Used 2000 Land Rover Discovery Series II Consumer Reviews
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Before you buy, how handy are you?
I've been reading a lot of the poor ratings, and I get that you've had bad experiences with the Discovery 2. They can be fussy, but for very specific reasons. Let me explain, and perhaps this will help prospective buyers. Land Rover Disovery Series II is a one of a kind car. You just can't find cars that do what they do anymore. We looked at purchasing new SUV's, and you'd end up spending 80K vs 4K for a disco to find a car capable of what the disco is. IMHO, they were bough for soccer moms in the late 90's and early 2000's. They are not japanese cars. They need attention. They need a lot of attention. It's when you ignore things that sound wrong, or don't pay attention to rattles or leaks that they go do hell. Rather than paying a car note of 600 bucks a month to a bank, we decided to pay a good mechanic a third of that to keep our Disco alive and safe and have some gas money. It works out. Assume to pay 3-4K per year in upkeep. That's just used car 101. Don't subscribe to "It's a land rover thing" when stuff breaks. All used cars break if not attended too. Rubber deteriorates, parts go bad, you just need to have a budget for it. Common issues with the Disco: 1: ABS - It's a well documented issue and you can fix it for 5 bucks and a half an hour, if you know what you're doing assuming all sensors are ok. The ABS module has a short, which can be fixed or bypassed with some knowledge. You can find all the info on land rover forums. 2: A/C Parts can go bad, but the main thing is that the fuse box can get corrosion, and there's on bad solder point. again, some knowledge and you can get this fixed in 1/2 an hour for 10 bucks. Simple stuff, and well documented. 3: leaks - The head gasket is the big one. It goes bad. Most have been replaced by 2015. I just had mine done a second time. I don't think the original replacement was done right, but we drive ours everywhere, so who knows. Rubber goes bad. Most of the seals should be replaced within 15 years anyway. Again, not a japanese car. Land rovers are technically somewhat complex in that the have many computers and sensors to manage everything. But, electrical issues are fairly easy to diagnose with a multimeter. You have to have some knowhow or interest in learning. Those electrical issues are the expensive ones because you typically have to go to the dealer to get a good reading, and they will overcharge. If you can learn the layout, you'll save thousands over time. Here's the thing... now, cars are completely controlled by even more complex computers. You're always going to have this hurdle unless you're driving a car from the 70's/80s. MOST IMPORTANT THING : If you're handy, it's fun because it's simple enough that you can fix these cars yourself with some time and interest. If you just want a car to go from point a to point b . .. you should get a Hyundai.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Like nothing else, blows asian and domestic cars away
People will claim that the discovery was the worst car ever because a light came on the dashboard, or that brakes had to be replaced. Many of the things that could go wrong with a discovery have to do with the driver's negligence or driving style. I have taken care of my disco and she has taken care of me. Driving position and view like no other vehicle, fantastic in the snow, and looks good to boot. Dual sunroofs still entertain me to this day and the sound system is really nice. Aside from a plastic t piece in the cooling system braking, nothing has gone wrong. Feels utterly solid when driving, very heavy and reassuring. Makes my dad's tacoma feel like a dishwasher.
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $6,900396 mi away
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $7,900489 mi away
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $9,8501,412 mi away
BEST VALUE on the market!! Thanks!
I just love this car. The design is perfect, and the interior is a dream with the suede leather doors, dual sunroofs etc. B/c of the negative posters on this board, I used this as a big bargaining chip to get my SUV for only $8,000! My LRII is in fantastic condition with the 18" rims and and all. I used to have a $80,000 G500, and frankly, my DRII is just about the same! So again, THANK YOU to all the negative posters! Anybody who complains about Gas Mileage should be a stand up comedian! Also, anybody who takes these cars to dealerships to get them services are ASKING to be stolen from. Come on guys, go find an honest mechanic. They charge HALF the labor. Do NOT get ripped off!
A Matter of Perspective
Our 2000 Discovery was purchased used from a man who did not take good car of it, and was not truthful of it's previous life, so it's been rough going. Nice easy to clean leather with comfortable seats. The second row is nice. You can carry adults, but not fitting for long car rides. and their knees will be rubbing a little bit. The third row can seat children.
Isn't it funny...
Isn't is funny how people buy a used truck and then complain that it breaks? When maintained properly, these are phenomenal vehicles. It didn't stop being a premier upscale vehicle when you bought it cheap and used, so the maintenance requirements are still that of an expensive European vehicle. Buy one without records and you're rolling the dice. As for me, I have a 2000, 2002, and two 2004 Discos and none have ever broken down. Sure, they have had little problems like any car- broken door lock, wiper motor. Big deal- if you can't afford to maintain a car properly, don't get it.
The best Land Rover
Land Rover club member for years + owned past rovers so I have had a lot of exposure to Land Rover products and people's experiences. If you want SUV for the road only you can do better elsewhere. If you want capable off road vehicle that you can comfortably and reliably cruise continents in then D2 is your ride. Don't get ACE or rear air ride. Stick to coil spring model. It is fairly straight forward to fix, the galvanized body and all technical improvements make it huge improvement over Disco 1. Been driven off road for 5 years - up to nearly door handle deep water, deep forest mud, Rocks, Moab and Colorado trails. Now got 230K km. Great visibility with low screen. Discover the world.
Land Rover owners are patient people.
I loved the panache. I loved the snob appeal. I loved it's off-road ability and prestige. But man, this thing drinks a lot of gas and it's been serviced so much, the guys at the dealership know me by name. I was caught in a bad flood in Los Angeles while driving my Honda. Most of the surface streets and some fwys were closed due to flooding. From the corner of my eye I saw a Land Rover going through the water like it was nothing. "Someday.", I said. Today, I own two of these vehicles and it has been an adventure in and out of the dealer service shop.
Not as bad as its reputation
I felt this car had the best interior and 4wd system for the money when I purchased it. We have taken it off-road five times in two years and it does perform well. It is quite a bit less competent on-road and the seating position is noticably crampt for my 6'3" frame. Overall, it has been a car that I like due to a solid feel that transcends its old design and flaws.
A real SUV, not a metro...
I have owned 5 rovers now over the last 15 years, a Land Rover first, a series II, a Discovery, a Land Rover Contry and now this Discovery II. Mind you my first car was a Triumph TR6 back in 1977, so I "get" the British car thing. That being said, compaired to a boat, these Rovers are great. With an ocean going boat (long range, non coastal) you expect to have "issues". But you also expect it to be well found and basicly capable of what it was intended to do. That is what Rovers are all about. Expect persnickty problems but know that you are driving a world class very capable machine. This car can bail you out of many tough conditions, they truly are amazing in their capabilities!
chucks
great truck rides great great looking look out on the gas about 15 to 16 mpg
A True SUV with Old World Charm
I have owned this car since new, and purchased it simply because i liked the styling. It was like nothing out there at the time. Well the car has proven to be very reliable and the interior has held up exceptionally well. It's one of the few SUV that DOES use real leather and real wood trim. Unlike the American or Japanese SUVs that use leatherette? and only a small 12"x12" patch of real leather; what a joke! I recommend this car to anyone wanting to purchase a very nice SUV, that you can own for many years and have the car perform, look good and unique. However, maintenance is not cheap. its very expensive, but the car is well worth it. the reward is a nice car that gets better with age.
Reliable Truck-Great Dealership
I have my Disco II for 3 1/2 years now and have put 35000 miles on it. I have driven it on 2500 mile marathon business trips and taken it offroad many times. It has proven to be the most reliable vehicle I have owned. The Disco has only had minor issues to be fixed such as trim pieces and the CD changer. But the dealership fixed them fast and free without arguement. Other Land Rover owners I have met all seem to sing the same tune. Years ago I drove a vintage 70's Range Rover through the rainforests in Costa Rica, that trip convinced me that Land Rover makes the ultimate SUV's!
Great Truck - Mechanically (only)
This is all truck. The fit and finish of the plastic items both inside and out leave quite a bit to be desired. Many small parts and bumper cover cracks, internal fit and finish is below par for a vehicle of this class, though very comfotable seating and appointments, the creature comfort systems cannot be relied upon. Swithces, and molding are too easy to break. These negatives aside, it has been a mechanical workhorse, very reliable and can truly drive through anything. I would put my kids in it any day.
There and back again, Safety First!
Bought this car new and have put the majority of the miles on it in adverse weather conditions, in the Teton, Sawtooth and Wind River Mountains. It has always taken my family and I along with all of our kit AnyWhere that we wanted to go. Often past the marks where other trucks had stopped to turn around. Eventually I passed it onto my son and he flipped it upside down in to a 6' drop with three passengers. No injuries. The integrated roll bar protected the cab from collapse with only minor structural damage. This is a fantastic rig if you need to know that you will push the limits and return unscathed...
Unreliable and Not Worth The Bother
I thought the LR Discovery was the answer to not wanting to drive a wagon, or a bus type SUV, however, Discovery has little "get up and go", is frequently in the shop, either for a recall, or to address some other annoying problem. I did not find replacing all brakes within the first 19K miles a sign of a well designed car, (for $1,400)and didn't appreciate the service manager jeering at my surprise at how often the car was in the shop. I was told all LR owners know they are supper expensive to maintain, and that you need a standby car, or second LR to fill the gap. I don't need another car (truck) like this one.
I LOVE my Disco!
I have had this vehicle for 5 months now, and it has been nothing but a joy! Fits me perfectly, very reliable, interior design is amazing, can fit plenty of stuff into the cargo area. Plenty of head/leg room. Recently replaced head gaskets for preventative maintenance. Replaced U-joint as it was going bad, and spark plugs, and thats about it. Wonderful in snow and ice, actually have taken to helping tow other people out of ditches! As long as the Disco is maintained properly and synthetic oil and premium gasoline is used its an amazing SUV. Dual sunroofs are an added bonus. Wouldn't trade it for the world!
Happy, Happy, Happy
Purchased this truck with caution because of some reliability questions from reviewers. Well, I can say that this truck has been in the shop for only regular service intervals(over 30,000 miles on the clock). I had an Explorer and boy was that a piece of #%$ %. I am very happy with this truck and it is what I expected and more. You can't ask a legit truck to perform like anything other than a truck. If you want a car, buy a car. I would definately reccomend it and would buy again.
Steer Clear of this Vehicle
Overall, this purchase was the worst decision of my life. Bought this car for ecological work and needed towing capacity. After 3 years, I have never used this vehicle for it's intended purpose. Before I drove it home the first time the water pump went out. The second time the drive shaft fell off. Apparently, this is 'common' on LR. Everything has unusual engineering making repairs both extensive and extremely expensive. Tires are even outrageous. Though I validated this vehicle had a newer engine in it, virtually everything else has fallen apart. HORRIBLE mileage. Only put about 10K miles on it due to issues. Drove my Ford Explorer about 40K / yr for work...
overrated
Plagued with defects and problems. Has needed new thermostat, fuel pump, front and rear brakes and rotors, headgaskets, etc. Extremely expensive to repair, parts availability has been problemmatic, repairs take a LONG time. Once the warrranty is over, you pay through the nose. Do not keep past warranty if you are foolish enough to want one.
Nightmare
My wife and I could write a best selling book on the horror "stories" we have had with this vehicle. (We will spare you) This is not a reliable vehicle. We have never taken this vehicle "off road" or in the snow, which is what it is supposed to be used for. From the electrical system, power train, brakes, rotors, ABS, etc. we have had nothing but problems. We have spent over $10,000 in the past 2 years on this vehicle in repairs and it is still broken. (ABS sensors, etc) We are going to buy a new car this week and we will never buy anything Land Rover or Range Rover ever again. We do not drive our cars "hard" either. 100% suburban environment, no snow, no hills, no bumps, etc. Lemon!
What a tragedy...
Well where should I start... I bought the Land Rover at 85K miles, drove it to about 110K miles and then decided to trade it in after about $6000 of repairs to the hydraulic shocks, and other things I cannot remember due to the horrible memories being blocked from my memory that are just too painful to think about. The car was tremendous fun for off roading, but please do not buy unless you work in the medical field or a CEO.
NOT a well built vehicle
This vehicle is not well built AT ALL! All sorts of problems...lock actuators,leaks,crappy cup-holders. This one has the ACE pkg and it whines like a scared cat. Replaced the ACE pump and it still screams. Wipers don't work half of the time and I could go on. You can't find anyone except a dealer over an hour away to work on them and they act like it's no big deal. I run an import car dealership and sell Honda,Mazda,Nissan and Suzukis. All of these have better build quality if you can believe that. The switches seem to have been put in the weirdest places. NO thinking person could have designed these locations.
A Great Machine to Love
I owned a Discovery Series II (SE7) for two years. It was one of the most satisfying vehicles I have ever owned. This was a truely rugged machine. LR made the vehicle tough, I had my family (two young sons and pregnate wife) in it when a drunk driver ran us off the road (it wound up rolling because of a blown tire) but the rugged chasis and roll cage along with seatbelts saved everyone. We came out with a few scratched and bruises...but walked away! I would have bought another one, except I just needed a larger vehicle now and the larger 03 design is not out yet.
My second Disco
What I can say is that a Discovery will treat you how you treat it. Baby it, do ALL regular maintenance, especially oil changes and checking the coolant. 80% of head gasket replacements are due to failure to change the oil. If you’re in the market, look for one with a good service history, preferably a one owner and that has not been abused over the years. Also be sure to check the frame, especially the rear quarter as sat and dirt build up back there and rot it out. Find yourself a good mechanic who works on European cars and you’ll find that repair cost and parts are not as obnoxious as everyone makes it seem - many mechanics know the stigma that Rovers cost an arm and a leg to fix, it is simply not true, Discovery 2’s are actually very straightforward and easy to work on - most mechanics just take advantage of the stigma. Parts for my Nissan Xterra are more extensive than half the Rover parts! If you maintain it, it is a strong, sturdy truck that is excellent in the snow, off road and for getting around town. And, there’s something about them that is just fun to drive - nothing like it out there! But, select one carefully!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Worst SUV Ever Made
We have had problems from day one. Car has never been off road. Car has never been in the snow. We have had major electrical problems ranging from seat motors, engine wiring harness, brakes and rotors after just 20,000 miles. Oxygen sensors, headers, etc., ignition switch failure. My wife drives the car around town. It's the most unreliable car I have ever driven or heard about. Gas Hog. Horrible ride on freeway. Scared to take it off road for fear it will fall apart more than it has. Engine is 1960's technology!
Eat Sleep Rover
I got my rover from my parents as my first car. When we first got it we had several repairs that would require fixing. Lucky we were part of a Land Rover Club (which I recommend for all Land Rover owners to find) so we got the parts cheaper and installed by members for no charge. So all I can say is just be ready to work on the Disco if you get one but it is worth it.
Avoid at all costs
I've spent much more than this car is worth in the last 2 years. Sensors that don't fix the issues with a dealer that doesn't have a clue, gaskets, oil leaks, stereo, and other glitches too numerous to mention.
Ergonomics
Replaced tires and brakes @ 30K. Say its normal. High pitched sound when driving @ 55mph+. Door handles and window operation drive everyone crazy. Requires a oil change every 3k or it will acts like its neglected.
hard to beat
you can tell bmw had control of rover for a while- my disco has been very dependable. everything has worked well; i had a couple of delivery defects but since then - basically great. no rattles at all. it does ride like a truck - it is not cushy - and i would love to have the new 2003 model with an additional 35 hp - but all in all- i cannot come up with another suv i'd rather have. the handling with the ace performance package is amazing! it handles like my boxster- well almost! the service at fmw in natick is marginal but the service at lr hanover is exceptional! they treat me like royalty and i did not even buy the car there!
Best 4x4xFar
Reliability has been top notch. It has been to the dealer for repairs - but for things like a new radiator after a boulder hit the front of the car at high speed - so hardly the car's fault. Folding 7 seat option the best system I've seen. Great comfort and amenities. Fabulous off road or in snow. Don't understand why some folks on this review page cite things like "too tight for somebody bigger than XXX", or poor gas mileage. Don't these people test drive their cars? And the MPG is posted. Why complain after buying it. I have be extremely happy with the car and the dealership customer service is second to none.
just got
Just picked up the truck and only drove it 2500 miles. I find that it handles very good and has resenable gas milage 16mpg for a 4x4 truck(out here in Clo.most have 4x4 pickp trucks or big SUV`s with far worst mpg`s).I have been reading other reveiws before buying it and I really don`t know what the others were thinking. IT`S A TRUCK!
Buy with Caution!!!
I have owned my Disco since December, 2000 and since that time I have had nothing but trouble. Here is the list: Oil Pan leak, Main Seal, Intake Manifold, Right and left Head Gasket Oil Leak, Radiator Replacement, Four new Rotors and Brake Pads, Three ECU boxes(that contols the ACE,HDC,Traction control,etc...). Both sun Roofs had to be replaced, Drive shaft replacement Plus the regular maintenance and recalls. My disco has been in the shop a total of 31 days in the last year. Thank God I was covered under warrenty.
what does SD stand for
my original vehicle was an eclipse gt fast, quick, manueverable (great fuel milage) We needed something that one could explore the mountains with. The SD that we purchased was just the ticket. It came with a bush bumper up front with attached lights, and all the extras that would make a ghost town excursion doable. All we need now is extra fuel cells and a metal detector. Keep up the good work Land Rover, maybe somday we'll be able to purchase a new Range Rover, GOD willin' and the creek don't rise, sincerely, DARKSTAR and his new bride BUTTERFLY
Can't top this one!
38,000 miles without a problem, and still drives like new.....solid, no squeaks or rattles. The truck has a heck of a reputation, but mine has been fantastic and bullet proof. Has anyone looked into an Explorere or a Grand Cherokee and compared?? Not even close on interior quality, features, and ability. I will own another.
Awesome!
What can I say - it's the best 4x4xfar!
Only as good as the company!
Every seal on this truck has gone during the warranty period. No wonder they have a 50,000 miler. The last factory recall took me out of service for 18 days! Yikes! I'm out of this truck since LR refused to extend my warranty and I no longer trust it. You cannot rely on this company! Don't buy one of these if the dealer is not within a few miles of your castle!
LOVE IT!
I love this vehicle!!! Way too many people buy these Discoverys and say that there are many problems with them...I dissagree! I purchased mine back in Febuary of 2000. I have yet to have a problem with it! I also bought a used one for my son when he turned 16. Yes gas can be a strain, but overall we have yet to bring his in also. There are a few little things that have broken, but nothing I couldn't fix myself. Great vehicle!! I recommend for anybody wanted a great offroad vehicle or just for getting around town in style.
3 words: Do not buy.
There is no point in trying to write about all of my horrible experiences with this vehicle. I don't have the space and you don't time. Suffice it to say that this car defines a "piece of crap." It was constantly needing repairs, which were absolutely astronomical at the dealership and virtually noone else would work on a Land Rover. Be smart: these reviews don't lie. This vehicle defines a "money pit." If you're thinking, "well I'll just buy a new one, they're under warranty." Forget it, because as soon as the warranty expires, you'll be paying the repair bills unless you sell it first - just wait until you try to sell it. You'll be lucky to get trade-in value by selling it private.
Land Rover Discovery 2002
Noises and constantly breaking plastics plague the enjoyment of this vehicle. Windscreen wipers supplied by Land Rover do not last long and need constant replacement. Road holding is best in category and drives very well compared to US made vehicles. Sound is not kept our very well and noises inside originate from heating and other items that loosen. Looks great but dirt from breaks is a big problem.
Disco
My wife won our 2000 Land Rover Discovery. My father drove a Land Rover in Western Colorado in the 1960's; never thought I'd own one - had been driving sports cars, but this vehicle is great: stopped me from being a lead foot. No major quality problems, 28k miles in three years, dealer is great, maintenance prices are reasonable for an upscale vehicle.
Great SUV
I don't know what everybody think. For me, this is a good SUV. I tried Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota 4 Runner, Honda Passport before I decide to buy this SUV. It's strong and very comfortable. If you want a real SUV, Land Rover Discovery II is the one you should pick.
BEWARE
Leased a new one - fully loaded. Had a tire blowout at 300 miles. Which messed up the power steering, unable to drive. Plauged with problems. Brakes every three months, belts breaking. You name it - it was replaced. Each of the sun roofs were replaced three times. It was a money pit! I was glad to see it go! Would NEVER own past warrenty!!!
Go Anywhere
I purchased my go anywhere Rover used from a private party. I have had the typical problems and repairs, but what other vehicle will let you drive in comfort to a nice trailhead, and then once on that trail tweak her in all sorts of ways. There are not too many vehicles out there where you can just get in and drive just about anywhere on the planet. This vehicle will require maintenance as any high end European automobile. So buyer beware! If you are purchasing a used one since they depreciate in value quickly, make sure the vehicle has been properly maintained. I have been in the desert/snow/mud, and it has never left me stranded. I would only replace this with a Defender 110.
Just what I thought
It looks like it could go off road, and it can in comfort. Best pushrod engine I have ever used, good power. The zf transmission might be my favorite. Solid axles not as smooth as independent suspension but much stronger by light years. Brakes could last longer, mileage could be improved(uses high test), the only thing that I hate is the position of the remote gas take switch I hit it every time I go for change.
3 years with Discovery II, & all is well
I test drove this car in March in Chicago during a freezing rain shower. I couldn't make this car break loose. The traction was amazing. The car felt solid, very stable, had more storage room than my 4runner, and with the low center of gravity and the ACE option, seemed less likely to roll over. The aluminum body will not rust either (a big + for here in Chicago). The visibility is excellent. The braking ability is excellent. It's sort of slow with respect to accelleration but, if I wanted a fast car I would have bought a Mustang. Other that a loose connection in the fuse box that affected the fuel pump, the car has been perfect for 3 years and counting.
Here's Hopeing
I've actually got one of these and have done so quite recently as I had traded a car which were surplus to my needs plus cash for something more practable as well as to tow my boat in future one I have finished on some current out of water maintanace The nievaty of such of deal to begin with was one that included approximately a 1500 km round road trip just to aquire as I live in New Zealand and drove from Auckland to Wellington and Back and done so with in 24hrs Being a V8 in comparision to the V6 Diamante© sedan I had traded the previously anticipated gas mileage were up there unlike the performance of the engine itself which we're an embarresment to say the least to be even called such Updated Review Amazingly I still have this Vehicle Only because I hardly ever drive maybe to get weekly groceries now and then and of course just tow boat locally to boat ramp about five minutes away It's just too much of a pig on gas to use as an everyday wagon as I much prefer to either drive my light diesel truck or even better still motorbike It's a great tower how ever and one time used to pull out a tree stump which in comparison to my brothers Mitsi RVR Awd trying beforehand and not even making a dent were an effortless task But then again were to be kind of expected but surprisingly as I were to find not with such ease But other than that can't really give a fair review as I hardly ever use other wise as I only really bought this vehicle to begin with for one intended purpose and were mainly for towing my boat for which I am satisfied even if it is only a five minute drive
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
If it isn't one thing, it's another
I Have had non stop issues with my Dicovery. 3 out of 5 doors only open from the inside.the rear moonroof will not open anymore,the front leaks, the upper rear side window leaks. Buttons broke on seats and horn, heater display does not light. My driver side seat heater does not work. Leather Seat cracked on side. Just replaced thermostat and waterpump, And the AC still does not work and you have to go 80 mh down a highway for the heat to heat up and when your stoped at a stop light, it gets cold. keep replacing windshield whiper arms. Rattles!!! Who knows where that comes from, We havent been able to figure it out. OH YA and my favorite, it sounds like ther is a waterfall in my dash board ???
**TAKE MY ADVICE: DO NOT BUY**
absolutely horrible car! very unreliable. Bought it off a guy 5 months ago and now everything went wrong with it. The radiator blew which lead to waaay more problems. Total cost of repairs cost more then the car is worth. It is horrible, I mean HORRIBLE on gas! I barely drive 8 miles to work and I have to put gas in it everytime. Please don't make the mistake I made and buy one! Land Rover stinks!
okay
Plus, the car rides stiff and has little body roll, very functional. Minus-wow-expensive to repair and gas mileage.
Built for Bad Weather, Not Comfort
Great off-road and less so on-road, I very much enjoyed owning and driving the Discovery despite its flaws in MPG, inconvenient interior amentities, wimpy wiper mechanism, and poor on-road performance. A funny anomoly: the vehicle can plow through 4 feet of water or snow (and I did both!), but the wiper motor breaks unless the windshield has been cleared of all snow & ice!