From Discovery 1 through to Discovery 5, these 4x4s blend refinement with true go-anywhere utility. However, beneath modern features, reliability issues persist. Buyers should look out for hidden rust, worn suspension, and specialty engine problems. In particular, crankshaft failure in certain TDV6 and SDV6 V6 diesel engines has struck fear into used buyers, often resulting in catastrophic and expensive repairs. This guide drills into inspection points and known faults across generations for a confident purchase.4x4community+3
Inspection Walkthrough
1. Documentation & Provenance
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Confirm full service history, especially regular oil changes and timing chain inspections.
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Check for main engine work, such as crank replacement or major repairs under warranty—effectively a must for models at risk of crank failure.
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Factory recalls or technical bulletins may cover faults.
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VIN and engine number should match registration documents.
| Good Sign | Red Flag |
|---|---|
| Documented crank replacement | No mention of engine history |
| Service by marque specialist | Missed oil change intervals |
| Factory recall work completed | Patchy or absent records |
2. Exterior & Bodywork
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Discovery’s steel body panels are prone to hidden rust: boot floors, inner wings, sills, rear door pillars, and rear crossmember are hotspots. Lift carpets in boot and check footwells for corrosion.
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Aluminum panels can “spot” with white corrosion visible; not structural but unsightly.
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Door hinges and frames are also rust-prone, sometimes hidden behind plastic trims.
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Examine under chassis for rust and poor repairs.landrovermonthly+2
| Area | What to Look For | Cost Implication |
|---|---|---|
| Boot floor | Lift carpet, feel for soft spots | Replacement welding, moderate |
| Sills & wheel arches | Inspect both sides thoroughly | Replacement sills, inexpensive |
| Rear door pillar | Check for paint bubbling & rust | Difficult panel replacement |
| Chassis rear crossmember | Rust behind rear wheels | Intensive labor, moderate cost |
3. Engine & Drivetrain
Major Highlight: Crankshaft Failure
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Discovery 3 & 4 (2.7L and 3.0L TDV6/SDV6 Diesels): Known for crankshaft bearing and journal fractures between #2 mains and big ends, often leading to instant engine death. Most frequent after 100,000+ mi, but can occur earlier. Early VINs (5A & 6A) less affected. Repairs are expensive and engine replacement is usually required.
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Listen for knocking or rumbling from bottom end, examine oil for metal shavings, and check diagnostic history for related warning codes.
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Timing chain elongation (all models, especially 3.0 petrol/diesel) can cause cold start noise and catastrophic failure if not addressed.
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Turbocharger failure symptoms include power loss, blue smoke, and whining sounds.
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Oil leaks from pan or valve covers are common, and cooling system must be in perfect order to avoid cracked heads.
| Component | Symptom/Sign | Likely Fix / Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Crankshaft (2.7/3.0 TDV6) | Knock, metal in oil, sudden stop | Full rebuild/replacement, costly |
| Timing chain | Cold start rattle, poor running | Replacement, timely intervention |
| Turbocharger | Blue smoke, whining, EML | Turbo replacement, moderate-high |
| Cylinder head | Overheating, mixing fluids | Replacement, very expensive |
4. Suspension & Steering
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Air suspension may sag or fail, especially on later models; check ride height and operation.
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Listen for knocks from Panhard rod bushes, damper turret corrosion, worn radius arms, and pitted swivel housings.
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Steering pump leaks are common.
5. Brakes & Wheels
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Test electric handbrake function: known failure items that often require Land Rover’s official update or redesign.
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Check brake pipes and hoses for corrosion and leaks.
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Inspect wheel alignment and for damage after off-road use.
6. Electrical & Lighting
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Electric window motors, door latches, central locking, and heated screens all liable to wear or failure.
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Battery drain issues (parasitic draw) can flatten tires and cause recurring breakdowns.
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Sunroof drains often block, leading to interior leaks and subsequent electrical faults.southcoastgarage+1
7. Interior & Trim
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Wear in leather driver’s seat, roof lining sag, and water ingress (especially sunroof) leading to electrical gremlins.
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Third-row seat strap failure impedes seat folding.
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Confirm all electrics, switches, climate control, and infotainment operations.
8. Test Drive Notes
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Engine must idle quietly and accelerate smoothly.
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Listen for any rumbling, knocks, misfires, or power loss under hard acceleration—potential sign of imminent crank failure.
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Suspension should absorb bumps quietly, no warning lights should stay illuminated.
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Firm brakes, straight steering, no vibration.
Ownership Costs & Market Value
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Crankshaft replacement/remanufacture at a specialist typically costs £5,000–£10,000+ (depending on labor and extent of damage)—making provenance and inspection paramount.
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Common repairs include rust restoration, air suspension module, turbochargers, timing chains.
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Annual running costs are high; expect at least £1,500+ for well-used models.
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Market values depressed for models with upcoming engine work; low mileage and strong history command premiums.
Buyer’s Verdict
Discovery offers immense versatility and luxury, but crankshaft failure in TDV6/SDV6 diesels is a deal-breaker without proof of repair or exceptional service history. Early Discovery 1 and 2 models suffer rust and wear; Discovery 3, 4, and 5 models must be checked for engine and suspension faults. Only buy with a recent, expert inspection—especially on diesel V6s. Prioritize documented engine work and rust-free body. Approach with caution: green light only for examples with clear service history and recent crank repairs.rangeroverenginespecialists+3
