Buying a 2nd hand Disco.

[Twents]

Hey guys,

Within the next year or so I'll be looking to buy a 08 onwards range rover or disco. I have a max of about $40k to spend.
Is there something I should be looking out for? I don't mind either v8 or diesel. I'd prefer diesel though.
For around that price bracket looks like you an get around the 2010 year disco. Then there's the 2.7 or 3.0 diesel versions.
I'd be aiming for around a max of 150,000kms.
For instance if the v8 engine is known to have less problems I don't mind the extra fuel cost etc.

I have seen some for sale with well over 300 thou on the clock, so I'm guessing that they are just like any car with problems.

Any help would be great
Cheers.

[VladTepes]

G'day :) Good to see you here.


We gotta help this guy out ladies and gents or he'll end up with a play-doh and nobody wants that....

[Twents]

Thanks for the reply mate, I know next to nothing other than reading other posts about problems. Hopefully someone can point me in the right direction with year model etc.
Cheers.

[sheerluck]

In that age range you're looking at, the diesels will be coming up to their expensive 7yr cambelt service. The V8 doesn't have that problem.

The diesel is the more problematic of the two, I've not heard of major failures with a V8, where there have been a number of members on here who have had catastrophic engine failures with a diesel.

However, in spite of that, my preference would be the diesel every time. :D

What you are looking for when buying one is history. The number of kms on it isn't that important as long as it has an immaculate history. Check that all the suspension functions work, along with the Terrain Response and electronic parking brake, don't be bamboozled by the seller if there are any errors or lights on the dash.

There is a FAQ to have a browse through here (http://www.aulro.com/afvb/d3-d4-rrs/93220-aulro-discovery-3-4-rrs-faq.html)

[Stuart02]

Welcome and good on you for seeing the light :) The Discos only stack up better and better second hand compared to the other marques.

If you've been reading the semi-recent threads on buying second hand you'll know there's just a few servicing differences between the engines but they each have their fans. Petrols are definitely cheaper and worth considering as they're a nice drive and nothing inherently wrong with them. The other petrol v. diesel considerations are generic.

You'll also know the D4 arrived around 2010 with a welcome interior update apart from anything else. Early ones had the choice of 2.7 or 3.0 and most ppl chose based on wheel choice - if you think you can live with 19s or afford compomotive 18s then it's the 3.0 diesel every time.

The rear e-diff was a significant non-upgradeable factory extra that some covet if they think they're going to do a lot of hard-core work (or tow a heap cos I think they're meant to be a bit stronger).

No substitute for newer with lower k's of course. Once you've worked out what your money can get you throw some more specific questions about what to look for and there's plenty of folks to offer their 2c worth.

Have fun shopping!

[guthrie]

What ever model you buy make sure you have a few $$ spare to do maintenance.

I bought a 2010 D4 (3 litre diesel) last year and have spent several thousands on:


new compressor for the air suspension
oil change on the auto transmission
front lower control arm bushes

Good luck.

[Disco-tastic]

Gday twents.

I had the same dilemma last year:

http://www.aulro.com/afvb/showthread.php't=220533

Price vs Age - D3 or D4?

I ended up paying just over $20k for a 2008 V6 SE with leather and rear air. The cheapest D3 diesel i could find was $27k and it was due for its major service (add a couple grand).

The petrols are smooth and sweet, though i average about 18L/100km around town. The V8's thirst is similar.

I have had $1000 worth of repairs (EPB jam and a wheel bearing), but the EPB issues could have been prevented if i was more aware. I also have to change the lower control arm bushes.

If you're not towing or touring I would take the petrols - lower purcahse price and lower maintenance costs, and less chance of a blown motor. If you are touring remote or towing frequently then the diesel is the pic.

for all models, check that the transmission has been serviced before 100k km or be aware you may need about $7k for a rebuild in the future.

The D4 is nicer inside, but the diesels are the same motor (unless you can get a 3.0L). I thought about it, but I'm glad i have a few extra coins to cover unexpected surprises - i would have been pretty stretched to get a D4.

Cheers

Dan

[Disco-tastic]

This just came up for sale on here:

http://www.aulro.com/afvb/showthread.php't=236572

- 2007 D3 HSE - Kiama, NSW

Cheers

Dan

[Twents]

Thanks for all the answers guys
The more I look at the D4's the more I like them, the 3.0L that is. In another year or so they will be even cheaper, probably the best time for me then.
I do still like the 06-08 supercharged v8's tho, might keep an eye on them.


We generally do a lot of traveling on our holidays due to family living in other states so a round trip is usually about 2500kms.


Ill definitely be sticking around here in the future.


Thanks all.