Buying Advice: 2003 Freelander

[grebbeci]

Hi,

I'm looking at buying a 2003 Freelander. It's the ES MY2002 model with the 2.5L v6 engine. It has 151k on the clock and is up for $7100.

Seems in really good nick, interior and exterior with a full service history, serviced every 10,000k.

I can find heaps that says to avoid the 1.8L 4 cylinder model but can't find a lot on the v6. Any suggestions?

[Ausfree]

I own a 2001 FL1 KV6 and if I had my time over I would not buy it again. Don't get me wrong its going OK, but they do have their foibles. They are more reliable than the 1.8L which does have a bad reputation for HGF and slipped cylinder liners brought about by thermal shock from a poorly placed thermostat. V6's also can suffer this problem but not as common. The big problem with a V6 is petrol consumption, I am getting 14litres per 100ks, which is up in V8 territory. They also demand Premium fuel as does any European car. Mate, if you can find a good diesel go for it, as they are supposed to be bullet proof.
Thats my 2c worth anyway.

[SuperMono]

I have a 2002 V6 and although it is now for sale (bought a D3 to tow the horse float) it has been as reliable as anything else I have owned (of similar vintage) and great to drive.
As long as the dodgy plastic pipes in the cooling system get replaced and the transmission has been flushed a couple of times it should all be good.
However, I would agree the V6 comes second to the Diesel version.