documented in the forums. In all the cars, coolant crossover pipes were a liability and need to be changed out - also well documented here. Lower control arms and air suspension components are something to look into. The list of potential problems goes on and on, but many problems are not so unique to these cars - still, you should do some research to know what you’re getting into.

Good luck, and happy to answer specific questions, but I have a later-model car, so not as familiar with the V8 models.

Cannot help you on rust .... I live in CA.

 

Here you go Craig:

https://landroverforums.com/forum/lr...ecklist-88560/