Member Since: 23 Sep 2015
Location: London
Posts: 2
Few questions from newbie
Hello there, new around these parts but wanting to ask a few questions.
1) Aside from belts, compressor, bushes, front wishbones, what else should I be looking for in terms of major mechanical repairs done/need doing in a 70,000+ car?
2) Could anyone explain why is a D3 (say 2005, td6) allegedly better at fuel economy than a Range Rover of similar spec/year?
3) Diesel or petrol, manual or auto, for better economy?
4) Do the standard aircon has any hidden gremlins a future owner should be aware of?
Thanks in advance!
23rd Sep 2015 1:16 pm
Nodge68
Member Since: 05 Sep 2014
Location: Newquay
Posts: 1014
The V6 in the Discovery is a more advanced power unit than that of the straight 6 BMW unit fitted to the same age RR. The Discovery is heavier than the RR and probably less aerodynamic too. But the TDV6 is a fantastic unit, giving the D3 it's economy edge. Manual gearbox will give you the best MPG, my own gives about 26 Mpg on my commute and over 30 Mpg on the motorway. Fuel economy isn't a major expense of D3 ownership as repair costs, particularly if you use a main dealer, can be eye watering. My Discovery always seems to want something doing to it. Luckily I can do everything myself but even then mine has sucked up over £1500 in parts in the last 12 months
However I did have to play "catchup" on stuff that the previous owner should have done. However, expensive though they are, I don't think there's a better all round vehicle available.
Freelander SE 2005 Auto.
D3 TDV6. Gone.
23rd Sep 2015 1:43 pm
DDDad
Member Since: 10 Jan 2015
Location: Angus
Posts: 1201
^^^^Well said! Definitely go for a manual if you want to keep costs down. MPG is much better and, from what I read on the forum, you can avoid some hefty repair bills later on. Went for a job as a human cannonball. Not the right calibre.
23rd Sep 2015 1:50 pm
Robbie
Member Since: 05 Feb 2006
Location: ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Posts: 17932
I'd recommend the automatic over the manual and as said, fuel is a minor part in running a D3.
The aircon pump is utterly reliable and only the rear aircon pipes (if fitted) are prone to early failure.
At 70k the vehicle should be in good shape with only the suspension bushes and auto gearbox oil drifting slowly to the end of their lives.
Welcome to the forum!
Land Rover - Turning Drivers into Mechanics Since 1948
Member Since: 10 Jan 2015
Location: Angus
Posts: 1201
My air-con condenser went at 35k miles. Went for a job as a human cannonball. Not the right calibre.
23rd Sep 2015 2:02 pm
geoffsnook
Member Since: 13 Jun 2014
Location: south wales
Posts: 3169
Just had my condenser replaced too as they seem to have an issue with a bit of vibration snapping the small pipes on the side Discovery 3 se gone
Range rover sport supercharged here:)
23rd Sep 2015 2:06 pm
Simonstarski
Member Since: 24 Jun 2012
Location: Cornwall
Posts: 686
I've a manual but wish I had an auto. It's a big car, you don't want to be fishing about for gears, you want to sit back and enjoy the ride.
As for reliability I've an older but low ish mileage d3. In my experience, The alternater is one to watch. Umm apart from that I've had a very happy four years with mine. A few gremlins and standard stuff you'd expect to do to any 80k car.
I'm going so far as to say I've just spent out having all the chassis cleaned and wax oiled as unless I get the urge to go for a d4 I want this D3 to last me years Narpy Grill, tinted windows, Smooth leather wheel (TLO Group buy), ACM fitted (thanks TLO), Rear door loom and Row 2 & 3 audio switch upgrade, RRS 20" wheel change, 285 Cooper LTZ's Sat Nav Mod (until I get a Faultmate upgrade), Front & Rear lamp guards. 4x4 screen now switched on - Woody32, Follow me home reverse lights - woody32, Auto release EPB - Woody32. Off Road Navigation - Woody32. Remap + EGR's switched off. Full chassis clean and Waxoyl.
23rd Sep 2015 2:20 pm
smn
Member Since: 23 Sep 2015
Location: London
Posts: 2
Many thanks for such quick replies. Keep'em coming!
In my experience, there are greater differences in fuel consumption than the transmission - like injectors etc. and most importantly, of course, the driver's right foot. Auto is smoother, and when serviced, very reliable and stronger than the manual. Clutches are a hazard for the manual box; fresh oil is key for the autobox. Try both to get a feel for them.
Either way, consider your preference and look at what cars are available. Current: Discovery 3 06MY (55 reg) HSE Auto Zambezi Silver Allisport Fast Road Intercooler, V8 Brakes, Silicone IC Hoses, EGRs Blanked, Remapped, De-Cat pipe, FBHIC
Freelander 2 2007 HSE Manual Tambora Flame
Previous: FL2 56 reg SE Manual Black (written off )
Disco 3 06 reg B7S Manual Rimini Red
Disco 2 TD5 Y reg ES Manual Blue - Chipped
Several Discovery 300 TDis
You cannot post new topics in this forum You cannot reply to topics in this forum You cannot edit your posts in this forum You cannot delete your posts in this forum You cannot vote in polls in this forum
Allisport Fast Road Intercooler, V8 Brakes, Silicone IC Hoses, EGRs Blanked, Remapped, De-Cat pipe, FBHIC
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