21st Dec 2024, 04:21
Owner/reviewer update: after mulling over replacing the LR3 with something newer that is better on gas, cheaper to maintain, etc., I decided to stick it out and keep it. As of writing this, prices on new and used cars are ludicrous.
I had the shift valves/solenoids replaced and I think that has finally resolved the rough shifting/slipping issue. Not cheap, but not as much as replacing the whole ZF transmission. After this got done, one oxygen sensor failed, I think it was the original, because it took considerable effort to remove.
It's got 121k miles on it now, which is still pretty low. I put on new wheels plus tires to freshen up the looks and got an alignment done. The UV damaged hood and roof isn't too pretty; there's a few options as far as repainting goes, but part of me likes the the natural progression of the patina. At least there's zero rust. Next update in another year or two.
21st Mar 2024, 00:51
Another update from the original reviewer: since WFH full-time, I have not been driving/commuting, so I've put maybe ~2000 miles on the LR3 since the last update above. There has been no recent repairs or substantial maintenance done, it's mostly used on short drives now. Everything still works and it still runs fine. Cosmetically it continues to decline, I have completely lost interest in keeping the exterior looking good due to less general life bandwidth. The interior has held up well with one toddler passenger so far; when the younger sibling starts riding shotgun in back it'll be interesting to see how things fare. If we keep it around long, long, long term, I might have my paint guy spray it with Raptor liner and drive it until the wheels fall off or if something else goes south. Speaking of...
The rough transmission shift in lower gears has not gone away after the ATF replacement. My next plan is to maybe have the solenoids looked at when it's next service is due... beyond that, I keep telling myself that a new transmission is cheaper than a new (used) car, but I've also got a wandering eye for other cars (with better fuel economy).