Thread: Tips and tricks for purchasing a D3

Originally Posted by DiscoDB

The other frustration you will have is the limited choice here in WA. I have seen a low km 2009 D3 with under 80,000 kms sell in NSW and reappear a few weeks later in a car yard here in Perth for $8k more than was originally being advertised for in NSW.

So don't rule out looking over East for something that does have the right maintenance history or better still which is not yet due for any of this work so you can make sure it is done properly yourself. Even with $2k to truck it over you can be way ahead.

With patience you can get a D3 with around 100,000kms or less well within your target price range. You just need a lot of patience and be prepared to haggle, or walk and wait.

This is great advice, it can save you thousands, even with either transporting it back or the fun way, driving it back.

Here's a good excample

D3 with coils, in WA

http://www.carsales.com.au/private/d...-3499339/?Cr=4

D3 with air suspension in VIC, with similar Ks

http://www.aulro.com/afvb/showthread...99#post2415999

Look in the photos, the one in VIC has the terrain responce knob, the WA Disco doesn't

Baz.

Originally Posted by ozscott

How much notice does the box give of failure? Is it likely to fail suddenly just when you are on a long trip, or does it give plenty of notice?

Cheers

Pretty sure it gives you warning and starts slipping first, then goes into limp mode to limit further damage. The D3/D4/RRS forum has a sticky FAQ on the transmission. Most of thr info regarding failures should be in there.

Cheers

Dan

One other factor which may be an advantage - should you decide to go with diesel... the MY07-MY09 Disco3s motor is compatible with the Ford Territory - both are Euro IV. That makes for a cheaper replacement, &deity forbid!

My mate as a D3 V6 Ford Explorer petrol motor - very nice set up. Sweet motor and economy very good on the highway,

Cheers

Some info on the transmission from another forumites mechanic:

http://www.aulro.com/afvb/showthread.php't=224750

He advises to make sure it's serviced by 100000km

Cheers

Dan