I am interested in purchasing a used discovery between 1996-1999.(the older the better=more money for mods). I wanted to tap into you guys and girls knowledge before buying. Mainly if anyone knows which years are better/worse mechanically, or are they all about the same? Also most vehicles I have come across have a commonality of having major mechanical problems in a general mile range(lets say 120K). Is there a mileage range that you would consider high mileage prone to mechanical failure associated with the Disco 1996-1999. I am sure you guys get tired of answering these boring questions, but any insight you may have or past experiences you can share would be greatly appreciated. I hope to be here soon as a Land Rover owner helping out others make an informed decision. Thanks in advance again. BRIAN

 

for what tis worth, ive got 140k on my 94. ive had it for a month and nothing major has come up.

 

Hey Brian,

Welcome to the forum ! In my opinion, go with one of the last years in any vehicle run. This is usually when they have worked out all the bugs. By then the public is bored with it so they design something new and get new problems.

A common and $$ problems with NAS 94-03 Discos is sticking exhaust valves. There were several fixes tried. The only true fix was engineered by BMW. It involves replacing all the valve guides and the exhaust valves. When the valves stick it puts extreme pressure on the cam lobes and can cause early camshaft failure. Anything with over 100K is prone to $ repairs.

My 2 cents, If your looking to save money for upgrades. Stay away from 94-96 and look for A 97-99 that's been well maintained. Price difference shouldn't be much and you'll be getting many, many improvements.

Good luck and let us know what ya get !

 

Thanks Bene and Bait, I appreciate the advice. I have decided on a 99' unless I find a real gently used 98'. I will be back soon to tell you guys what I picked up.