Looking at getting into a LR3...maybe

[NickH]

Yeah, you guys probably get sick of these posts, but I'm going to do it anyways.

I am coming back from overseas at the end of this month and need a new off road rig/dd/family mobile (wife, dog, 2 kids). We have a 2nd vehicle, but the wife wants me to get a safe rig that I can put in a car seat in...blah blah, she is no fun.

I have been shopping for used FJs, Tacomas, Tundras, and the like. I didn't think LR3's were in my price range (around 15g preferably) until I ran across a few and a HSE near where I will be stationed, but I am not sure it's available still being that it's not on their website. http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-...&mmt=[ROV[LR3[]][]]&listingId=399726034&Log=0

I have read that these are very expensive to maintain compared to other vehicles. How bad is bad? What are some things to watch out for or models/trim levels to stay away from?

I do a lot of hunting, everyday if I could, I will tow a trailer when I am hunting larger game. I need a rig that can get me through some creeks,mud, snow, sleet, rain, you name it. I am always out there, especially when the ducks are flying...

Thanks for the help

 

[ryandavenport]

Yeah, you guys probably get sick of these posts, but I'm going to do it anyways.

I am coming back from overseas at the end of this month and need a new off road rig/dd/family mobile (wife, dog, 2 kids). We have a 2nd vehicle, but the wife wants me to get a safe rig that I can put in a car seat in...blah blah, she is no fun.

I have been shopping for used FJs, Tacomas, Tundras, and the like. I didn't think LR3's were in my price range (around 15g preferably) until I ran across a few and a HSE near where I will be stationed, but I am not sure it's available still being that it's not on their website. http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-...&mmt=[ROV[LR3[]][]]&listingId=399726034&Log=0

I have read that these are very expensive to maintain compared to other vehicles. How bad is bad? What are some things to watch out for or models/trim levels to stay away from?

I do a lot of hunting, everyday if I could, I will tow a trailer when I am hunting larger game. I need a rig that can get me through some creeks,mud, snow, sleet, rain, you name it. I am always out there, especially when the ducks are flying...

Thanks for the help

We love ours and it hasn't been exponentially more expensive than my Xterra. The LR3 was a new era for Land Rover and reliability is light years ahead of older Land Rover models.

It's also worth noting that it handles inclement weather a massive amount better than my Xterra. My current Xterra is lifted with 34s and cannot compare to the awesome traction control of the LR3.


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[NickH]

Thank you for the reply.

Is there motors and trim levels that are preferred? That HSE was already sold.

 

[zelatore]

As for motors you'll really only find the 4.4 V8 in the US. We never got the diesel, and the V6 is exceptionally rare stateside.
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The mechanicals of the LR3 are very robust and there are very few reported problems with them in this regard. The weak point is in the electronics and/or air suspension. You'll need a laptop more than a ratchet for these things. More specifically, something along the lines of the GAP Diagnostics IId tool. Consider it a mandatory addition.
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The HSE is the up-spec trim level. It seems most of them I see are HSE spec. The only downside to the HSE is it came standard with 19" wheels that have extremely limited tire selections. It's popular to 'down grade' to SE spec 18" wheels and run 265/65-18 tires. Some of us run 275/65-18s, but that generally requires a bit of modding to avoid rubbing. Nothing crazy and you can find write-ups here and elsewhere on this. If you really want maximum off-road performance Lucky8 now has 17" steel wheels available.
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Some of the trucks are fitted with the 'HD package', which consists of a full size spare (also available separately) and more importantly a rear locker. You can't manually control the lockers on the truck (rear and center) as the computer is in charge, but for maximum off road performance the HD pkg is nice to have. However from your description I'd say it's not a requirement. The standard traction control is very good and will take care of you in most cases.
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They are very heavy rigs due to the nature of their construction. This isn't good for mpg, but does make them nice tow vehicles. I think the stock tow rating is 7000 lbs, (which ironically is just a bit less than what my built truck weighs in at)
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They are very cushy on-road and definitely carry the luxury feel. Sometimes I wish mine was a bit less complicated but that can't be helped. Good interior volume and even semi-usable 3rd row seats (optional) if that sort of thing matters to you. Fortunately the 3rd row folds totally flat so you can still use the rear for gear.
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My truck has aprox. 120K on it and I've never had an actual mechanical problem. I have however had numerous failures in the sensing systems that are supposed to monitor the mechanicals which cause the truck to think there's something wrong. For example, right now I have an issue with the sensors for the transfer case/transmission such that it thinks it can't shift into low range, so the traction control (called Terrain Response) is disabled. Mind you, it shifts in and out of Low just fine, but there's a problem with the wiring harness causing to THINK it's not, so it goes into panic mode. This seems to be a recurring issue with my rig - it's too smart for it's own good. It's beginning to make me wish I had a '60's truck!
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If you get a chance take a few for a spin. Almost everybody who tries one likes it. For your $15K budget you should find plenty of trucks to choose from in any major market. I wouldn't be too worried about miles so much as good service history. 100K doesn't seem to phase the mechanicals on these things, but an owner who doesn't do any preventative maintenance can turn one into a nightmare.

 

[NickH]

Thank you for the reply,

What kind of preventive maintenance do these LR3's require?

I am happy to hear that they tow well as a small boat is in the near future as well. My boy is 6 and he is starting to show a real interest in the outdoors. Ride comfort is also important because I drive 1-6hrs to go hunting. I like the 3rd row seating option, although it won't be used very often, it could come in handy.

I love lifted trucks, jeeps, and the like but I've always had problems with one thing or another after extensive modifications and I really don't want to go down that route again.

Is the HD package a rare find?

 

[Ray_G]

The HD package is somewhat rare and often overlooked in advertisements you'll find on Autotrader and the like-unless they show you a pic of the rear dif you may/may not even know its there. Zealatore's post hit the main points, but to your question about preventative maint it is the norm: change the oil as appropriate (much longer life than the old V8's in terms of engine oil), chance TC, transmission, dif oil to baseline the truck and then perhaps every 60k or so (some do more, some do a lot less). Change air and cabin filters, etc. Some things are basically consumeables for these trucks:
-Brakes, they are heavy but they stop. Learning how to do the brakes will save a lot of $.
-bushings, especially up front. Expect the control arms to need replacing for anything past 60-80k. No big deal.
-tires, they can eat tires given the weight. 30k or so seems to be normal, though less has happened for manny.

Some other things I've noticed (you may want to scan my build thread, sounds like you are DoD and we probably share some outlooks on things):
-they like a strong battery, if you get in one at a dealership and its been sitting or has an old battery it may throw a fit. Expect it.
-A GAP tool should be mandatory, that will get you 80% of the way with many issues. Learning which fuses to pull if you had an air suspension issue is also worth knowing.

In terms of trim I'd suggest a 7 seater, it gives you the chance to pop up one of the seats in teh back for the kiddos to be deconflicted by space.

I bought an SE b/c it was green with a black interior, 7 seater, HID headlights, and cold wx package...the thing I wish I had from the HSE or as an upgrade is the bluetooth/ipod interface, less so the nav. With prices these days I'd suggest you shop around for an 06-08 HSE with ~80-100k miles. Be patient and use the overseas time to surf the internet as I often have.

Having owned several Tacomas, a jeep, and earlier Land Rovers I'll say the LR3 is by far my favorite for long haul road trips at speed. Its reliability has been incredible compared to my D1, and its performance is more than up to task.
r-
Ray

 

[NickH]

Thanks for the reply,

Yes I am DoD, Navy CPO, 16 years active duty. I am a Aviation Structural Mechanic by trade, but these days I turn more paperwork then wrenches. However, I still can get it done when need be. I have no problem and actually prefer to do my own maintenance.

The HSE I had linked was already sold by the dealership, but I will keep my eyes out for them. The SE looked identical to me, but I have untrained eyes in the term of Land Rovers. I will start shopping for a 7 seater, I like the option to have it incase it's needed. I think it might come in handy with the new born and my 6 year old wanting his own space all the way in the back.

My prior vehicles is 07 Jk on 35s, Ram on 35s, XJ on 33s, and 2012 Pre-runner Tacoma DC 4cyl (loved it but lacked power). The pre-runner got it done, but it was really sketchy going through some thick mud and I almost got it stuck several times and why I had the XJ because I didn't want to beat up the Tacoma. The other rigs I sold for one reason or another. I don't think the Tacoma will be large enough for us. I left for an overseas assignment a year ago and sold the Tacoma and XJ. My 6 year old was recently diagnosed with high spectrum Autism (also gifted) and we will have to return stateside in a few weeks so he can have better support. My boy is turning into my partner in crime so I am really looking for a rig that can do it all without sacrificing too much of DD on road manners (the JK and XJ road like a log wagon). As much as I enjoy rolling around in a lifted rig as any other gent, I'm not prepared to sacrifice my DD needs and current funds does not present a 3rd vehicle at this time.

The LR3 seems like a good means to accomplish my DD, off-road, and towing needs. Being I'm a virgin to the Land Rover world, I was very concerned about maintenance costs, and really don't want to jump in a rig and have to sell it a few months later when hunting season comes a long. The wife has green lighted a hunting dog next summer and anything lifted might be a problem when we "load up". Although, a double cab, crew cab, and the like will work, I am down to only one extra seat. Furthermore, I'm pretty partial to my dogs and after a morning hunting in freezing water, I would like them to warm up in the cab. In other words, it looks like the LR3 would be a good option.

I'll be on the hunt, thank you everybody for taking the time to reply.

Nick

 

[A.J.M]

The LR3 is a decent platform.

Maintenance stuff.

They run a lot of computers etc, so they like a good electrical supply. A lot of issues can be traced back to this issue.
General rule, a battery is good for 5 years. You can get the make date stamped on the Neg terminal. Over 5 years and it's time to renew. Make sure the replacement is up to spec.
Alternators can wear out, start to make the car throw up error messages on start up but still run the car.

Front lower arms wear out. They all do it. if it knocks over speed bumps, pot holes etc, its the ball joints, if it clunks under braking. It's the arm bushes.
Remove arm and replace. A popular upgrade here in the UK, is to fit RRS arms. These are also fitted to the LR4 and also armoured LR3 models, they have a better bush design and also a slightly larger ball joint. I've just fitted a set to my own 3 back in April. There is no rule for wearing these out. My original set were shot by 97k, changed at 110k. The pattern part replacements had to get changed at 135k as they were shot. My mates still on his original arms at 129k.

Rear upper arms also wear out, jack car up and support properly. Give the back wheel a tug, if it moves the arms are shot. Again, RRS arms are the better design and i have a set of those on my car.

Suspension compressors wear out. If it's the Hitachi one, it will wear out. The LR4 use a AMK model. FAR FAR BETTER for reliably. It's a good upgrade and one i'm going to do in the next few weeks on my own car.
Wheel bearings can be 100k or so, easy for a shop to change. Go for a decent make for replacement. Timkins is a good one if you can't stomach the OEM parts prices.

Drop links and arb bushes can all wear out. Easily changed, there are plenty of guides on the web to sort them. I would go genuine parts for them.

Flush the autobox every 75k, ZF recommends this. Diffs, transfer box etc can be changed as and when you feel like.

The wear and tear are similar to all cars. This one weighs 2.7 tons so is heavy and does give the brakes and suspension a hard time.

Inside, check everything works, and that there are no water leaks. Sun roof drains can block up, a quick rod usually clears the blockage.
Air con can sometimes fail, usually its the condenser that's leaking. I've changed mine and a regas got the system working.

If it has auto lights and wipers. Test them easily as the sensors are behind the rear view mirror. Cover the outside with your hand and the lights should come on, pour water on it should get the wipers on.

I would bank around $1000-1500 a year for covering work etc they need. There are plenty of guides online to cover changing bits, how to sort the brakes and change arms etc.
They are VERY easy to work on and a decent set of tools can save you a lot of money. Which can then be used for modifications!

I've had my Disco 3 for nearly 3 years, it's done 40k with me, is at 137k miles and i've given it a proper once over for changing parts. It's never let me down and gets off roaded quite often. I'm not shy about using it and i do like to follow my Defender owning mates around courses to annoy them...

Mine. The D3 is a UK HSE diesel auto. Lovingly named Huey and will be with me for many years to come.

 

[Ray_G]

Nick-
Good stuff, my uncle is a retired Senior Chief (QM)-his influence was only somewhat effective since I decided to go Marine, that said I've spent plenty of time on the gator navy and even-sadly-did a tour at CINCLANTFLT/FFC back in the day.

I don't think you will find the maint too bad if you can do it yourself and find one with good bones from the start. Look for maint history and things like the compressor being updated, lower control arms done, brakes, etc. That will save you some time/$ up front. I would look at Edmunds or something to for the differences between SE, HSE, LUX, etc models-in truth so many had dealer add-ons the best thing to do is make a list of what you want in terms of priorities and search based off that. I did that with the green/black color combo, 7 seat, cold wx (the seat heaters are NICE), HID, etc.

I think you will find the driving experience as a DD amazing, they are incredibly comfortable especially given what you are used to. Nothing wrong with a Tacoma mind you, I've had 3 (wife still drives her 02 pre-runner) but the newer Rovers are just in a different sphere. It's also worth noting that with good tires and some time learning the traction aids and wizardry of the truck it can more than hold its own with much more 'built' rigs.

Good luck on the hunt and with the PCS!
r-
Ray

 

[NickH]

Thank you again for all the replies.

I do plan on doing the majority of the maint myself. On the XJ I did an axle swap, RMS, and a bunch of other fun stuff. I prefer to do the maint myself, not because it's cheaper, it's because I know what's been done and it was done right. I have a pretty good set of tools (every man should) and the wife just bought me a 250pc set (love that women) with it's own case, so I can throw it in the back of my rig.

I am on the hunt for a LR3 now, so if there are any recommendations please shoot them my way.

Ray did you retire from the Marines? I've known some good devil dogs.

 

[Ray_G]

Ray did you retire from the Marines? I've known some good devil dogs.

Nick-
Not quite done yet, one day the bus will stop and tell me to get off but I think I have a little longer to go.
r-
Ray

 

[tomr67]

truth on lr3 they are great till theres a problem we love ours but it has had the common lr3 problems, 50k miles on the clock and the rear park brake shoes fell apart, the rear diff is shot and making noise, water was getting in from glogged sunroof drains and rotted the factory wire harness splices which are laying on the floor by the rocker pannel with blue tape around splices instead of being sealed, all common problems

i actualy bought a rover scanner since i have more then 1 rover and cause for alignments, working on park brakes and other things you have to put the lr3 into service mode

i suggest going here and reading up in the lr3 section

http://landroverforums.com/forum/

 

[DVD]

I bought an 05 HSE some 3 yrs ago with 90k miles for the price range you mention. It had good service records and I found an HD model. I've been happy with it and could only repeat what's already been mentioned. I would add that the killer feature (when we got it) was the fold-flat rear section. For quick camping trips, you can fold the both rows of back seats completely flat, quickly and easily. The width and length accommodate a double air mattress, and you have flat, dry sleeping. With the glass roof sections and lots of side glass, it's very nice.

 

[sleddogsam]

After having a good used 2005 LR3 and using mostly on road my friend just sold it after just 1 1/2 years. The reason....he has put just as much money into the truck in repairs as the purchase price. Save your money and buy a LR 4.


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[tomr67]

https://youtu.be/47-naKhZurc


not all lr3 come with fold flat, ours did not i added it, think 05 being the first year have the most issues, still extreemly capable vehicle

guy in our club from our trip last year