Buying a Freelander - advice needed

I'm new to the site/forum, so firstly - hello!

I've been reading through a lot of the posts over the last few days as I'm in the market for a Freelander. My budget takes me up to a 2001, Y or 51 and I'm looking for a TD4 SW (GS or ES). Sounds like there's an awful lot of horror stories out there, but I figure that so long as I'm careful I could still get a decent one?!

So, questions for you! - I went to look at a 2001/Y the other day with 34000 on the clock, it's been standing on someones driveway for 3 months. The bodywork etc was in very good condition, but we had to jump it to get it started - fair enough if it's not even been turned over for a couple of months I spose.

While I was driving it there was also a bad thumping/scraping sound coming from the front of the car (I think). I thought it might have been something to do with the drivetrain as it sounded very much like something catching/rubbing whilst turning. It was originally very loud but eased off after a couple of miles, until it was only apparent under braking.

The other issue with it was the sluggishness, it was far slower than any other that I've test driven of the same age/mileage. I'm guessing this could be the mass air meter having problems.

The guy selling the vehicle booked it straight into the local dealership to get checked out, once it comes back he's going to let me know.

Does anyone have any other ideas as to what these problems might be? Given that it's been standing for 2-3 months, could it be something easily fixed, or a more serious problem?

I'm thinking that if these problems aren't terminal and won't be too expensive to fix (if it doesn't get done at the dealer), it might be worth making a low offer on the vehicle, fixing it up myself, and putting the money saved towards an ECU remap.

Anyone have any thoughts/ideas?

Thanks in advance,

Tony

As they say, 'There is always another car to look at' my advice would be to walk away, any slight issues you feel it has will only dwell on you, go look at another. If in doubt walk away.

Zippy

Don't, if there is the slighest hint of a problem, don't buy it. We have had our Freelander since new in 2001 and we wrote the original script for the horror stories, ours is a nightmare BUT we still love it.

The TD4 is the best of the pack but even then, if you look at some of the Freelander forums, they are now also starting to have problems in the engine area along with the usual problems that the V6's had.

Currently problems in common to TD4 and V6 seem to be power windows, fuel gauge, radio, sun roof (if fitted), coolant bottle, starter motor, auto gearbox and we also have engine mount, CD stacker plus alarm problems not to mention the V6 engine problems as well. (Inlet manifold, Cam sensor, HDC, untracable and un-explained use of water, etc)

When we finally sell the Freelander, it will be replaced by a Suzuki Vitara for Subaru Outback (we also own a Landcruiser)

Stevesub

I agree with both above, youre going to be spending good money..so dont risk.

If you have your car from new (as i have) the little noises and quirks can make it what it is, you learn about what your car is telling you (when your car makes a large bang its trying to tell you you've had an accident or the engine has gone walkies through the bonnet). The nosies come and go and change...as does the car over time...but all along you are aware of what is what.

Getting into a second hand car, you dont know any of this...you dont know its noises and its behaviour. So its far better to find one that in some way makes you more comfortable than the others you have seen.

On a personal note, i know the freelander has its faults, however after 2 years of mine from new..i have NEVER encountered any problems or faults, and indeed missed the first service (my father had the car for a few months and forgot!).....yet nothing has happened. Its been trustworth, quick, fun...and all id expect. Lets hope it stays that way...as does whatever one you decide to get.

TD4s all the way!

Thanks for the replies, I think I'll leave that particular beastie alone I've got quite a few to go look at over the w/e so hopefully one will turn out to be what I'm looking for.

It's very encouraging to hear that someone out there has actually enjoyed the whole experience! After all the negative stuff I've read it's refreshing to hear something positive - given the amount of Freelanders sold they can't all be dogs!

It's a shame you don't hear/read more of the nice stuff as I'm sure it makes people have some serious second thoughts when looking for their first Landy, I know I have and I've always wanted one despite the little 'characteristics' they display...

Thanks again

EVERY car has faults and bits that seem to go "bang".

Most of the time you only hear about that model from people when things go wrong.

For example, the CRV seems to have far less negative reviews and reports from drivers than the Freelander.....but then you have to bear in mind that the Freelander has outsold its rivals over the years by at least 10 times...if not more. So of course there is more about it out there.

Perspective is key.