Defender ordered - lessons learned

[the_prof]

A big thank you to everyone for posting all the interesting articles over the years. I stuck around after having sold the 300tdi Defender 3 years ago after some mixed fortunes during its 3 year ownership. The intention was to save up, and purchase a new Puma with factory warranty at a later stage. In the meantime, creature comfort was found in an XC90 that was surprisingly versatile. But the time has come to “feel alive” again, and we just ordered a new Defender, much to the delight of the entire family. Here are a few lessons learned during the selection process that I thought I might pass on to other potential buyers (and also to owners).

I was surprised to learn from the dealer that a new Defender can be ordered with only two factory options in Australia: 1) colour, and 2) a 3rd row of seats. All other accessories listed in the Defender brochure are fitted locally by the dealer.

I came across this, because I wanted to fit the genuine LR radio with AUX-in jack at the front. The one listed in the brochure would have set me back around $800, but also left me with the brand new, factory, as it would have been replaced here, and not at the factory. I guess I am better off fitting a really good stereo for that money at a later stage, if I really wanted to.

So, I tried my luck with the intention of fitting the audio connectivity system offered by Land Rover. The cost of fitting this, I was told, would be about $900. I was also told that there are some problems with this unit, as it does not charge iphone 4s. And, to even bigger surprise, the system is actually an FM transmitter on 88.7, and the radio needs to be tuned to that frequency for it to work. I think I will stick to my current FM transmitter, that needs only a usb port to run and charge the ipod at the same time.

Since the Defender only has one cigarette lighter plug, I ordered one of the following gadgets to keep the ipod, GPS and my GenYers happily entertained during our trips: Car Charger with 4 USB Ports and 1 Cigarette Socket (http://www.usbfever.com/index_eproduct_view.php?products_id=249)

Now all I need to do is wait until September for HER to arrive.

Until then,
the_prof

[slug_burner]

Hope it all goes well for you, welcome back.

[P38ace]

You may like to have a look into one of these. The one I bought from JB came with Iphone/pod connector.

Alpine CDE-103BT CD Receiver Review | (http://aboutgadgets.net/2010/12/alpine-cde-103bt-cd-receiver-review/)

Solves your connectivity requirements plus handsfree in a straight swap. All for $350 !

[TwoUp]

Just spent many hours in a Patrol going West of Collinsville and well off road to investigate the burning of a 2007 Rodeo (ULP). The vehicle performed as well as the Puma or near to, it is laden and has $2200 of suspension upgrade as it could not take normal loads standard, so I gues the upgrade helped. Anyhow, the vehicle worked well but is rudimentary within it's self. You hop in and feel it is built at a cost.

The Rodeo that I swapped it with (no not the burnt one) wallowed but felt secure on the road as much as you do feel safe on the Micky Mouse at Louna park, but know it aint right. After reaching Bowen I was cramped. From Bowen to Townsville was crap driving. The car has speed but that's it.

Defender, drive it, it's all OK. You can just feel it!!

Regards,
PeterW

[wagoo]

Defender ordered, lesson learned? Whats that word that describes an oaf weilding a cutting torch?








Oh yes, an oxymoron.;)

Wagoo.

[Brucet]

You may like to have a look into one of these. The one I bought from JB came with Iphone/pod connector.

Alpine CDE-103BT CD Receiver Review | (http://aboutgadgets.net/2010/12/alpine-cde-103bt-cd-receiver-review/)

Solves your connectivity requirements plus handsfree in a straight swap. All for $350 !

I have fitted this radio and I am very pleased with it. BT and Ipod control are brilliant. I ran my ipod cable into the center consol and when we are travelling and the kids what their music they just plug into the front of the radio. My BT/cell phone connection is apparently crystal clear.

[Symo]

You may like to have a look into one of these. The one I bought from JB came with Iphone/pod connector.

Alpine CDE-103BT CD Receiver Review | (http://aboutgadgets.net/2010/12/alpine-cde-103bt-cd-receiver-review/)

Solves your connectivity requirements plus handsfree in a straight swap. All for $350 !

I too have one of these, brilliant is the only word i can describe. I use 3M double sided tape and attached a Iphone holder to the right side of the dash so it faces me when driving. I have the charging / dockong cable tucked intio the left side shelf. I pop the phone in, if needed plug the cable in and i drive along happily. When the phoine rings I see the display cleary and press the answer button on the radio.

We also have a portable DVd player and we plug that into the Aux terminals so we all hear it above the sweet "hum" of the motor as we travel along.

Fitting (inc phone mic) was about a hour - simple... and a LOT less than the factory one.

Cheers

[ciapek]

Just spent many hours in a Patrol going West of Collinsville and well off road to investigate the burning of a 2007 Rodeo (ULP). The vehicle performed as well as the Puma or near to, it is laden and has $2200 of suspension upgrade as it could not take normal loads standard, so I gues the upgrade helped. Anyhow, the vehicle worked well but is rudimentary within it's self. You hop in and feel it is built at a cost.

The Rodeo that I swapped it with (no not the burnt one) wallowed but felt secure on the road as much as you do feel safe on the Micky Mouse at Louna park, but know it aint right. After reaching Bowen I was cramped. From Bowen to Townsville was crap driving. The car has speed but that's it.

Defender, drive it, it's all OK. You can just feel it!!

Regards,
PeterW

You are kidding me mate.....
All vehicles are built to a "cost" platform, and as much as I love the Defender, I now own a Patrol.
The Defender is gone, for now, but to compare the Current Puma to a Patrol......well you are kidding yourself......for all the shortcomings of the Patrol, I, as a consumer, don't have to replace a significant number of vehicle components before the warranty runs out.

The damn radio is the least of your worries......

[Symo]

You are kidding me mate.....
All vehicles are built to a "cost" platform, and as much as I love the Defender, I now own a Patrol.
The Defender is gone, for now, but to compare the Current Puma to a Patrol......well you are kidding yourself......for all the shortcomings of the Patrol, I, as a consumer, don't have to replace a significant number of vehicle components before the warranty runs out.

The damn radio is the least of your worries......


Errrrr why the flame?

Been here ? Patrol 4x4 - Nissan Patrol Forum (http://www.patrol4x4.com/forum/) and look at the tales of disater there.

No matter what you buy - some one someplace will have problems and comment on some forurm, Were here to help each other - Not slag at someones fair questions and comments...

Cheers

[P38ace]

You can make life even easier with a Brodit Car Cradle Holder With Pass-Through Connector. Brodit 516164.

http://www.mountonus.com/

plus your choice of mounting clip. I went with this one;
Brodit Land Rover Defender 2007-2010 RHD ProClip Mount (Brodit 654077) (http://mountonus.com/Land-Rover-Defender/Brodit-ProClip-Mount-654077-23518.aspx)

Works well. Iphone just drops in, connects to the Alpine plus it also recharges.

[LowRanger]

You are kidding me mate.....
All vehicles are built to a "cost" platform, and as much as I love the Defender, I now own a Patrol.
The Defender is gone, for now, but to compare the Current Puma to a Patrol......well you are kidding yourself......for all the shortcomings of the Patrol, I, as a consumer, don't have to replace a significant number of vehicle components before the warranty runs out.

The damn radio is the least of your worries......

Don't forget.If you take the patrol off the bitumen,you need to check the rear spring mounts for cracks,before they break right off.But maybe that isn't a problem to some people;)

Wayne

[ciapek]

Don't forget.If you take the patrol off the bitumen,you need to check the rear spring mounts for cracks,before they break right off.But maybe that isn't a problem to some people;)

Wayne

Thx for the tip Wayne, I'll avoid going off road.

If only I had my Defender Back......The memories.....
Oh, and the repairs;

Cracked Roof Gutters
Water inside the vehicle (entire body disassembled and sealed up)
Cracked Rear Door Hinges
Rusty Bolts Staining the paintwork
Side Mirrors Falling Off
Seized Turbo
4 Clutch Master/Slave Combos
New Dual Mass Flywheel
Prematurely worn Clutch plates
Broken Uni Joints
2 rear Diffs
Electrical system from the dark ages
Seized Idler Pulley
Engine looms replaced from oil ingress into computer
Leaking fuel Pressure regulator replaced
Transfer case that jumps out of gear while climbing.
Oil leaks.....don't mention the oil leaks....lol.....

I could go on and on and on.

Dont get me wrong people, the intent is not to flame or upset people, I just can't stand the blind masochistic approach by some to even suggest that the Defender is a solid vehicle.
Its iconic, it has its share of fans, it is a unique and very capable machine.
But in the long run it will fail and cost you some serious money. Period.

The whole purpose of this post was my bewilderment that a member states "That he has learned his lessons" with regards to the notorious problems with the current Defender model, and his only apparent problem is the Audio System.:eek:

[the_prof]

Thx for the tip Wayne, I'll avoid going off road.

The whole purpose of this post was my bewilderment that a member states "That he has learned his lessons" with regards to the notorious problems with the current Defender model, and his only apparent problem is the Audio System.:eek:

I never said I had learned my lessons from the first ownership, I only stated the things I had learned when ordering a Puma Defender. If you are happy with your Patrol, all the power to you! I look forward to a Puma with 3 year full warranty.

the_prof

[the_prof]

You may like to have a look into one of these. The one I bought from JB came with Iphone/pod connector.

Alpine CDE-103BT CD Receiver Review | (http://aboutgadgets.net/2010/12/alpine-cde-103bt-cd-receiver-review/)

Solves your connectivity requirements plus handsfree in a straight swap. All for $350 !

Thanks for the suggestion, and all the follow-ups by everyone. I am in no rush as I have the FM transmitter for now. So when she arrives, I will see how things work and take it from there!

Cheers,
the_prof

[ericpicc]

:eek::eek::eek:"SEPTEMBER"!!!!!!!!!Don't you want it yesterday?:o

[LowRanger]

Thx for the tip Wayne, I'll avoid going off road.

If only I had my Defender Back......The memories.....
Oh, and the repairs;

Cracked Roof Gutters
Water inside the vehicle (entire body disassembled and sealed up)
Cracked Rear Door Hinges
Rusty Bolts Staining the paintwork
Side Mirrors Falling Off
Seized Turbo
4 Clutch Master/Slave Combos
New Dual Mass Flywheel
Prematurely worn Clutch plates
Broken Uni Joints
2 rear Diffs
Electrical system from the dark ages
Seized Idler Pulley
Engine looms replaced from oil ingress into computer
Leaking fuel Pressure regulator replaced
Transfer case that jumps out of gear while climbing.
Oil leaks.....don't mention the oil leaks....lol.....

I could go on and on and on.

Dont get me wrong people, the intent is not to flame or upset people, I just can't stand the blind masochistic approach by some to even suggest that the Defender is a solid vehicle.
Its iconic, it has its share of fans, it is a unique and very capable machine.
But in the long run it will fail and cost you some serious money. Period.

The whole purpose of this post was my bewilderment that a member states "That he has learned his lessons" with regards to the notorious problems with the current Defender model, and his only apparent problem is the Audio System.:eek:

I can safely say that I for one am not in any way upset by your comments,but believe that you might need to look a little harder and realise that there are many people that can draw up a list like that regarding Nissan Patrols and Toyotas,and probably longer lists at that.Their faults will be different,but faults none the less.
To say that a Defender will fail in the long run is a very broad statement.Anything left long enough will fail ,especially if neglected or abused.The number of older patrols getting around is dropping all the time,if they are so solid,why aren't they still on the road?Maybe need to ask a few more questions I think.Maybe compare apples to apples,age/km to age/km.Granted the Japanese vehicles are more car like and more comfortable ergonomically,but that doesn't make them more solid or reliable.And a lesson learned,is sometimes easy,when you have a product and go to another product,only to realise that the first product you had was so much better,even taking into account its idiosyncrasies .

Wayne

[the_prof]

:eek::eek::eek:"SEPTEMBER"!!!!!!!!!Don't you want it yesterday?:o

Apparenly none available in WA, other then white. I wanted silver, red or blue. And so the painful wait begins....

[Symo]

Errrr, how to put these words down the way i mean them to be understood... (i have poor word skills)

Good or bad, Nissan, Toyota or landrover... If you getting on a forum for ther breed you are putting your views over toi others in the forum who for the most are passionate and maybe one eyed - so sledging the breed, what ever it is will no doubt stir a reaction.

not suggesting you dont say what you feel but sometimes tact is neccessay. You dont get on your mates facebook page and tell them their new kid is a ugly bugger - even if you think it - well not in those words if you want to keep your mate.

This puma is my second defeneder... First had a gear box problem and that it in 120K, (fixed under warranty). This one we thought had a faulty ECU only to find out ( after it was fixed under warranty) that I had damaged a cable when I fitted the Mulgo box

So far so good - its only done 20K and I just LOVE the thing to death - have two very nice cars in the driveway with all the bells and whistles but i find myself grabbing the defender keys each day - especially now it has cruise!!!

cheers

[Garry]

I just find it amusing that even after people sell thier "woeful cars" they still find the time to trawl over the vehicle specific forums to pass judgement, no insult intended

Maybe the Landrover forums are better ;)

And for the recored I too am in the market for a new Defender

G

[ciapek]

I just find it amusing that even after people sell thier "woeful cars" they still find the time to trawl over the vehicle specific forums to pass judgement, no insult intended

Maybe the Landrover forums are better ;)

And for the recored I too am in the market for a new Defender

G

Not "trawling", just staying informed.
Not passing a Judgment, simply putting forth my very justified observation.
Yes, the Landrover Forums ARE so much better than the Patrol Forums.
Yes, still very interested in the Defenders, but regretfully, not the current interpretation.

Passion is still there, but for my needs, the Defender can not justify being the primary family vehicle. So a choice was made, not based on emotion, but a well thought out decision based on money and past experiences.

Would not be much of a world if we all had the same opinion, would it now....;)

[Symo]

Would not be much of a world if we all had the same opinion, would it now....;)


Pip Pip - never a truer word spoken.

I completely understand your reasons ciapek. If my defenedr was my ownly means of transport then sadly I would probably driving arround in a D-max now - and not with my usuial **** eating grin.

The Family LOVES the defneder for our weekends away camping and what ever, but the boss likes the comfort of her softroader for the daily drive and safety of the kiddies (airbags, stability control etc etc etc).

I am fortunate, my defender is my play car, ( im luck that my work lets me afford these things.) However even with a nice shiny air conditioned automatic car in the driveway, i seem to take the "weekender" to work each day.

again for what its worth - my 2C Now off the soap box...

[juddy]

I was surprised to learn from the dealer that a new Defender can be ordered with only two factory options in Australia: 1) colour, and 2) a 3rd row of seats. All other accessories listed in the Defender brochure are fitted locally by the dealer.


" I think not " Sunroof is factory option, as are the upgraded rims.

[Garry]

Not "trawling", just staying informed.
Not passing a Judgment, simply putting forth my very justified observation.
Yes, the Landrover Forums ARE so much better than the Patrol Forums.
Yes, still very interested in the Defenders, but regretfully, not the current interpretation.

Passion is still there, but for my needs, the Defender can not justify being the primary family vehicle. So a choice was made, not based on emotion, but a well thought out decision based on money and past experiences.

Would not be much of a world if we all had the same opinion, would it now....;)


Mate

We all have these stories and as much as I have tried to convince my twin brother of all people to buy a land rover he tells me stories like yours, we have another beer and I ask him what he has just had to replace on his Nissan patrol, or even better how much more gogo juice his one drinks compared to mine, we laugh and have another beer and although we look the same we are as different as our cars are and I respect him for that

I can't deny you may have had a bad one and you may dislike the new one But let's all play nice or we might get one of those warning posts from the admin

We should also have a beer, I will invite my brother and the two of you can tell me how bad my 3 land rovers are over another beer

[gitney]

Seeings as everyone's putting in their two cents i thought i might have a crack. I'm very new to the world of 4wd's. My defender is my first proper 4wd and this AULRO forum helped me a lot when deciding on which car to buy out of my three choices ST patrol, 70 cruiser and defender.
I have to say after sniffing atround a lot of forums this one is a cracker. The level of techinical advice and skill on this forum without too much bias is great. Sure everyone loves their cars but there's a good level of honesty and not too much toyota or nissan bagging which really gets in the way of trying to get a true understanding of the car.
I've got almost 20k on my puma now and have to say after owning and loving plenty of cars in the past there is something very special about this one. i thought it'd wear off after the first few months but so far i can't fidn enough excuses to get in the thing and take it for a spin.
I've gotta say too that this forum gave me a pretty honest opinion of the puma defender.. strangely i still purchased one and so far i consider it one of my better choices in life.

[Landycam]

September doesnt seem too bad - i ordered mine at the start of December & still waiting - 13 July & counting!

[tpayenberg]

September doesnt seem too bad - i ordered mine at the start of December & still waiting - 13 July & counting!

I hope the boat gets to Perth quicker! ;)

[Symo]

I've got almost 20k on my puma now and have to say after owning and loving plenty of cars in the past there is something very special about this one. i thought it'd wear off after the first few months but so far i can't fidn enough excuses to get in the thing and take it for a spin.

Oh. He is hooked. :D. Once these bloody noisy leaky rattly cold hot slow cars get under your skin your hooked for life. Then you take one off road with nothing more than decent tires and you are in awe.

I know exactly what your saying gitney.

(get yourself cruise control and then your really in love - nothing better after a hard weekend away to have cruise take you home. Hmmmmm)

[jakeslouw]

I've owned Nissan D21 Hardbodies, Jeep Grand Cherokees, and Land Rovers, among others.

My Defender still puts a huge smile on my face, and the best thing, it only cost US$7000!

[newhue]

Seeings as everyone's putting in their two cents i thought i might have a crack. I'm very new to the world of 4wd's. My defender is my first proper 4wd and this AULRO forum helped me a lot when deciding on which car to buy out of my three choices ST patrol, 70 cruiser and defender.
I have to say after sniffing atround a lot of forums this one is a cracker. The level of techinical advice and skill on this forum without too much bias is great. Sure everyone loves their cars but there's a good level of honesty and not too much toyota or nissan bagging which really gets in the way of trying to get a true understanding of the car.
I've got almost 20k on my puma now and have to say after owning and loving plenty of cars in the past there is something very special about this one. i thought it'd wear off after the first few months but so far i can't fidn enough excuses to get in the thing and take it for a spin.
I've gotta say too that this forum gave me a pretty honest opinion of the puma defender.. strangely i still purchased one and so far i consider it one of my better choices in life.

I couldn't agree more, very much the same story.