1998 Land Rover Discovery LSE / 50th Edition 4.0 gas

Summary:

Discovery 98, I am a new fan, gas? Well it's 8 cyl

Faults:

Since purchased, the 8th lifter was making a knocking noise. I had it diagnosed, and it was a quote of 1800 to replace all lifters, under the warning it would be more if anything else failed or needed replacement (which at an auto shop it always is). They also said it could keep running for a long time or just a few more miles. I risked it and keep on driving it. I figure if it lasts a year, it would be worth it.

After 5000 miles driven, the water pump gave out. I replaced it myself, so about 90 dollars invested, including belt replaced.

Then finally the head gasket gave out; I blame it on the additives that are supposed to help seal any leaks; before I added them, it was fine.

I found a street mechanic with Land Rover experience. Got the parts online, and he did the gaskets and the lifters for $600.00 plus parts ($400). So $1000.00 for all; not bad. I also did the trans service, since no shop will touch it with that many miles. Same mechanic, $130.00, filter included.

General Comments:

Recently passed emissions in WA, no problems.

I have the rebuild kit for the transmission, all ready for when it happens. I know it will be sooner than later, and being prepared makes it easier on the wallet. I also bought the alternator.

With time to shop online, you get great deals; rebuild deluxe kit (all you need included) $200.00, and an alternator refurbished for $75.00. Shop around and see the real prices; $700 plus for both.

I am happy with it. Always wanted one; it still looks good and I intend to make it look better; mud tires and rims are next. Regular maintenance at least. Better yet, do it slightly more often, and after mud use, clean it. They can't clean themselves. Read a lot about your car, and the more you know preventive stuff, the more it will serve you.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 3rd October, 2013

1998 Land Rover Discovery LSE

Summary:

Will take ALL your money to fix

Faults:

Leaks: can't tell where the oil is leaking from, it's everywhere. Can't really tell where anything is leaking from, even when clean. The front sun roof leaked for the longest; finally found that leak after having to take the whole top of the ceiling apart.

Overheating: Can't find the problem. Replaced the radiator twice, all hoses. I have to fill the reserve up every day, and I only drive 28 miles to and from work.

Gas guzzler: man does it eat up gas. Again, I only drive to and from work, and I have to fill up at least twice a week.

Repairs: I am a single mother, and had no idea that this thing would cost so much in repairs. It cost more to fix this than it's worth. I can't afford the maintenance on it.

I will never own a Land Rover once I can sell it and get something else. If I can even sell it.

I will buy a Honda.

General Comments:

Love the view, I can easily see out of it. Not much that I can say good about it.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 25th June, 2012

26th Jun 2012, 12:36

Oh my, it sounds like the head gaskets are probably bad on your car due to the overheating, even with the new radiator and hoses.

My advice is find an independent import mechanic (if you have not already done so) who has some Land Rovers parked out front. Mine keeps people going in their Land Rovers for a lot less than the dealers, or other shops that don't specialize in them, although even my friend cannot do it super-cheap.

These are expensive cars to keep, no matter how hard you try, so do try to sell it. There are people out there who will love to have it, and will be willing to spend the money on it.

Buy yourself a used Santa Fe or Highlander if you want comparable space, better gas mileage, and much more livable reliability. Even a brand-new Santa Fe would be cheaper than having to make unexpected monthly repairs or pay for the gas in the Land Rover, and I say that as a huge Land Rover fan!