Other than fuel economy and a crowded console, I've had no big complaints about my 2009 LR3 in 6 years. reliable vehicle. I've driven Landcruisers and owned a 1994 for five years. LRs are much more comfortable to drive with greater pride of ownership. My kids are huge fans of the LR. They are a great camping vehicle.
an honest video from an honest D3 owner. thank you... i own a 1989 defender 110 300tdi, been using it as my every day truck for 4 years now. super reliable beast. i've been eyeing on a D3 as it's one of my fav so far. will do more research on D3 and D4.. once that's settled, i should know which one to go for. no worry, i will not trade my defender for anything hehe.. cheers from Malaysia!
Have owned my 2006 LR3 since 2009. Daily driver, off road, take it everywhere. Has never let me down. Expensive to maintain but dead reliable. 175,000 miles. Love it. Thanks for the videos.
I've owned my D3 V8 for almost 5 year's now and it's been fantastically reliable, probably 'cos there's no turbo's, glowplugs or diesel injectors to go wrong 😂
I have V6 petrol 4.0. it has been a great car with a few regular issues that are well understood now, I look at replacing it but newer ones are over the top on specs, .. I'll keep this until it dies.. I think
2005 LR3 TDV6 with 189000 miles and zero issues. Not my daily driver - I am in rural North Essex so it's a green laner and weekend dog conveyence but smooth as silk - very modern looking still - have the LR4 facelift kit with latest front grill, front rear lights, side steps rear spoiler - very cool still.
Hello from South Florida, USA! I still have my 2005 LR3 which is going strong at 215K miles because of continued maintenance and part replacements. Great vehicle! This is my opinion.. even though I did encounter most of the issues you mentioned. Looking at getting a used LR4 now. Specifically, a V8 with much less mileage though. By the way, I will still keep my 2005 LR3. With the exception of the suspension light kicking in from time to time, there is absolutely nothing wrong with it. I did buy a brand new air suspension compressor though. I will install it at some point in the not-so-distant future.
Hi Jay, thanks for your explanation, I mostly agree. I have been driving one Disco 2 and two Disco 3`s since 2003. In this period I drove approximately 750.000 KM`s with the Disco`s in total and it is indeed one of the most comfortable cars on the road and the best family car I know! The only time in 20 years one of the cars left me standing during a trip (at night) was when the crankshaft broke with about 470.000 KM (of which I drove about 370.000) Landrover told me there was not guarantee anymore and so I bought my next one. To my opinion it is essential to have the car serviced at Landrover or a Landrover specialist. This avoids a lot of issues. I am now with my second Disco 3 on 467.000 KM and the goal is to pass the mark of 500.000 KM... Looking at the costs of Landrover servicing it is not cheap but calculated per Km the Discovery is to my calculation (done the math) definitely cheaper than the Volskwasgen Passat which I was driving previously. Just to finish my daughter of 22 years of age wants to have mine and told me last year "Dad when you drive it it is o.k. but when I drive it as it is just cool!" 😎
I own my doscovery three for 14 years now, and never had serious repairs. I’ve donne + 200.000 km’s now and i expect to do twive the “milage”. I’ve had 3 landcruisers a BJ40, a prado or 90, a HDJ80, all fine cars but less reliable than the disco 3. Yes i’m aware the landrover is much more luxerious and therefor probably liable to faults, but i have to cross my fingers to stay “lucky”. I think the discovery 3 is a fantastic car and great offroader. Off course things can break but that depends on the risks you take offroad. It needs regular maintenance by land rover or if you have the skills (like me) you can do it yourself. LR3 = highly recomendable!
@@jmoney1674 Nearly everything. I started with a shop manual for a discovery 3 and a icarsoft device to read and reset the fault codes. Standard things like: All filters, belts and liquids but also specific issues’ like air suspension, fuel burner heater, distribution belt, wheels , ty-rods, center bearing etc. Actually everything you can do on a jack and stands. Sometimes i have to ask the local garage to get it on the bridge, but that happened twice in the cars lifetime...... last but not least the internet is full of tutorials to help you get the job done.
My from new 8 years old Disco apart from consumables, had a stuck gear lever linkage, replaced ERG valve & I had to replace the tailgate actuator a couple of times. The diesel pre cooker also packed up, but I did not bother fixing it. Not to bad I thought!
Just watched this. I owned a 2004/54 Discovery 3 , S model with xenon headlights which as you said we're amazing. I absolutely loved my Disco, it was comfortable, quiet and could pull anything and take any load. I drove it down to South West France on many occasions, loaded up and it was a great car to do 600 miles in, in a day. But! My Disco tried it's hardest to bankrupt me, I owned it for five and a half years, and I replaced so many parts, various bushes, suspension compressor, propshaft, wheel bearings, discs, pads etc and I would only ever fit Pirelli Scorpion tyres as I just felt that they suited the car well. I miss the Disco in many ways, and then I don't!
I've owned a 2006 TDV6 Discovery 3 for about four years with over 250,000 km's (approx 155,342.798 miles) and it hasn't given me any trouble at all to date, none of the issues you mention. The two things I keep in the back of my mind is the air suspension and the handbrake. I love the vehicle and it's my daily driver.
I live in Essex, England, I love my lr3, haven't had much trouble, blanked off egr valves , running great, I change the oil every 4000 miles, owned car 5years, 128000 on clock, sweet!
I just updated the wiper and indicator stalks to Discovery 4 ones. The washer for the windscreen now works when you pull the lever and rear washer works with the button 😀
If you are so afraid of maintenance and running costs, buy a mountain bike. Great off road, pretty ok on road and the best of it: good for your health!
For last 40 years I've owned 17 cars, 4 of them - Discovery - 200tdi, Disco3, 300tdi and again Disco 3. Disco is my absolutely favorite for off road adventures. I use it mainly for aproach to paraglading take off places, mounteen bike. etc Ten years ago, after my first D3 I bought a litle japan offroad machine - absolutely loss of time, quality and money. I havn't any big reasons to be disapointed of my Discovery 3 (2008 HSE). This days I fitted to him new excellent tires - 255/55R19 GOODYEAR WRANGLER DURATRAC 111Q. Till now I've drived Pirelli Scorpion winter. I have onother one favorite car - my Opel Ampera - fantastic electric experience. I reccomend it to try too.
Thanks, great to hear your long experience with the Discovery. We have two other very diverse cars the family: Toyota IQ 2009 - amazing small car, loaded with features Audi RS7 2015 - mind blowing power (560ps / 700nm) and acceleration, but great cruiser
@@JayTeeCars Very well! May be it's will be interesting to drag on a qwarter mile your RS7 with an Ampera (only 151hsp and 430nm - but what start! ua-cam.com/video/qPwKzsCaL6M/v-deo.html ;)
I've got V8 with no doubt. Still, sunroof leaks, suspension drops, handbrake (that one that not hand but electric). Thinking about to tie all 4 air lines from all of the shocks under hood and put all valves and air compressor there (air reservoir on it's original place so +1 air line). Air filter also under hood, but no air silencer, it's not needed if your engine running. Should be more reliable with excellent access to valve blocks to maintenance. Cons is that active suspension will work less effetive because cross valves will be a bit far from shocks (hope it will not cause suspension warnings).
Love my Disco 3. Have the 2.7 HSE and it’s a great car. Only issues I’ve had since getting it are the front to rear and rear brake pipes that needed replacing. Also needed the tracking doing as outside tread of tyres was wearing down faster than rest of the tyre. Other than that it’s great. Previous owner did all the big jobs like EGR, Alternator, Etc...
Just bought a D3 with 84k miles - and she will be going to N Uist - Sand, Sea, Machair, beach, hills, gravel roads! Feels like a Tank. AT tyres and tow bar will be the first upgrades. I think she has been driven on school runs in Surrey - so (touch wood) another 100k miles in the Outer Hebrides!. Great videos. wj
I’m looking at the D3 and 4 as I have 4 soon to be 5 kids so need a 7 seater with loads of room! I have a 2019 4x4 Kodiaq which is a great car and is great in a muddy field, haven’t done anything to bad in it as it’s a company car!
I have also had Skoda Kodiaq 4x4 auto, it was on lease. I really liked it for a daily drive but never took it off road. The D3 or 4 is quite a bit bigger and heavier, very different vehicle. More space in the third row of seats in the Land Rover... fuel economy much better in the Skoda but it is more of a car than an off roader.
I'm in Africa. Bought a 2007 Disco 3 in 2010 from a good friend who had 2 for his company. By far the best ride comfort wise of all the vehicles I've owned. Probably my favourite vehicle, but it has costed me. Crank shaft bent and hand brake is stuffed. Replaced the entire engine due to crank but was lucky as it cost me about 2500USD for the engine which I took off a LR3 I picked up at an auction. I also currently own a 1997 80 series cruiser which I use when out in the bush. Never given me any problems but that online six engine costs me as much in fuel as my LR3 maintenance. Also the ride is bad so you are always tired when you reach your destination. Love all my cars though.
Hello Joe, i drive disco 3 with only 200 tsd km. The repair costs much less than German cars! Owners have to be clear to have the nearest oil pump, version 6. May be silicone hoses for cooling and if they invest in forge campshat, 1000 €, it runs millions of miles. Best car ever.
I run a farm in Sweden and a marine business, as you can imagine I do a lot of towing and have to carry a lot of stuff. I have a D4 on 360,000km and have just bought a D3 with 380,000km because I do my own maintenance and repairs sometimes I have to wait for parts or just don’t have time so I always have a backup Discovery, we have kids, dogs, play golf and they swallow everything. In my opinion they’re the best car for working men like myself, I’ve tried pickup’s in the past but can’t get on with them, I had 600kg of concrete in the back the other day no problem. Best winter car I’ve owned (important in Sweden), perfect for airport runs, still looks good in the city. It’s more than a car for me it’s a workhorse and maybe this sounds sad but they’re like a best friend, at the end of a long day or on a long drive I just relax in comfort. They’re the Swiss Army knife of vehicles and in my opinion, peak Land Rover.
Thanks great video, informative. I just bought an '06 LR3 V8 which is really clean. Love the plethora of buttons and dials, perfect mish mash of old school throwback with lots of early 00s tech.
Geat video again! Interestingly, the single most expensive repair I've ever have to had done to my cars, was about 7.500eur on complete engine, turbocharger and sensor swap, at reasonably low mileage for diesel. That only covered me a used high mileage engine too, since factory new one would had been about 11.000eur alone... And, that car was... A Hyundai. Generally considered fairly reliable. Since then I've had a BMW for 2.5 years now, and there's been CONSTANTLY SOMETHING small to medium broken in it, with BMW parts costing a premium I barely survive under 300eur when I visit a garage. All that money hasn't improved the ride quality in that BMW either. Used Toyota Land Cruisers in my country are insanely expensive, for the same model year and mileage I could buy almost two Discovery 3s for the same money one LC costs. And LCs suffer from rust problems, not to mention for the money their on-road ride quality is quite agricultural.
The windscreen washer is a real problem! I had a MOT test failed because he didn’t know how to work them. Was quite satisfying tho when I showed him them working 😝
Thanks, I have thought a few times about getting mine remapped, did you find it made a big difference? I have heard others say it was definitely worth it.
@@JayTeeCars Not a huge amount of difference but it does seem to be a little bit quicker off the lights and possibly more traction I’ve been told as significant improvement to torque apparently. I haven’t driven any significant miles but I am keeping a track of my fuel consumption.
Would make me very edgy with the crank shaft in these altering the torque . The 2.7 is noticeably under powered as it is without considering its 2.7 tons. Its a lot of stress on an engine . When it works it works I suppose
I have a 2008 disco 3 done 348k kms had it three years been totally reliable changed the belts when i first got then just regular oil changes been all over South Africa in it thinking of an evoque will i be disappointed?
I have the 4ltr V6. Ford transit engine basically. ok on juice, ok on power but way less issues and cheap to fix (in relation to the other engines). Would still go a V8 in a heartbeat though. Just for the sound alone.
I've owned my 2005 D3 HSE for around 15 months, and it is becoming a real PITA! I absolutely LOVE the drive and comfort of the car, but here are my main issues that need fixing; 1- Torque converter is knackered, I plan to get the gearbox and TC refurbished in a few weeks. It still drives really well, but the rev counter is riding at around 1500-2000 RPM. It's been like it since December 2020, and hasn't got any worse. 2- Electronic Parking Brake stopped working a few weeks ago. I didn't have the 'squealing' sound like other owners, but the amber light is on all the time in the cluster display. 3- A loud squeaking sound, like a flock of seagulls! It sounds like it's coming from the driver's side front wheel. The local garage told me the only visible thing they can see is a corroded dust plate. I have cleaned the plate and rusty 'lip' of the disc brake, and it is definately quieter...but it's still there. 4- Parking sensors only work when they feel like it! They seem to work fine when we have heavy rain, but when there's hot sunshine for a few days, they seem to go on holiday!!! 5- The Bloody car won't start when the temperature gets to 0*c. I have to remove the engine cover, pour boiling water on the grey plug, and then it starts! It's ok then for the rest of the day....until the following morning! This is probably the glow plugs and apparently they are a right bar steward to change. Oh I wish I still had my Jeep Grand Cherokee!
Hi Barry, sounds like you have been pretty unlucky, having found nearly all the common problems on one car. i also use to have a Jeep XJ, running on LPG, I wouldn't swap the D3 but it was a good a good car and they seem to becoming appreciated now.
I bought a 2006 lr3 HSC here in Atlanta Georgia about a year and a half ago and I absolutely love it. In my opinion it's the most intelligently designed SUV on the market, a timeless design. I don't think there's anything out there that's better even today with the exception of perhaps the new Ford Bronco coming out. I have the V8 gas engine, sunroof, and the third row seat. I'm still experimenting and trying to understand the different driving modes one of the videos I watched here on this channel this week was very helpful. Gives me some idea of what to look for, so thanks for doing that. 🙂 One upgrade I am interested in is getting electronic lockers for the front and rear and curious if anyone has any experience with aftermarket lockers?
Hi Bryan, I don't have experience with aftermarket lockers, but mine has the original Land Rover on the rear. I am pretty sure it makes a difference when in ruts, but would be interesting to make a direct comparison to another D3 without a locker but with the same tires (perhaps a video for the future).
I have a LR4 HSE LUX 5.0 with 274,000miles. Major expenses have been timing chains at 240k, air compressor at 100k, air suspension (full overhaul) at 170k and 3 water pumps (and associated lines and gaskets). Other than that, regular service. Goes through tires and brakes like crazy and its a pain in the ass to bleed the cooling system, so much so that I modified the lines to make it easier and stronger.
Loving the videos, great information. I would love to see a review of the tires in snow conditions. I love the look but I don't go mudding. Keep em coming.
Interesting idea, I will have to see in future how we can test different tires in controlled conditions (difficult to get a true comparison unless you have them on the same vehicle)
Hi, planning a road trip lasting one month leaving NI and ending in Norway, in this time we plan on travelling through, France, Belgium, Holland, Denmark, Sweden and then Norway of course. Ive always loved the idea of owning a Discovery 3 and We like the idea of bringing a roof tent ⛺. Was just wondering if you think the Discovery would be a good choice for such a trip and reliable enough to handle such a drive ? I am mainly looking at the Discovery due to space and cost. 2 adults 2 kids (at time of leaving will be 9&14) Cheers
Hi Matthew, Yes, I think a D3 would be ideal, you should get it serviced before and make sure all bearings, bushes etc. are good (do your homework). I friend of mine drove his D3 down from England to North Africa and in to the deserts, he stocked up with a few spares but didn't really need them. I must do an interview with Simon on his experience... The D3 or D4 is great when you need lots of space.
@@JayTeeCars Cheers really appreciate it. It's still in the early days of planning and of course Covid allowing. Yeah I have every intention of having it looked over well before travelling. No plans to do any off reading as such but need plenty of space as we plan to use it as a camping equivalent with the roof tent and inflatable beds.
@@JayTeeCars have you managed to get interview of your friend who did trip to N-Africa? I’m considering to buy D3 for over landing and desperately looking for people who have gone on long journeys with Disco’s 🙃
I took the air suspension out and replaced with spring struts best upgrade ever now the vehicle is perfect was a never ending expensive battle with the air suspension.
Suspension bushes and wheel bearings every 50k kilometers?? My 08 D3 has done 300,000 klm (180,000 miles) and has just had new rear wheel bearings (only 1 with slight play) and new front lower control arms bushes replaced. Brakes last at least 50k kl even with towing a van 2-3 times a year. I would rather have a LR 3 than a Jeep any day of the week. I do all servicing and any repairs myself so that I'm on top of any emerging problems. My LR has not let me down once. Maybe I'm lucky but if you keep on top of any issues you can nip them in the bud. Admittedly , weather conditions in Aus make it much easier to maintain a vehicle. The 2.7 engine is both economical and more than powerful enough for what I do. Mine's a keeper!
I have D3 here in Australia, SE model and V6 petrol, it has been a great car with a few of the issues you just mentioned. Check out the Llams height kit over the xlifter, a little better value for essentially same function..
You hit the nail right on the head, especially the hand break . I hate that thing , what poor design! Having an older Land Rover myself, I figured that I spent already too much money to get it all sorted out, and as the divorce lawyers say..., "it's cheaper to keep her". She still turns heads and i'm still in love! Cheers from Canada :)
Keep the D2 yes they rust but D3's rust too and they chew through suspension bushes and the compressers can give up the ghost. Given the choice the D2's win imo, last of the simplicity models in terms of being spanner friendly.
Really good video. Had my D3 for 16 years. Especially agreed with the comment about under specced brakes for the size of the car. Also the epb is a nightmare.
Fortunately, am having none of these problems on my 150,000km D4 diesel except front end every 50,000 km. Xlifter is a great bit of kit. Jay why do people need an IIDtool? Does it give you much more than a $20 Bluetooth reader with free app does?
Hi Ben, I don't have an IID Tool, but my understanding is it can do quite a bit more that the $20 bluetooth readers. Most of the cheap ones can only read engine codes, some can perform basic code clears. With IID you can set suspension and also other things like turning on off road display (if you have a lower model vehicle).
Thank you for this video. Is Lpg available in the UK? When yes a discovery 4 on Lpg is a option. I drive the disco 3 V8 on lpg in holland. Lpg is cheap. And the V8 is much reliable then the diesel. I'm curious what you think of Xlifter. I've had it on my Discovery 3 for about 1 month now. You have a lot more options than standard, and certainly better than elevation Johnson Rods. ATB Raymond
Yes, LPG is available in the UK, my Jeep XJ ran on it. Cost is about half of petrol, although I found it didn’t get quite as many miles per gallon. I am looking forward to getting my hands on the XLifter and hopefully creating a video next weekend.
@@JayTeeCars This is correct. On Lpg the V8 use a little bit more. But cost only 40% what petrol in Holland. And the Lpg system are improved the last years.
I've had the same 300 Tdi for over twenty years now, but it has gone in for renovation work and will be gone 6 months, so I bought one of these D3's and I am seriously worried now, I have never had any problems with my old Disco, just hope it lasts me the 6 months.
Always wanted a LRD but read so much press about how horrifically unreliable and costly to run they are - you have persuaded me that it is indeed a bad idea - many thanks 🙏🏻
Had my Disco 3 for 10 days and engine just cut out while I was out in the bushes. As we speak my LR3 - 2009 is on a flatbed to the mechanic of choice. The LR3 has a full service history, everything was done on the correct intervals. HOWEVER, It was suppose to go in today and tomorrow, for a proper service again so I can start the car at 0, and know for myself it's all checked and fixed. Oil change, gearbox flushing, check the injectors etc. Let's see, so far it seems it's just an injector or diesel pump. I did however went and looked at a Fortuner today. Not so comfortable, but reliable, especially for me that wants to travel Africa more.
I got a Freelander 2 but was thinking of getting a discovery 3 as there's a nice silver one for 5k in my local garage it's just the Freelander is a little small but I hear a lot of people saying don't touch the ld3 because if all the problems
I am on the verge of buying a strong 4x4 that can tow heavy trailer up a hill. Was considering the D3, but after researching a bit might go for a 2004 grand cherokee, not complete trouble free either but seem a bit more reliable with the Mercedes diesel engine and transmission. They don't way to much and seem mire than half decent off road. But I really love the looks if the D3, choices choices
I agree with your comments regarding oddities. To add one more, I find it annoying that with headlight settings are on "auto", to know when the headlights are actually on or off. You have to simply guess, or leave the headlight switch in the "on" position. Otherwise, I'm quite happy with my 2005 D3 HSC which I bought with 117 K miles in 2016, and now it has well over 170 K miles, it costs me approximately 2-3K annually in service, repair, plus soon a hefty ULEZ surcharge, but this is still better value than the depreciation of a much newer D4. I would buy this car again. I'm hoping to drive it at least another 70,000 miles and do some over landing trips with it.
There is a way of checking the lights are on which we have featured in this video: ua-cam.com/video/PFZsqOqjIfI/v-deo.html I have timestamped it for you to go straight to it. Hope this helps! :)
I owned a D3 for 3yrs and it was a money pit. Great while it was working but everything that went wrong with it seemed to cost a fortune. Handbrake failure x2 , one hub replaced, calliper issues, suspension issues, bushes, radio switches falling off etc and I’ve never had a car go through as many bulbs in my life. Sold it with 57k on the clock.
@@JayTeeCars I never used it for off road (planned to but was scared incase something broke 😂) . I really got it for towing a caravan and it was great for that. If I remember rightly the actuator on the handbrake was plastic and the teeth broke off. I sold mine 9yrs ago and remember it was a common issue and read one story that someone's handbrake failed driving home from having it fixed at a main dealer. They never changed the part on the D4 even though it wasn't fit for purpose.
That is pretty bad luck if only used on the road, or perhaps whoever adjusted it 10 years back didn't do it correctly, which caused the plastic gears to break.
To be fair I bought mine as a hobby but it seems very reliable is just a base model sure there are a few little bits to do on it the engine is smooth probably match to the chassis who wants any more beef there are from the road due to handling I wouldn't be too hard on Land Rover most cars now I built to do around 120000 miles and then the the poo starts ask any BMW moana a module here I module there and then when you really look into it the French responsible for most of the problems because they design and manufacture a lot of parts used
I have a LR3 2006 with 159,000 miles and runs like new, of course normal maintenances like any other vehicles, but for the age, I doubt I will find a better SUV
As a Disco3 owner...I am considering (for the future) to replace it with Land Cruiser (5 door). Anyway....what is your reason to go for X-lifter if you own IIDTools diagnostic? It deals with suspension hight quite similar (ok...just "similar"). Is it convenience? Or?
Hi, I don’t actually have an IID Tool (another thing on my list), I liked the look of the simplicity of XLifter, as it is just permanently to use. I fitted it today, need to finish filming some of the functions, the get it posted here.
@@JayTeeCars thx so much for your answer. I found IIDTool more functional for money. Anyway, for lifting, of course, x-lifter is great choice (one had friend of mine).
Great vid and info. Well, for years I've dreamed of the Disco 3 or 4 and its very possible I am going to just go for a second hand sometime this year. Obviously I want something reliable and if something does break to just get it fixed but don/ t want to spend my days in a garage. I currently drive a Lexus RX450h which so far at 250000 km is fairly reliable - basically no issues apart from a battery replacement. But in any case, what car nowadays is cheap to repair or maintain? So, any pitfalls I should be wary of when going to view a Disco 3 or 4? I don't want to have to do any of the big jobs like cleaning the fuel jets or transmission oil replace etc...
Hello great :) I couldn’t Believe it when you mentioned the water leak as I seem to be the only one experiencing this. Even my LR specialist couldn’t find the fault. I don’t have sunroofs so it must be the roof rail or windscreen, would you have any more info on where to seal? Many thanks. Ter
Hi, if you don't have a sunroof, it is most likely either the screen seal or the bonding under the roof rails. Best is to get somebody to spray with a jet washer while you sit in and watch, first on screen edge then roof rail.
The problem with the old Defender, the Jeep Wrangler and the Land Cruiser (which is a Prado everywhere else in the world where they sell the proper Land Cruiser), is that they're still fitted with solid axles - at least in the rear, and that means appalling on-road ability. If you're really that much into off-roading, and don't use it much for on-road, then you might as well go for the Discovery II. The benefit of the Disco 4 over the Disco 3 is mostly the engine. That 3-litre twin-turbo V6 is far superior to the old 2.7-litre in the Disco 3, both in power and torque, but again, if you're only really using it for off-road, then the Disco 3 is adequate enough. Lastly, the Ford/Land Rover petrol V8 does suffer from timing chain wear issues, and it's more likely to occur in that engine than a broken crankshaft on the TDV6, from what I've heard.
@@JayTeeCars You're welcome. I need to make a clarification - it's the chain tensioners on the V8 that are the problem. If they've been replaced, they should be okay, as JLR fixed the issue at some point in production, and genuine replacement parts are more robust. I think 'Piston Broke' did a video about it, if I remember correctly.
Was glad to get rid of my TDV6 SE. It had the potential to be such a great vehicle. Unfortunately plagued by unreliability despite a brand new engine .
@@JayTeeCars I did love the way it drove and handled off-road. It became a danger to my family though with an undiagnosable limp mode issue. Replaced it with a Y62 Patrol and I’ve gone back to my old 1961 S1.
It was a general comment that the lower levels such as GS don't normally have xenon, as you note it is possible to have xenon on any of the models, either as an original option or a retro fit.
Hi Jay..Greetings from Costa Rica...I own a 2007 Disco 3 ..HSE but for some reason ..perhaps someone knows ...My discovery has no sunroof . and it also has no info screen the one for GPS and 4x4 info..it has all the other goodies..It has the 2.7 V6. ..Cheers
Buy a V8 D3, you then don't have to worry about the engine breaking :-) We have just bought our 2nd D3 V8, this one is modified includig the lift rods you mention which are a must when running 275/65x18 tyres. Just found your channel so subbed. I will be doing content on our D3 as well as my current modified D2
Hi great videos👍 but one very large GRIPE.. every time the temperature drops Below Zero it won't start and that bloody sensor needs warm water pouring over it, why on earth does this happen? Why is it there? What purpose does it serve? Questions questions questions 😄
Hi I’ve had two shoguns and now ready for changing again, my question is, is the discovery 4 a better option I tow a caravan and do go off road . I’ve never really had a problem with the shogun but do find them a bit noisy on the motorway and quite thirsty. I’d be interested what you think, many thanks...
The 'swollen nuts' issue (the stainless cap stretches and expands away from the steel core), is due to people using impact tools on the nuts. If you only use standard breaker bars/ ratchets, you won't have the issue. A tyre shop f**ked all my rear wheels nuts a few years back with their use of impact guns.....
No one ever mentions the electrical issues. I've had the discovery 2 and I have a 2007 LR3 (IM IN CANADA) and my LR3 I'd the 4.4 liter HSE and I love it. However my control arm bushings are shot, the dvd player, CD player, fuel gauge etc do not work nor does turn ac...but the thing I've had with both landrovers is electrical issues. In my LR3 it has all sorts of electronic gremlins, just put a new battery and alternator for the second time in a year and the battery light is still on and it has a paricidic batter drain that kills the battery in a day or two, so I have been keeping it on a charger over night or simply just disconnect the battery every night. Thoughts? I'm baffled
Good advices and things to consider as I am looking to buy a 4x4 and one of the options is the Discovery 3. the other option I have in mind is the Nissan Navara, what do you think about it? I have seen some videos from people in Australia using it for off-road. Regards!
Hi, I don't have much experience on the Navarra. My uneducated thought is the Nissan is a bit less capable in unmodified condition but with less things to go wrong.
I am thinking of buying a 2005 LR3 V8 with 190K kms or a 2008 LR3 V8 with 330k kms both almost the same price in Canada- which is a better option do you think?
I enjoyed your video ,I sadly gave my 110 CSW up after 21 years . I wanted to buy a D3-D4 The garage who looked after my 110 had stacks of broken Discos -Scrapped . So sad I had to buy a Volvo as its a minefield for D3s Troubles
My discovery 3 love it had it 9 years it’s bottom of the range gs manual gearbox only thing iv had to do is egr up grade intercooler hose and don’t let anyone service it do it all my self + plus oil and filter every 4 thousand miles or twice a year still drives like new did cam belt for £210 last March inc fan belt oil pump and all new pulley s 👍 I even do the tracking on my drive myself I hate other people working on my cars
Trust me, the Shogun will die of rust! I have a D4 and a Shogun (and an XC90). My Shogun (and XC90) is a toy car compared to the D4. There's just no comparison between the Disco and anything else.
I wouldn’t say off-roading adds much to service costs (unless you damage something), it will increase wear on brakes and bearings (especially in very sandy conditions, which causes abrasion).
Doesn't change much, the suspension bit fail regardless, city driving maybe worse than off road! I hears people at the dealer complaining about having to change brakes at 18k miles. Brakes and tires will be the majority of the coast if you are driving on road.
has anyone had starting problems in constantly cold/freezing temps ? had a winter in the French Alps and my D3 would not start until i learnt a useful solution
Could be your glow plugs (assuming you have a diesel), I have heard they can be difficult to replace as prone to snapping when removing. Somebody else said they use the FBH controller to pre-heat their engine to get around the problem.
@@JayTeeCarsnot sure exactly of the component that I tampered with, it could be the controller, but I popped of the plastic engine cover and foam and ran boiling water for about 6 seconds on a front facing sensor and hey presto Used this method all winter long and it worked everytime I was living at an altitude of 1400m with night time temps of -20+ My journey home was on a narrow single track 'road' 7km long with a climb of 850m+, and coupled with quality snow tyres never even spun up in a snowstorm and 50cm of snow. It served me well and was an awesome bit of kit. It was an 06 D3
Great video bout to get my disco 1 on the road have had a td5 disco loved it also had a series 1 and 3 they put plenty of grease under my nails but the love of landys runs deep and can definitely see myself getting a d3 or 4 in the future after that land rover lost the mojo on the discos in my mind
Had a D3, 56 plate from new. Loved it for the first 4 years and hated it thereafter. A total money pit, costing £660 each year in tax plus servicing, another £400 and then the obligatory £1,000 annual cost to fix something that shouldn’t have failed. So £2,000+ a year plus insurance and fuel. Madness. LR and RR have lost their cache and rarely driven by the country-set, driven mainly by townies from Manchester and Liverpool. Today’s Burberry. Ghastly.
If you didn’t have 17’s you could of upgraded the brakes to the v8 size. I’ve done that on both my D3’s. As like you say the brakes just aren’t man enough for the weight of the Vehicle. Good video though. Standard wheel nuts are annoying as f***
Thanks for the feedback on the video, yes I could upgrade to the larger brakes, but then would need to change to 18 inch wheels and tires. As I don't do a lot of road miles I tend to keep the mud tires fitted (I have a set of 19 wheels), so for me I think I stick with the poor brakes on the road.
@@JayTeeCars yeah makes sense as you’ve got a lot more choices in 17’s for muds. I’m on 18” modulars on my d3 with AT’s(also being on mods I don’t have to use the crap wheel nuts) I need to change to muds next time I think. My partner has the HSE 19’s on hers with COOPER ATT’s
Yea swollen nuts-an issue but cheap enough for new set. I do al, my own maintenance on 2007 gs 91.000 miles. It’s a work horse I drop the oil every 5000 miles no matter what,new cam belt at 70k only £75 but fitted myself. I would imagine a very expensive vehicle if you need a mechanic all the time but both me and the wife love ours. I pull a very big trailer and you don’t even know it’s there. You do need the tools but once you understand their foibles they are great.
I have owned my LR3 (what the are called here in the US) for too many years. I guess I love taking the beating from the Rover dealership where it is today for a wet passenger floor and and inner and outer tie rod ends. The drains for the sunroof are a common fault on the LR3; they clog and dry rot. The dealer is quoting nearly $1,400 to replace both of the A pillar drains which requires dropping the headliner - I will decline that $ervice for now. Chicago roads and weather is not kind to the LR3. This is our weekend warrior so it isn't a daily driver but the kids love the 3 sunroofs and the large windows. My other 3 vehicles are all German and maintenance that isn't covered by the warranty is less than half what Land Rover charges for the same repair/service. The only vehicle I have owned that was worse than this beast was my 2013 LR4. Two timing chains, two chain guides and 3 water pumps replaced in less than 50,000 miles. The second time was no longer under warranty so it came with a hefty $8,500 bill. Then 13K miles later a cylinder head fails, engine was toast at 61,000 miles. I have now read this is common on the 5.0L V8 LR4. I have done the math, it is a wiser and more cost effective decision to purchase a newer Discovery (pre-owner) CPO with extended warranty than an LR3 or LR4. When the warranty expires get rid of it.
You need to shop around on those prices . Also the sunroof drain is a $1.00 fix take a compressed air blow gun and just blow the drains out they just get slightly filled with debris and sediment no need to replace just blow them out
Fix it yourself, or find a cheap mechanic they tend to be in (poorer areas where a lot of people own old cars), it's an old car. The dealers take pains to put it back exactly the way it was with original parts. Lots of people have found work arounds. You can snake a new hose and use a quality rubberized caulk(OSI quad clear would work well) on the outlet totally eliminating the reed valve. I had a swimming pool in my passenger foot well and it was from clogged sunroof drains! I bought a new disco 5 and instead of driving it I was driving the 14 yr old 3 while it spent inordinate amounts of time in the shop. The LR3 was pinnacle of LR reliability, the 4.4 V8 is a very reliable engine, change the oil every 5k miles and your good. Other land rover engineering fails in the 3, include the rear door latch, again you could have bought a bunch of expensive parts or do what I did and cut the cable on the actuator and swagged in a newer stronger piece of cable, eventually it will go but it's been 5 years and the fix was 2 dollars vs. $300 in parts. For suspension work don't bother with the dealer, any competent mechanic can do it, the same is true for the brakes(be wary of the rear rotors and bad mechanics not adjusting the ebrake!). Mine was a daily driver until 2018, over a decade on a british car, things didn't really start to go south until 2017 when the car was 10 years old, up to that point the only thing outside of basic oil changes, brakes, air filters, etc was LCA's, tie rods, and wheel bearings at 70k miles("urban" mechanic charged me $700 labor I brought parts which was about the same, the aftermarket LCA's ultimately were not worth the savings 50k miles later they are toast). In 17 I needed to do the trans service, the dealer wanted over 2k, I went to an independent euro mechanic and bought the trans kit from roverparts, paid about $400 in labor to fit new steel trans pan. Brakes are the same if I take it to the euro mechanic he'll charge me about $325 for front and rear in labor, the "urban" mechanic charges $200-$250 seemingly depending on how he feels on a given day, you can get ferrodo pads on rockauto for like $60(for Front and Rear) and rotors you can get on amazon(prime shipping heavy items) raybestos brand has been equivalent to OE or upgrade to power stop for a bit more but it's anywhere between $175-250, the full brake job is less than $600, the dealer wants $1300 to do the same thing! I've never had brakes last more than 35k miles on this car, no matter what I've put on, the power stop kit with the carbon fibre brakes seemed to do the best. But at this point it is not a reliable car as a daily driver all things made of rubber rot out on this car and I swear LR has a source of extremely low grade plastics they seem to put in the most puzzling places. LR took the 5 back because of the issues I had with it, I'm thinking about a Toyta Landcruiser instead. Yeah the rust on these cars is unreal, I'm in the NYC area and the underside is totally covered in rust. For an off roader though they are good cars to buy, the prices are low and the key pieces hold up pretty decently, the electronics and epb being the x-factors, those things break and it gets expensive fast.
I don’t think I still have the link, it is three separate parts a large mag mount, angle section and long aerial (that I tuck in when not in use). I will see if I can hunt back in my purchases.
In regards to your alternative vehicle recommendations at the end of this video- If anyone is thinking about getting a Disco 2, go watch the crash test footage of them and come back here and tell me with a straight face you still want one 🤣🤣
ua-cam.com/video/n6h19yeKvbw/v-deo.html Watch this video, 70mph crash and rolling about like a football, every occupant emerged more or less unscathed.
@@colins5142 By today's standards, yeah the Disco 2 is going to be poor in a crash situation. But when it first came out, it was considered to be a safe car.
Good overview thanks! Had my 2007 D3 SE for 3 years now and love it - so far had 3 x rear brake callipers that have stuck on, water pump, alternator, water manifold, EGR vales x 3 (removed and mapped) - for common issues I'd add in the float valve in the coolant bottle becoming porous (had that) and also more importantly the glow plugs on the diesel - all 6 gone on mine and haven't got the nerve to change them incase they break in the block, I've fitted a BAS FBH controller instead that gives me pre-heat function now, just need to remember to turn it on! Daily driver that I also use for mild off-road - for anything serious I've got an old Jimny
I love these, think the design is timeless. Great video very useful in helping me make .y decision re purchasing an off-roader, eventually settled on a Pajero
Other than fuel economy and a crowded console, I've had no big complaints about my 2009 LR3 in 6 years. reliable vehicle. I've driven Landcruisers and owned a 1994 for five years. LRs are much more comfortable to drive with greater pride of ownership. My kids are huge fans of the LR. They are a great camping vehicle.
Hello! What tire size do you recommend!? I'm buying new tires next week but havent decide on what size yet (bfg ko2s)
Love the look of the Land Rover, it's just a shame Toyota don't build them, we'd be all much happier if they did!
an honest video from an honest D3 owner. thank you... i own a 1989 defender 110 300tdi, been using it as my every day truck for 4 years now. super reliable beast. i've been eyeing on a D3 as it's one of my fav so far. will do more research on D3 and D4.. once that's settled, i should know which one to go for. no worry, i will not trade my defender for anything hehe.. cheers from Malaysia!
Thanks for sharing
Have owned my 2006 LR3 since 2009. Daily driver, off road, take it everywhere. Has never let me down. Expensive to maintain but dead reliable. 175,000 miles. Love it. Thanks for the videos.
Great to hear your LR3 has been reliable.
I've owned my D3 V8 for almost 5 year's now and it's been fantastically reliable, probably 'cos there's no turbo's, glowplugs or diesel injectors to go wrong 😂
I have V6 petrol 4.0. it has been a great car with a few regular issues that are well understood now, I look at replacing it but newer ones are over the top on specs, .. I'll keep this until it dies.. I think
2005 LR3 TDV6 with 189000 miles and zero issues. Not my daily driver - I am in rural North Essex so it's a green laner and weekend dog conveyence but smooth as silk - very modern looking still - have the LR4 facelift kit with latest front grill, front rear lights, side steps rear spoiler - very cool still.
Hello from South Florida, USA! I still have my 2005 LR3 which is going strong at 215K miles because of continued maintenance and part replacements. Great vehicle! This is my opinion.. even though I did encounter most of the issues you mentioned. Looking at getting a used LR4 now. Specifically, a V8 with much less mileage though. By the way, I will still keep my 2005 LR3. With the exception of the suspension light kicking in from time to time, there is absolutely nothing wrong with it. I did buy a brand new air suspension compressor though. I will install it at some point in the not-so-distant future.
Very nice!
Hi Jay, thanks for your explanation, I mostly agree. I have been driving one Disco 2 and two Disco 3`s since 2003. In this period I drove approximately 750.000 KM`s with the Disco`s in total and it is indeed one of the most comfortable cars on the road and the best family car I know! The only time in 20 years one of the cars left me standing during a trip (at night) was when the crankshaft broke with about 470.000 KM (of which I drove about 370.000) Landrover told me there was not guarantee anymore and so I bought my next one. To my opinion it is essential to have the car serviced at Landrover or a Landrover specialist. This avoids a lot of issues. I am now with my second Disco 3 on 467.000 KM and the goal is to pass the mark of 500.000 KM... Looking at the costs of Landrover servicing it is not cheap but calculated per Km the Discovery is to my calculation (done the math) definitely cheaper than the Volskwasgen Passat which I was driving previously. Just to finish my daughter of 22 years of age wants to have mine and told me last year "Dad when you drive it it is o.k. but when I drive it as it is just cool!" 😎
I own my doscovery three for 14 years now, and never had serious repairs. I’ve donne + 200.000 km’s now and i expect to do twive the “milage”. I’ve had 3 landcruisers a BJ40, a prado or 90, a HDJ80, all fine cars but less reliable than the disco 3. Yes i’m aware the landrover is much more luxerious and therefor probably liable to faults, but i have to cross my fingers to stay “lucky”.
I think the discovery 3 is a fantastic car and great offroader. Off course things can break but that depends on the risks you take offroad.
It needs regular maintenance by land rover or if you have the skills (like me) you can do it yourself. LR3 = highly recomendable!
What kind of maintenance like oil changes? I own an lr3 trying to stay on top on maintenance
@@jmoney1674 Nearly everything. I started with a shop manual for a discovery 3 and a icarsoft device to read and reset the fault codes. Standard things like: All filters, belts and liquids but also specific issues’ like air suspension, fuel burner heater, distribution belt, wheels , ty-rods, center bearing etc. Actually everything you can do on a jack and stands. Sometimes i have to ask the local garage to get it on the bridge, but that happened twice in the cars lifetime...... last but not least the internet is full of tutorials to help you get the job done.
My from new 8 years old Disco apart from consumables, had a stuck gear lever linkage, replaced ERG valve & I had to replace the tailgate actuator a couple of times. The diesel pre cooker also packed up, but I did not bother fixing it. Not to bad I thought!
Just watched this. I owned a 2004/54 Discovery 3 , S model with xenon headlights which as you said we're amazing. I absolutely loved my Disco, it was comfortable, quiet and could pull anything and take any load. I drove it down to South West France on many occasions, loaded up and it was a great car to do 600 miles in, in a day. But! My Disco tried it's hardest to bankrupt me, I owned it for five and a half years, and I replaced so many parts, various bushes, suspension compressor, propshaft, wheel bearings, discs, pads etc and I would only ever fit Pirelli Scorpion tyres as I just felt that they suited the car well. I miss the Disco in many ways, and then I don't!
Most things you love are sadly expensive to maintain, thanks for the feedback.
Yes, I couldn’t agree more!
Hello from Ukrainian discovery owner. Discovery 3 V8 4.4 HSE 😊
I've owned a 2006 TDV6 Discovery 3 for about four years with over 250,000 km's (approx 155,342.798 miles) and it hasn't given me any trouble at all to date, none of the issues you mention. The two things I keep in the back of my mind is the air suspension and the handbrake. I love the vehicle and it's my daily driver.
Same here - air suspension and handbrake are the main issues with my car LR D3. Do you have the same issues?
I live in Essex, England, I love my lr3, haven't had much trouble, blanked off egr valves , running great, I change the oil every 4000 miles, owned car 5years, 128000 on clock, sweet!
I just updated the wiper and indicator stalks to Discovery 4 ones. The washer for the windscreen now works when you pull the lever and rear washer works with the button 😀
Thanks for info, I might have to look in to changing mine.
@@JayTeeCars No problem, they swapped straight over onto my 2007 HSE with no modifications needed. Great content, keep them coming 😊
If you are so afraid of maintenance and running costs, buy a mountain bike. Great off road, pretty ok on road and the best of it: good for your health!
And it will take you where no other vehicle can.
Joking aren't you? Maintaining a quality MTB probably costs the same as a LR3 😂😂
Yep could buy a trailer and put the wife and kids in it
For last 40 years I've owned 17 cars, 4 of them - Discovery - 200tdi, Disco3, 300tdi and again Disco 3. Disco is my absolutely favorite for off road adventures. I use it mainly for aproach to paraglading take off places, mounteen bike. etc Ten years ago, after my first D3 I bought a litle japan offroad machine - absolutely loss of time, quality and money.
I havn't any big reasons to be disapointed of my Discovery 3 (2008 HSE). This days I fitted to him new excellent tires - 255/55R19 GOODYEAR WRANGLER DURATRAC 111Q. Till now I've drived Pirelli Scorpion winter.
I have onother one favorite car - my Opel Ampera - fantastic electric experience. I reccomend it to try too.
Thanks, great to hear your long experience with the Discovery.
We have two other very diverse cars the family:
Toyota IQ 2009 - amazing small car, loaded with features
Audi RS7 2015 - mind blowing power (560ps / 700nm) and acceleration, but great cruiser
@@JayTeeCars Very well! May be it's will be interesting to drag on a qwarter mile your RS7 with an Ampera (only 151hsp and 430nm - but what start! ua-cam.com/video/qPwKzsCaL6M/v-deo.html ;)
I've got V8 with no doubt. Still, sunroof leaks, suspension drops, handbrake (that one that not hand but electric). Thinking about to tie all 4 air lines from all of the shocks under hood and put all valves and air compressor there (air reservoir on it's original place so +1 air line). Air filter also under hood, but no air silencer, it's not needed if your engine running. Should be more reliable with excellent access to valve blocks to maintenance. Cons is that active suspension will work less effetive because cross valves will be a bit far from shocks (hope it will not cause suspension warnings).
Love my Disco 3. Have the 2.7 HSE and it’s a great car. Only issues I’ve had since getting it are the front to rear and rear brake pipes that needed replacing. Also needed the tracking doing as outside tread of tyres was wearing down faster than rest of the tyre. Other than that it’s great. Previous owner did all the big jobs like EGR, Alternator, Etc...
great to hear a positive experience, there are a lot of good ones out there!
Just bought a D3 with 84k miles - and she will be going to N Uist - Sand, Sea, Machair, beach, hills, gravel roads! Feels like a Tank. AT tyres and tow bar will be the first upgrades. I think she has been driven on school runs in Surrey - so (touch wood) another 100k miles in the Outer Hebrides!. Great videos. wj
Nice one
I’m looking at the D3 and 4 as I have 4 soon to be 5 kids so need a 7 seater with loads of room! I have a 2019 4x4 Kodiaq which is a great car and is great in a muddy field, haven’t done anything to bad in it as it’s a company car!
I have also had Skoda Kodiaq 4x4 auto, it was on lease. I really liked it for a daily drive but never took it off road.
The D3 or 4 is quite a bit bigger and heavier, very different vehicle. More space in the third row of seats in the Land Rover... fuel economy much better in the Skoda but it is more of a car than an off roader.
I'm in Africa. Bought a 2007 Disco 3 in 2010 from a good friend who had 2 for his company. By far the best ride comfort wise of all the vehicles I've owned. Probably my favourite vehicle, but it has costed me. Crank shaft bent and hand brake is stuffed. Replaced the entire engine due to crank but was lucky as it cost me about 2500USD for the engine which I took off a LR3 I picked up at an auction. I also currently own a 1997 80 series cruiser which I use when out in the bush. Never given me any problems but that online six engine costs me as much in fuel as my LR3 maintenance. Also the ride is bad so you are always tired when you reach your destination. Love all my cars though.
Hello Joe, i drive disco 3 with only 200 tsd km. The repair costs much less than German cars! Owners have to be clear to have the nearest oil pump, version 6. May be silicone hoses for cooling and if they invest in forge campshat, 1000 €, it runs millions of miles. Best car ever.
Thanx for mentioning leakage. I recently found lot of water on my floor and to date havent figured out how it got into my vehicle.
Good luck with your search, I might record a video cleaning the sunroof pipes, as mine sometimes gets a trickle down the pillar.
@@JayTeeCars I look forward to the video. I looked everywhere I could but found all intact. I wasnt aware of the pipes that could be blocked.
I run a farm in Sweden and a marine business, as you can imagine I do a lot of towing and have to carry a lot of stuff. I have a D4 on 360,000km and have just bought a D3 with 380,000km because I do my own maintenance and repairs sometimes I have to wait for parts or just don’t have time so I always have a backup Discovery, we have kids, dogs, play golf and they swallow everything. In my opinion they’re the best car for working men like myself, I’ve tried pickup’s in the past but can’t get on with them, I had 600kg of concrete in the back the other day no problem. Best winter car I’ve owned (important in Sweden), perfect for airport runs, still looks good in the city. It’s more than a car for me it’s a workhorse and maybe this sounds sad but they’re like a best friend, at the end of a long day or on a long drive I just relax in comfort. They’re the Swiss Army knife of vehicles and in my opinion, peak Land Rover.
Thanks great video, informative. I just bought an '06 LR3 V8 which is really clean. Love the plethora of buttons and dials, perfect mish mash of old school throwback with lots of early 00s tech.
Good choice!
Geat video again!
Interestingly, the single most expensive repair I've ever have to had done to my cars, was about 7.500eur on complete engine, turbocharger and sensor swap, at reasonably low mileage for diesel. That only covered me a used high mileage engine too, since factory new one would had been about 11.000eur alone... And, that car was... A Hyundai. Generally considered fairly reliable. Since then I've had a BMW for 2.5 years now, and there's been CONSTANTLY SOMETHING small to medium broken in it, with BMW parts costing a premium I barely survive under 300eur when I visit a garage. All that money hasn't improved the ride quality in that BMW either.
Used Toyota Land Cruisers in my country are insanely expensive, for the same model year and mileage I could buy almost two Discovery 3s for the same money one LC costs. And LCs suffer from rust problems, not to mention for the money their on-road ride quality is quite agricultural.
Thanks, I had another look at the Toyota prices, they are more than I had remembered, so for now the Disco 3 is still best :)
The windscreen washer is a real problem! I had a MOT test failed because he didn’t know how to work them. Was quite satisfying tho when I showed him them working 😝
I bet the MOT teater was a bit red faced after you showed them.
You can fit D4 stalks to get rid of the problem. But I don’t mind the D3 way
Good info on the Disco. I’ve just remapped my 2.7L. Apparently I now have 50 more bhp and 80 Newton torque.
Thanks, I have thought a few times about getting mine remapped, did you find it made a big difference? I have heard others say it was definitely worth it.
@@JayTeeCars Not a huge amount of difference but it does seem to be a little bit quicker off the lights and possibly more traction I’ve been told as significant improvement to torque apparently. I haven’t driven any significant miles but I am keeping a track of my fuel consumption.
Thanks, interesting to hear how you get on in future.
I've had mine remapped aswell. Big difference! I wouldnt hesitate to get it done
Would make me very edgy with the crank shaft in these altering the torque . The 2.7 is noticeably under powered as it is without considering its 2.7 tons. Its a lot of stress on an engine . When it works it works I suppose
I have a 2008 disco 3 done 348k kms had it three years been totally reliable changed the belts when i first got then just regular oil changes been all over South Africa in it thinking of an evoque will i be disappointed?
I’ve owned a D3 for five years and agree with the points in this review , I just wish the components and build quality was as good as a Volvo.
which Volvo do you have, I have thought about the XC90 but more for a road car?
@@JayTeeCars I’ve owned several in the past but not at this moment in time, I would certainly consider the XC Volvos in the future.
That BLEEPING open door annoyance was on the Disco 1 as well!
Cant wait to fix my D1 & D3 !
I have the 4ltr V6. Ford transit engine basically. ok on juice, ok on power but way less issues and cheap to fix (in relation to the other engines). Would still go a V8 in a heartbeat though. Just for the sound alone.
I've owned my 2005 D3 HSE for around 15 months, and it is becoming a real PITA! I absolutely LOVE the drive and comfort of the car, but here are my main issues that need fixing;
1- Torque converter is knackered, I plan to get the gearbox and TC refurbished in a few weeks. It still drives really well, but the rev counter is riding at around 1500-2000 RPM. It's been like it since December 2020, and hasn't got any worse.
2- Electronic Parking Brake stopped working a few weeks ago. I didn't have the 'squealing' sound like other owners, but the amber light is on all the time in the cluster display.
3- A loud squeaking sound, like a flock of seagulls! It sounds like it's coming from the driver's side front wheel. The local garage told me the only visible thing they can see is a corroded dust plate. I have cleaned the plate and rusty 'lip' of the disc brake, and it is definately quieter...but it's still there.
4- Parking sensors only work when they feel like it! They seem to work fine when we have heavy rain, but when there's hot sunshine for a few days, they seem to go on holiday!!!
5- The Bloody car won't start when the temperature gets to 0*c. I have to remove the engine cover, pour boiling water on the grey plug, and then it starts! It's ok then for the rest of the day....until the following morning! This is probably the glow plugs and apparently they are a right bar steward to change.
Oh I wish I still had my Jeep Grand Cherokee!
Hi Barry, sounds like you have been pretty unlucky, having found nearly all the common problems on one car.
i also use to have a Jeep XJ, running on LPG, I wouldn't swap the D3 but it was a good a good car and they seem to becoming appreciated now.
I bought a 2006 lr3 HSC here in Atlanta Georgia about a year and a half ago and I absolutely love it. In my opinion it's the most intelligently designed SUV on the market, a timeless design. I don't think there's anything out there that's better even today with the exception of perhaps the new Ford Bronco coming out.
I have the V8 gas engine, sunroof, and the third row seat. I'm still experimenting and trying to understand the different driving modes one of the videos I watched here on this channel this week was very helpful. Gives me some idea of what to look for, so thanks for doing that. 🙂
One upgrade I am interested in is getting electronic lockers for the front and rear and curious if anyone has any experience with aftermarket lockers?
Hi Bryan, I don't have experience with aftermarket lockers, but mine has the original Land Rover on the rear. I am pretty sure it makes a difference when in ruts, but would be interesting to make a direct comparison to another D3 without a locker but with the same tires (perhaps a video for the future).
I have a LR4 HSE LUX 5.0 with 274,000miles. Major expenses have been timing chains at 240k, air compressor at 100k, air suspension (full overhaul) at 170k and 3 water pumps (and associated lines and gaskets). Other than that, regular service. Goes through tires and brakes like crazy and its a pain in the ass to bleed the cooling system, so much so that I modified the lines to make it easier and stronger.
Loving the videos, great information. I would love to see a review of the tires in snow conditions. I love the look but I don't go mudding. Keep em coming.
Interesting idea, I will have to see in future how we can test different tires in controlled conditions (difficult to get a true comparison unless you have them on the same vehicle)
Hi, planning a road trip lasting one month leaving NI and ending in Norway, in this time we plan on travelling through, France, Belgium, Holland, Denmark, Sweden and then Norway of course. Ive always loved the idea of owning a Discovery 3 and We like the idea of bringing a roof tent ⛺. Was just wondering if you think the Discovery would be a good choice for such a trip and reliable enough to handle such a drive ? I am mainly looking at the Discovery due to space and cost. 2 adults 2 kids (at time of leaving will be 9&14)
Cheers
Hi Matthew, Yes, I think a D3 would be ideal, you should get it serviced before and make sure all bearings, bushes etc. are good (do your homework). I friend of mine drove his D3 down from England to North Africa and in to the deserts, he stocked up with a few spares but didn't really need them. I must do an interview with Simon on his experience...
The D3 or D4 is great when you need lots of space.
@@JayTeeCars Cheers really appreciate it.
It's still in the early days of planning and of course Covid allowing. Yeah I have every intention of having it looked over well before travelling.
No plans to do any off reading as such but need plenty of space as we plan to use it as a camping equivalent with the roof tent and inflatable beds.
@@mattyy09ty hi Matthew, did you get on your trip ?
@@richiethewles not yet but we will.
@@JayTeeCars have you managed to get interview of your friend who did trip to N-Africa? I’m considering to buy D3 for over landing and desperately looking for people who have gone on long journeys with Disco’s 🙃
I took the air suspension out and replaced with spring struts best upgrade ever now the vehicle is perfect was a never ending expensive battle with the air suspension.
Will the Traction Control System still operate as it should? Been thinking the same thing...
@@davidwestcott3383 yes
@@swedesspeedshop2518 thx
@@swedesspeedshop2518 Atlantic British setup?
@@davidwestcott3383 yes
Suspension bushes and wheel bearings every 50k kilometers?? My 08 D3 has done 300,000 klm (180,000 miles) and has just had new rear wheel bearings (only 1 with slight play) and new front lower control arms bushes replaced.
Brakes last at least 50k kl even with towing a van 2-3 times a year. I would rather have a LR 3 than a Jeep any day of the week. I do all servicing and any repairs myself so that I'm on top of any emerging problems.
My LR has not let me down once. Maybe I'm lucky but if you keep on top of any issues you can nip them in the bud. Admittedly , weather conditions in Aus make it much easier to maintain a vehicle. The 2.7 engine is both economical and more than powerful enough for what I do. Mine's a keeper!
I have D3 here in Australia, SE model and V6 petrol, it has been a great car with a few of the issues you just mentioned. Check out the Llams height kit over the xlifter, a little better value for essentially same function..
My lr3 is hunting when I excelerate what may be the problem.
Thank you
Sean
You hit the nail right on the head, especially the hand break . I hate that thing , what poor design! Having an older Land Rover myself, I figured that I spent already too much money to get it all sorted out, and as the divorce lawyers say..., "it's cheaper to keep her". She still turns heads and i'm still in love! Cheers from Canada :)
Thanks, I wish I had the open space available in Canada, must be great to get off road there.
How do you find parts availability in Canada? I am considering looking for the lr3, love these videos.
Contemplated changing my disco 2 for a 3 many times but can't bring myself to doing it. Costs scare me 🙈
Same here mate. I'll keep my Disco 2 V8.
Keep the D2 yes they rust but D3's rust too and they chew through suspension bushes and the compressers can give up the ghost. Given the choice the D2's win imo, last of the simplicity models in terms of being spanner friendly.
Really good video. Had my D3 for 16 years. Especially agreed with the comment about under specced brakes for the size of the car. Also the epb is a nightmare.
Great video! Lots of detail and you know your vehicle well!
Thank you! 👍
What tire size do you recommend for 90% road 10% light trail off road/overlanding. I wanna get some all terrain ko2s or something
Fortunately, am having none of these problems on my 150,000km D4 diesel except front end every 50,000 km. Xlifter is a great bit of kit.
Jay why do people need an IIDtool? Does it give you much more than a $20 Bluetooth reader with free app does?
Hi Ben, I don't have an IID Tool, but my understanding is it can do quite a bit more that the $20 bluetooth readers. Most of the cheap ones can only read engine codes, some can perform basic code clears. With IID you can set suspension and also other things like turning on off road display (if you have a lower model vehicle).
Thank you for this video. Is Lpg available in the UK? When yes a discovery 4 on Lpg is a option. I drive the disco 3 V8 on lpg in holland. Lpg is cheap. And the V8 is much reliable then the diesel. I'm curious what you think of Xlifter. I've had it on my Discovery 3 for about 1 month now. You have a lot more options than standard, and certainly better than elevation Johnson Rods. ATB Raymond
Yes, LPG is available in the UK, my Jeep XJ ran on it. Cost is about half of petrol, although I found it didn’t get quite as many miles per gallon.
I am looking forward to getting my hands on the XLifter and hopefully creating a video next weekend.
@@JayTeeCars This is correct. On Lpg the V8 use a little bit more. But cost only 40% what petrol in Holland. And the Lpg system are improved the last years.
I've had the same 300 Tdi for over twenty years now, but it has gone in for renovation work and will be gone 6 months, so I bought one of these D3's and I am seriously worried now, I have never had any problems with my old Disco, just hope it lasts me the 6 months.
Hi Bev, I am sure it will be fine. Like mine lots of people are trouble free.
Had my D4 for a year now, still totally smitten.
Always wanted a LRD but read so much press about how horrifically unreliable and costly to run they are - you have persuaded me that it is indeed a bad idea - many thanks 🙏🏻
Haha... not really that bad 😀
Had my Disco 3 for 10 days and engine just cut out while I was out in the bushes.
As we speak my LR3 - 2009 is on a flatbed to the mechanic of choice.
The LR3 has a full service history, everything was done on the correct intervals.
HOWEVER,
It was suppose to go in today and tomorrow, for a proper service again so I can start the car at 0, and know for myself it's all checked and fixed. Oil change, gearbox flushing, check the injectors etc.
Let's see, so far it seems it's just an injector or diesel pump.
I did however went and looked at a Fortuner today. Not so comfortable, but reliable, especially for me that wants to travel Africa more.
I got a Freelander 2 but was thinking of getting a discovery 3 as there's a nice silver one for 5k in my local garage it's just the Freelander is a little small but I hear a lot of people saying don't touch the ld3 because if all the problems
if the D3 is looked after, it offers a lot more over a Freelander, but check carefully what you are buying
I am on the verge of buying a strong 4x4 that can tow heavy trailer up a hill.
Was considering the D3, but after researching a bit might go for a 2004 grand cherokee, not complete trouble free either but seem a bit more reliable with the Mercedes diesel engine and transmission. They don't way to much and seem mire than half decent off road. But I really love the looks if the D3, choices choices
I agree with your comments regarding oddities. To add one more, I find it annoying that with headlight settings are on "auto", to know when the headlights are actually on or off. You have to simply guess, or leave the headlight switch in the "on" position.
Otherwise, I'm quite happy with my 2005 D3 HSC which I bought with 117 K miles in 2016, and now it has well over 170 K miles, it costs me approximately 2-3K annually in service, repair, plus soon a hefty ULEZ surcharge, but this is still better value than the depreciation of a much newer D4. I would buy this car again. I'm hoping to drive it at least another 70,000 miles and do some over landing trips with it.
There is a way of checking the lights are on which we have featured in this video:
ua-cam.com/video/PFZsqOqjIfI/v-deo.html
I have timestamped it for you to go straight to it.
Hope this helps! :)
I owned a D3 for 3yrs and it was a money pit. Great while it was working but everything that went wrong with it seemed to cost a fortune. Handbrake failure x2 , one hub replaced, calliper issues, suspension issues, bushes, radio switches falling off etc and I’ve never had a car go through as many bulbs in my life. Sold it with 57k on the clock.
Two handbrake replacements is a lot, was it exposed to a lot of off road?
@@JayTeeCars I never used it for off road (planned to but was scared incase something broke 😂) . I really got it for towing a caravan and it was great for that. If I remember rightly the actuator on the handbrake was plastic and the teeth broke off. I sold mine 9yrs ago and remember it was a common issue and read one story that someone's handbrake failed driving home from having it fixed at a main dealer. They never changed the part on the D4 even though it wasn't fit for purpose.
That is pretty bad luck if only used on the road, or perhaps whoever adjusted it 10 years back didn't do it correctly, which caused the plastic gears to break.
To be fair I bought mine as a hobby but it seems very reliable is just a base model sure there are a few little bits to do on it the engine is smooth probably match to the chassis who wants any more beef there are from the road due to handling I wouldn't be too hard on Land Rover most cars now I built to do around 120000 miles and then the the poo starts ask any BMW moana a module here I module there and then when you really look into it the French responsible for most of the problems because they design and manufacture a lot of parts used
Very well said Vincent
Love the video pal, excellent information and can't wait to see the Xlifter video's
Thanks Robert, I am also looking forward to getting my hands on the XLifter (and hope we can get out after Covid to test it out)
I have a LR3 2006 with 159,000 miles and runs like new, of course normal maintenances like any other vehicles, but for the age, I doubt I will find a better
SUV
As a Disco3 owner...I am considering (for the future) to replace it with Land Cruiser (5 door). Anyway....what is your reason to go for X-lifter if you own IIDTools diagnostic? It deals with suspension hight quite similar (ok...just "similar"). Is it convenience? Or?
Hi, I don’t actually have an IID Tool (another thing on my list), I liked the look of the simplicity of XLifter, as it is just permanently to use. I fitted it today, need to finish filming some of the functions, the get it posted here.
@@JayTeeCars thx so much for your answer. I found IIDTool more functional for money. Anyway, for lifting, of course, x-lifter is great choice (one had friend of mine).
Great vid and info. Well, for years I've dreamed of the Disco 3 or 4 and its very possible I am going to just go for a second hand sometime this year. Obviously I want something reliable and if something does break to just get it fixed but don/ t want to spend my days in a garage. I currently drive a Lexus RX450h which so far at 250000 km is fairly reliable - basically no issues apart from a battery replacement. But in any case, what car nowadays is cheap to repair or maintain? So, any pitfalls I should be wary of when going to view a Disco 3 or 4? I don't want to have to do any of the big jobs like cleaning the fuel jets or transmission oil replace etc...
Hi, with a D3 or D4, you really need to keep budget of £1k to £2k for maintenance each year.
Hello great :) I couldn’t Believe it when you mentioned the water leak as I seem to be the only one experiencing this. Even my LR specialist couldn’t find the fault. I don’t have sunroofs so it must be the roof rail or windscreen, would you have any more info on where to seal? Many thanks. Ter
Hi, if you don't have a sunroof, it is most likely either the screen seal or the bonding under the roof rails.
Best is to get somebody to spray with a jet washer while you sit in and watch, first on screen edge then roof rail.
Dont understand why you wouldn't change for a D4? Vastly better performance, brakes, handling and reliability. Had a 2014 From new. Totally awesome 😁
It is probably the logical move in future, a couple friends recently made the switch.
What roofrack you have on your car, and, what rock sliders model you have? Where to buy it?
It is a genuine Land Rover expedition rack with the top half removed.
i bought it second hand.
The problem with the old Defender, the Jeep Wrangler and the Land Cruiser (which is a Prado everywhere else in the world where they sell the proper Land Cruiser), is that they're still fitted with solid axles - at least in the rear, and that means appalling on-road ability. If you're really that much into off-roading, and don't use it much for on-road, then you might as well go for the Discovery II. The benefit of the Disco 4 over the Disco 3 is mostly the engine. That 3-litre twin-turbo V6 is far superior to the old 2.7-litre in the Disco 3, both in power and torque, but again, if you're only really using it for off-road, then the Disco 3 is adequate enough. Lastly, the Ford/Land Rover petrol V8 does suffer from timing chain wear issues, and it's more likely to occur in that engine than a broken crankshaft on the TDV6, from what I've heard.
Thanks for the insights Simon
@@JayTeeCars You're welcome. I need to make a clarification - it's the chain tensioners on the V8 that are the problem. If they've been replaced, they should be okay, as JLR fixed the issue at some point in production, and genuine replacement parts are more robust. I think 'Piston Broke' did a video about it, if I remember correctly.
Was glad to get rid of my TDV6 SE. It had the potential to be such a great vehicle. Unfortunately plagued by unreliability despite a brand new engine .
sad to hear that
@@JayTeeCars I did love the way it drove and handled off-road. It became a danger to my family though with an undiagnosable limp mode issue. Replaced it with a Y62 Patrol and I’ve gone back to my old 1961 S1.
Hi Jay . I dont get it. ai have a 08 d3 with xenon and no sunroof? or did i misunderstand that part ?
It was a general comment that the lower levels such as GS don't normally have xenon, as you note it is possible to have xenon on any of the models, either as an original option or a retro fit.
You must have bad luck,I have a 2015 d4 commercial and has done 180,000 miles towing 3.5t every day all over the uk trouble free.Fantastic motor
Hi Jay..Greetings from Costa Rica...I own a 2007 Disco 3 ..HSE but for some reason ..perhaps someone knows ...My discovery has no sunroof . and it also has no info screen the one for GPS and 4x4 info..it has all the other goodies..It has the 2.7 V6. ..Cheers
That is very odd, have you tried checking your VIN to see what it says about your build www.vindecoderz.com/EN/Land%20Rover
Buy a V8 D3, you then don't have to worry about the engine breaking :-) We have just bought our 2nd D3 V8, this one is modified includig the lift rods you mention which are a must when running 275/65x18 tyres. Just found your channel so subbed. I will be doing content on our D3 as well as my current modified D2
I would love a V8, it would be great to make a comparison video
Hi great videos👍 but one very large GRIPE.. every time the temperature drops Below Zero it won't start and that bloody sensor needs warm water pouring over it, why on earth does this happen? Why is it there? What purpose does it serve? Questions questions questions 😄
which sensor is giving you the problem?
Hi I’ve had two shoguns and now ready for changing again, my question is, is the discovery 4 a better option I tow a caravan and do go off road . I’ve never really had a problem with the shogun but do find them a bit noisy on the motorway and quite thirsty. I’d be interested what you think, many thanks...
I would say yes, the D4 is a very good towing machine and more refined compared to a Shogun.
The 'swollen nuts' issue (the stainless cap stretches and expands away from the steel core), is due to people using impact tools on the nuts. If you only use standard breaker bars/ ratchets, you won't have the issue. A tyre shop f**ked all my rear wheels nuts a few years back with their use of impact guns.....
No one ever mentions the electrical issues.
I've had the discovery 2 and I have a 2007 LR3 (IM IN CANADA) and my LR3 I'd the 4.4 liter HSE and I love it.
However my control arm bushings are shot, the dvd player, CD player, fuel gauge etc do not work nor does turn ac...but the thing I've had with both landrovers is electrical issues. In my LR3 it has all sorts of electronic gremlins, just put a new battery and alternator for the second time in a year and the battery light is still on and it has a paricidic batter drain that kills the battery in a day or two, so I have been keeping it on a charger over night or simply just disconnect the battery every night.
Thoughts? I'm baffled
Im thinking of buying a disco 3 thats had a new engine should i be worried?
No, but it doesn't guarantee future crank reliability
Good advices and things to consider as I am looking to buy a 4x4 and one of the options is the Discovery 3. the other option I have in mind is the Nissan Navara, what do you think about it? I have seen some videos from people in Australia using it for off-road. Regards!
Hi, I don't have much experience on the Navarra. My uneducated thought is the Nissan is a bit less capable in unmodified condition but with less things to go wrong.
which toyota will you for
I am thinking of buying a 2005 LR3 V8 with 190K kms or a 2008 LR3 V8 with 330k kms both almost the same price in Canada- which is a better option do you think?
It really depends on how each of the cars have been looked after, but I would probably go with the older car at lower KM
I enjoyed your video ,I sadly gave my 110 CSW up after 21 years . I wanted to buy a D3-D4 The garage who looked after my 110 had stacks of broken Discos -Scrapped . So sad I had to buy a Volvo as its a minefield for D3s Troubles
Sorry to hear that
My discovery 3 love it had it 9 years it’s bottom of the range gs manual gearbox only thing iv had to do is egr up grade intercooler hose and don’t let anyone service it do it all my self + plus oil and filter every 4 thousand miles or twice a year still drives like new did cam belt for £210 last March inc fan belt oil pump and all new pulley s 👍 I even do the tracking on my drive myself I hate other people working on my cars
I am confused between Discovery 3 and Mitsubishi Shogun ? Any suggestion?
Trust me, the Shogun will die of rust! I have a D4 and a Shogun (and an XC90). My Shogun (and XC90) is a toy car compared to the D4. There's just no comparison between the Disco and anything else.
@@dipladonic Thank you.I will buy discovery 3 maybe disco 4 depends on my budget after your comment.
Swollen NUTS yeah not good 🤭
Brilliant video thanks
Glad you enjoyed, nuts are much better now :)
hello i m french i am searching this sort of monster to replace my old Pajero 2.5 TD, is that a good idea?
Definitely a step up from a Pajero
@@JayTeeCars ok thanks
done , i ve got a TDV6 SE Atlantic since few days and it s awesome!!
If one doesn't plan to take the LR3 off-road at all, does that mean tne maintenance cost (esp.related to the undercarriage) ia very much reduced ?
I wouldn’t say off-roading adds much to service costs (unless you damage something), it will increase wear on brakes and bearings (especially in very sandy conditions, which causes abrasion).
Doesn't change much, the suspension bit fail regardless, city driving maybe worse than off road! I hears people at the dealer complaining about having to change brakes at 18k miles. Brakes and tires will be the majority of the coast if you are driving on road.
has anyone had starting problems in constantly cold/freezing temps ?
had a winter in the French Alps and my D3 would not start until i learnt a useful solution
Could be your glow plugs (assuming you have a diesel), I have heard they can be difficult to replace as prone to snapping when removing. Somebody else said they use the FBH controller to pre-heat their engine to get around the problem.
@@JayTeeCarsnot sure exactly of the component that I tampered with, it could be the controller, but I popped of the plastic engine cover and foam and ran boiling water for about 6 seconds on a front facing sensor and hey presto
Used this method all winter long and it worked everytime
I was living at an altitude of 1400m with night time temps of -20+
My journey home was on a narrow single track 'road' 7km long with a climb of 850m+, and coupled with quality snow tyres never even spun up in a snowstorm and 50cm of snow.
It served me well and was an awesome bit of kit.
It was an 06 D3
The car is super. One only needs a PERFECT WORKSHOP!
Very informative! Thank you :)
Glad you enjoyed it!
Great video bout to get my disco 1 on the road have had a td5 disco loved it also had a series 1 and 3 they put plenty of grease under my nails but the love of landys runs deep and can definitely see myself getting a d3 or 4 in the future after that land rover lost the mojo on the discos in my mind
Had the nut covers on my kj jeep. Changed them to solid nuts. Much better than swollen nuts. Ha. great video. Thanks for sharing
Glad to hear your nuts are better :)
Very useful video , been tempted by a D4 myself but the Fl2's we have really are impressive and haven't gave us any issues in nearly 8 years .
Glad it was helpful!
Had a D3, 56 plate from new. Loved it for the first 4 years and hated it thereafter. A total money pit, costing £660 each year in tax plus servicing, another £400 and then the obligatory £1,000 annual cost to fix something that shouldn’t have failed. So £2,000+ a year plus insurance and fuel. Madness. LR and RR have lost their cache and rarely driven by the country-set, driven mainly by townies from Manchester and Liverpool. Today’s Burberry. Ghastly.
I love the Discovery 3 but reliability problems scares me.
Don’t be find one with great service history
If you didn’t have 17’s you could of upgraded the brakes to the v8 size. I’ve done that on both my D3’s. As like you say the brakes just aren’t man enough for the weight of the Vehicle. Good video though. Standard wheel nuts are annoying as f***
Thanks for the feedback on the video, yes I could upgrade to the larger brakes, but then would need to change to 18 inch wheels and tires. As I don't do a lot of road miles I tend to keep the mud tires fitted (I have a set of 19 wheels), so for me I think I stick with the poor brakes on the road.
@@JayTeeCars yeah makes sense as you’ve got a lot more choices in 17’s for muds. I’m on 18” modulars on my d3 with AT’s(also being on mods I don’t have to use the crap wheel nuts) I need to change to muds next time I think. My partner has the HSE 19’s on hers with COOPER ATT’s
Yea swollen nuts-an issue but cheap enough for new set. I do al, my own maintenance on 2007 gs 91.000 miles. It’s a work horse I drop the oil every 5000 miles no matter what,new cam belt at 70k only £75 but fitted myself. I would imagine a very expensive vehicle if you need a mechanic all the time but both me and the wife love ours. I pull a very big trailer and you don’t even know it’s there. You do need the tools but once you understand their foibles they are great.
I have owned my LR3 (what the are called here in the US) for too many years. I guess I love taking the beating from the Rover dealership where it is today for a wet passenger floor and and inner and outer tie rod ends. The drains for the sunroof are a common fault on the LR3; they clog and dry rot. The dealer is quoting nearly $1,400 to replace both of the A pillar drains which requires dropping the headliner - I will decline that $ervice for now. Chicago roads and weather is not kind to the LR3. This is our weekend warrior so it isn't a daily driver but the kids love the 3 sunroofs and the large windows. My other 3 vehicles are all German and maintenance that isn't covered by the warranty is less than half what Land Rover charges for the same repair/service. The only vehicle I have owned that was worse than this beast was my 2013 LR4. Two timing chains, two chain guides and 3 water pumps replaced in less than 50,000 miles. The second time was no longer under warranty so it came with a hefty $8,500 bill. Then 13K miles later a cylinder head fails, engine was toast at 61,000 miles. I have now read this is common on the 5.0L V8 LR4. I have done the math, it is a wiser and more cost effective decision to purchase a newer Discovery (pre-owner) CPO with extended warranty than an LR3 or LR4. When the warranty expires get rid of it.
You need to shop around on those prices . Also the sunroof drain is a $1.00 fix take a compressed air blow gun and just blow the drains out they just get slightly filled with debris and sediment no need to replace just blow them out
Fix it yourself, or find a cheap mechanic they tend to be in (poorer areas where a lot of people own old cars), it's an old car. The dealers take pains to put it back exactly the way it was with original parts. Lots of people have found work arounds. You can snake a new hose and use a quality rubberized caulk(OSI quad clear would work well) on the outlet totally eliminating the reed valve. I had a swimming pool in my passenger foot well and it was from clogged sunroof drains! I bought a new disco 5 and instead of driving it I was driving the 14 yr old 3 while it spent inordinate amounts of time in the shop. The LR3 was pinnacle of LR reliability, the 4.4 V8 is a very reliable engine, change the oil every 5k miles and your good. Other land rover engineering fails in the 3, include the rear door latch, again you could have bought a bunch of expensive parts or do what I did and cut the cable on the actuator and swagged in a newer stronger piece of cable, eventually it will go but it's been 5 years and the fix was 2 dollars vs. $300 in parts. For suspension work don't bother with the dealer, any competent mechanic can do it, the same is true for the brakes(be wary of the rear rotors and bad mechanics not adjusting the ebrake!). Mine was a daily driver until 2018, over a decade on a british car, things didn't really start to go south until 2017 when the car was 10 years old, up to that point the only thing outside of basic oil changes, brakes, air filters, etc was LCA's, tie rods, and wheel bearings at 70k miles("urban" mechanic charged me $700 labor I brought parts which was about the same, the aftermarket LCA's ultimately were not worth the savings 50k miles later they are toast). In 17 I needed to do the trans service, the dealer wanted over 2k, I went to an independent euro mechanic and bought the trans kit from roverparts, paid about $400 in labor to fit new steel trans pan. Brakes are the same if I take it to the euro mechanic he'll charge me about $325 for front and rear in labor, the "urban" mechanic charges $200-$250 seemingly depending on how he feels on a given day, you can get ferrodo pads on rockauto for like $60(for Front and Rear) and rotors you can get on amazon(prime shipping heavy items) raybestos brand has been equivalent to OE or upgrade to power stop for a bit more but it's anywhere between $175-250, the full brake job is less than $600, the dealer wants $1300 to do the same thing! I've never had brakes last more than 35k miles on this car, no matter what I've put on, the power stop kit with the carbon fibre brakes seemed to do the best. But at this point it is not a reliable car as a daily driver all things made of rubber rot out on this car and I swear LR has a source of extremely low grade plastics they seem to put in the most puzzling places. LR took the 5 back because of the issues I had with it, I'm thinking about a Toyta Landcruiser instead. Yeah the rust on these cars is unreal, I'm in the NYC area and the underside is totally covered in rust. For an off roader though they are good cars to buy, the prices are low and the key pieces hold up pretty decently, the electronics and epb being the x-factors, those things break and it gets expensive fast.
HI Jay, what antenna do you have for the CB? Do you have a link?
I don’t think I still have the link, it is three separate parts a large mag mount, angle section and long aerial (that I tuck in when not in use). I will see if I can hunt back in my purchases.
found the aerial www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Tornado-stinger-1-55m-CB-antenna-aerial-black-springer-ariel-/192832690781?_trksid=p2349624.m46890.l49292
@@JayTeeCars Thanks for the effort... Thats great
@@JayTeeCars do you have any videos showing the above?
I don’t but will keep in mind for future
In regards to your alternative vehicle recommendations at the end of this video- If anyone is thinking about getting a Disco 2, go watch the crash test footage of them and come back here and tell me with a straight face you still want one 🤣🤣
Thanks Colin, that is a good point
Same thing goes for the Jeep
ua-cam.com/video/n6h19yeKvbw/v-deo.html Watch this video, 70mph crash and rolling about like a football, every occupant emerged more or less unscathed.
@@mikeb53 I've got a feeling they were just extremely lucky.
Watch this- ua-cam.com/video/mxdzWDHOqAk/v-deo.html
@@colins5142 By today's standards, yeah the Disco 2 is going to be poor in a crash situation. But when it first came out, it was considered to be a safe car.
Wheelnuts are the least of the problems. a mate of mine has a Disco and spend a fortune on all repairs and no end to it. Moneypits.
Good overview thanks! Had my 2007 D3 SE for 3 years now and love it - so far had 3 x rear brake callipers that have stuck on, water pump, alternator, water manifold, EGR vales x 3 (removed and mapped) - for common issues I'd add in the float valve in the coolant bottle becoming porous (had that) and also more importantly the glow plugs on the diesel - all 6 gone on mine and haven't got the nerve to change them incase they break in the block, I've fitted a BAS FBH controller instead that gives me pre-heat function now, just need to remember to turn it on! Daily driver that I also use for mild off-road - for anything serious I've got an old Jimny
Thanks, Yep, I have also heard removal of glow plugs has high risk of them snapping off.
I love these, think the design is timeless. Great video very useful in helping me make .y decision re purchasing an off-roader, eventually settled on a Pajero
VW TOUAREG mk1 is at least as off road capable as a D2 and has all the creature comforts and road manners as a D3/4
Well considering you've based your channel around the car, I would think so
But perhaps that might change in future