Thread: Imminent first Disco 2 TDI auto purchase - what do I need to know??

Hi all,

New here.

I've found a 01/95 Disco 2 TDi auto with 214K on the clock. It’s standard and hasn’t been kitted with off-road accessories so that suggest it’s been more of an urban runabout than off-road tourer. Its within my $10K budget for a truck, govt charges and a service. I've had a pre-purchase inspection done with the following comments:

- repairs or replaced bonnet / driver & passenger front guards; bumper & grill (yep, suggests its rear-ended something, perhaps reasonably hard - is there any tell tale signs of 'too hard' ie. would chassis rail damage show up and where?)

- Antenna is broken (I imagine a reasonably cheap fix / replace?)

- Oil dampness at lower engine part (suggest a leak somewhere - is this typical or a worry? Also, where do these engines mainly leak from?)

- Vehicle overdue for a service (what am I up for in a full service at 215K - labour and usual parts?)

- Check engine mounts after servicing when vehicle idles smoother (yep, suggest broken mounts - could this be related to a shunt, or is it just age?)

- Engine idle affected by Air-conditioning - idles roughly (is this typical or unusual??)

- Minor oil dampness at rear axle/differential (same question - usual or not??)

- Steering wheel noisy (squeaky) on rotating (I’m guessing usual and a simple fix?)

- Dashboard is cracked and off mounting (I think its a reference to the centre consul, not the dash, and that its pretty usual?)

They weren’t able to check the transmission oil. Everything else was rated satisfactory for its age.

It’s going to be a second car for local running and the occasional 500km round trip – coast / snow / bush / camping. If all goes well and proves reliable, it might get kitted for some longer trips with a camper trailer in tow.

Any advice / comments will be appreciated.

Originally Posted by AJC

I've found a 01/95 Disco 2 TDi

Hi, Yep you found a D1. That pre-purchase inspection was worth it for sure, very comprehensive. Personally I'd keep looking for a better one, there are plenty to choose from.

Cheers