Disco 3 (LR3) Buyers guide inc video

@gstuart
Brilliant write up
I am currently looking at an early D3 with failed EPB (worst case repair being actuator is reflected in the price)
Swapping out the D2 as having welding done to get through the MOT on the grounds that it will not get through the next one.
Have you still got yours? Sometimes living in Dartford near you so may have to pop round

Very useful guide. Was thinking of an early manual but they were probably bought for heavy use and likely knackered. 3 years on, have any new issues emerged? I don't see mention of DPF issues that plague the Jag XFs, at least the 3.0 diesels, is this less of an issue with the 2.7? Is remapping the 2.7 recommended?

How have prices gone, is it still a case of paying 7-8K or is there a case for buying an older one for less and are there many good ones around?

D1V8i said:

Was thinking of an early manual but they were probably bought for heavy use and likely knackered. 3 years on, have any new issues emerged?

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Gearboxes are strong, clutches can last no time at all, depending on what it's been used for. I've seen clutches worn out in 25k miles, but others still fine at 75k.
If towing, then an automatic is the best choice.

D1V8i said:

I don't see mention of DPF issues that plague the Jag XFs, at least the 3.0 diesels, is this less of an issue with the 2.7?

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I'm not sure many 2.7 engines had DPFs, so it shouldn't be an issue.

D1V8i said:

Is remapping the 2.7 recommended?

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The crankshafts fail quite regularly, so that might not be a good thing to do.

D1V8i said:

How have prices gone, is it still a case of paying 7-8K or is there a case for buying an older one for less and are there many good ones around?

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Condition is everything, so check everything very carefully, then decide on price after a thorough inspection.

Really useful thread. Many Thanks. I'm a complete novice to landrovers. Looking to get a disco 3 for weekend occasional/use ( i.e. truck the massive dog and kids to places and for doing errands) - I've a question regarding the engine pump cover.. is this for all models or from a certain age. I'm currently looking at discos in the 54-56 plate for circa 5-6 grand. So looking at doing my due diligence. Sounds like it can be a bit of a minefield.

Jayce said:

I'm currently looking at discos in the 54-56 plate for circa 5-6 grand. So looking at doing my due diligence. Sounds like it can be a bit of a minefield

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You need to make sure the later pump has been fitted, when the timing belt was changed.

Nodge68 said:

You need to make sure the later pump has been fitted, when the timing belt was changed.

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Hi, @Nodge68 , Funny enough just went back and checked what I had written , ref

Make sure oil pump cover has been replaced to the new style, its a must , otherwise they can destroy the engine , particularly on 2007 onwards, it's been reported from other members that even MY2005 have failed, so always better to be on the safe safe and get them checked / replaced regardless of year

What do u think plse , if maybe I should re word it , thks mate

ie,

Make sure oil pump cover has been replaced to the new style, its a must , otherwise they can destroy the engine , most notably from 2007 onwards, however it's been reported from other members that even from MY2004 onwards have failed, so imperative before purchasing or one of the first things u do is to check that a new style oil pump cover has been fitted regardless of year

gstuart said:

What do u think plse , if maybe I should re word it , thks mate

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The wording seems fine to me Gary.
The most important thing is the information is given, and it was.

Nodge68 said:

The wording seems fine to me Gary.
The most important thing is the information is given, and it was.

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thanks mate , thought it was just me

indeed and fingers crossed new owners will take heed

gstuart said:

thanks mate , thought it was just me

indeed and fingers crossed new owners will take heed

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You're welcome Gary.


Unfortunately many new owners don't understand the complexities of these newer LRs (D3/4,RRS,FFRR and FL2), so don't even look on forums in advance of purchasing them, only searching for help, once a problem has arisen.

Nodge68 said:

You're welcome Gary.


Unfortunately many new owners don't understand the complexities of these newer LRs (D3/4,RRS,FFRR and FL2), so don't even look on forums in advance of purchasing them, only searching for help, once a problem has arisen.

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appreciated mate , thank u

indeed, must admit before I bought my D3 I looked into as much as I could, seems daft not to considering there’s so much great info on various forums regardless of what make model u buy, there always seems to be some information in what to look for

plus I’ve always checked the cost of ins, fuel, tyres, general service parts etc

gstuart said:

appreciated mate , thank u

indeed, must admit before I bought my D3 I looked into as much as I could, seems daft not to considering there’s so much great info on various forums regardless of what make model u buy, there always seems to be some information in what to look for

plus I’ve always checked the cost of ins, fuel, tyres, general service parts etc

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That's just being sensible Gary, as these vehicles can bite financially, so it's best to be prepared.

I loved my D3, but once I didn't need the 7 seats, I went to a small, less expensive LR.

Nodge68 said:

That's just being sensible Gary, as these vehicles can bite financially, so it's best to be prepared.

I loved my D3, but once I didn't need the 7 seats, I went to a small, less expensive LR.

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my pops taught me that right from my first car, to see what the running costs would be , ur so right, buy a bad one and can turn into a serious money pit

did also consider a FL2 but this D3 came up and to be honest got it mainly for days out with the grandkids/ dogs etc

if I had the money would have a new defender but can’t see that happening anytime soon, lol

still amazed with the ride quality of the D3 , however I keep getting the urge to buy a 4.4 petrol V8 Range Rover but really happy at the moment having the disco