Used 1998 Land Rover Discovery SUV Consumer Reviews
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We love our Land Rover
Louis, 08/03/2009
1998 Land Rover Discovery 50th Anniversary 4dr SUV AWD
16 of 17 people found this review helpful
We have about 120,000 miles on this car now and it is our favorite drive of the three in the garage (the others are a Jaguar and a Porsche, great cars on their own). Roadholding is exceptional in any weather and terrain (British cars have the best suspensions). Build quality is not perfect and so is reliability, but the design is great, both exterior and interior. Acceleration is slow (very heavy car) but adequate. Fuel economy is antiquated. Great to drive at speed on the highway, to our surprise. Dealer service is exceptional. When maintained well (not cheap), the car should last a long time. As I said, we love it with all its faults. This is an enthusiast's car, not an appliance.
Discoverys are Great!!!
Anthony Richie , 03/09/2007
1998 Land Rover Discovery LE 4dr SUV AWD
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
As I researched this SUV I saw a lot of people talking bad about it. I would like to clear things up. First, about the gas mileage. What did you expect? Its a large off road V8 its not a Honda. I like to think of my discovery as a tank with leather and sunroofs. I heard a lot of complaints about the windows and sunroofs either not rolling up or leaking. Considering all the things that could go wrong with any car I thought the window thing was a pretty small detail. My rear windows wouldnt roll down, I fitted it with a window relay that cost $35.00. Besides that I have only done basic maintenance.
Time to move on
Giddyup, 09/29/2003
1998 Land Rover Discovery 50th Anniversary 4dr SUV AWD
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
Was initially attracted to the LR because of the styling...which is still IMHO awesome. Went for the Silver Anniversary model because of the add. features. Everything was grand until I hit 60K miles(just about the time the warranty was running out, go figure). In the last 3 months have replaced among other things a door lock actuater, transmission linkage, and a blown head gasket. I can deal with the small quirks(cup holders, brakes, road noise,etc.)but the reliability disappoints me. Sorry, LR...gotta move on.
Louise the Land Rover
Lar Dog, 03/26/2002
1998 Land Rover Discovery LSE 4dr SUV AWD
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
If I were to build an on/off road auto this Discovery is very close to perfection. A little tight in the way back for shopping, but us "all consuming Americans", buy way too much crap any way. Ha ! It pulls its weight well up dirt track hills, nicely appointed inside, easy to work on in the field, and really hard to roll over. But you can lift a front wheel every now and again. This LSE makes my old 4 Runner, Tahoe,& various Jeep products that I have owned seem like second class citizens.
Best Car of my Life
Disco, 12/10/2003
1998 Land Rover Discovery 50th Anniversary 4dr SUV AWD
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I like to think of Land Rover as the SUV Branch of Jaguar. Both have the best styling on the road, and both are the best at what they are DESIGNED to do. Yes, the Disco is not the most quiet on-road vehicle, but has anyone driven in a Ford Explorer lately? Maybe it is just my experience in about 10,000 different Explorers, but I could not hear my personal CD player over the wind noice of the Explorer at 40 mph. I can only hope Ford will not cheapen the Disco. As for off-roading, there only two cars that can compete. The LR Defender, and the Mercedes G500. They also cost double the amount and are really ugly.
BEST 4X4 EVER
CCF2, 04/21/2003
1998 Land Rover Discovery 50th Anniversary 4dr SUV AWD
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I've loved my Discovery from the first day of purchase. It was just under two (2) years old when I bought it and there have been typical problems anyone would have with ANY vehicle but it's ALWAYS been a GREAT vehicle. When it's dry, ice, snow or wet, it always seems to enjoy everything I have put it through. I have taken it out with friends who own Jeep's and they've scratched their heads at the things my stock vehicle did over their modified Jeeps. I will NEVER be without another Land Rover. Every auto-maker has problems with their cars from time to time and LR is no different but if you want the very best, then there is NO OTHER!
Craptacular!
furb, 02/27/2003
1998 Land Rover Discovery LE 4dr SUV AWD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Here is a vehicle that is supposed to be top of the class in reliability and resale value but it's a dog! Trade in values typically run $3-5K UNDER wholesale! Maintenance is TERRIBLY expensive. The 60K service of changing all the oils, plugs and tightening of parking brake runs $1100!! There really is no maintenance being done that Jiffy Lube couldn't do for under $200. City driving yields 10MPG and highway was all the way up to 13! Find one you like and RUN AWAY!
Fun, good looks, rugged, expensive.
Eric, 11/27/2006
1998 Land Rover Discovery LE 4dr SUV AWD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Everyone well knows that Land Rovers are expensive to own, maintain and operate. Given that, just be thorough in mechanical inspection of a used Rover. Also be prepared to put another 10-20% into your purchase of a used Land Rover (4yrs. or older). With depreciation a used Land Rover is still a much better deal than new (unless you can afford new) Towing ability is less than impressive but beach driving ability and highway is outstanding. Yes its a full-time four wheel drive so expect some stiffness and road noise. (It's not a Cadillac) But it is a Cadillac of mid-size/mid-price SUV's. If you appreciate the luxury and appeal of European vehicles like BMW or Mercedes you will like it.
PLEASE DONT BUY THIS CAR
DONT BUY IT , 01/16/2003
1998 Land Rover Discovery LSE 4dr SUV AWD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought a 98 LSE with 37K only had it for 2 months, and we have been lied to at dealership about fake problems did spend 2500.00 so far on an intake manifold, busted water pump, constant check engine light on due to a broken oxygen sensor. Tons of Leaks that they fill with CORK!(a 1960's fix), driving nut was out (makes the car incredibly dangerous to drive) and Land Rover dealership didnt tell us after we paid $750 for the 30k tune up. Trying to sell it and ealers will not take it because they fall apart. Have lost 5 grand for a peice of junk car, but gosh it sure is pretty. Please dont make the same mistake.
Do not waste your money!!!!!
ajjj, 10/23/2002
1998 Land Rover Discovery LE 4dr SUV AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We bought this so called luxury SUV because of it was supposed to be a safe , reliable , sport utility with a few extra luxuries. Since it hit 60,000 miles it has been problem after problem. Our problems have been numerous cruise control faiure, non functioning speedometer, head gasket demise, abs electrical light flickering on and off. Keep in mind every time you take this heap of junk in it costs you niney dollars just to have someone tell you what is wrong. The repairs are EXPENSIVE and no one can fix Land Rovers in the NC area but the dealer.
Loved it, but regretted it
J Prothero, 06/17/2007
1998 Land Rover Discovery LE 4dr SUV AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I loved this truck's off-road capability, and as an "around town" and commuter vehicle it was fine (except for the 13 mpg and premium gas!). But I spent nearly $2000 a year in repairs - not maintenance. Finally, after the water pump failed on me after plopping down $600 for a fuel pump and having to replace the front sunroof rails twice, I sold it to my wife's dad and bought a Toyota. Miss the truck, but not the cost.
sold to someone else...thank goodness!
SatMan, 01/19/2003
1998 Land Rover Discovery LE 4dr SUV AWD
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Electrical System - 3 times to repair Cruise Control - 5 times to repair Shift Plastic- replaced 3 times Flimsy cupholders - replaced twice Rear hatch - Leaks Door locks - won't open w/ key fixed 2times still not working Replace Rocker Arms - after only 42K Too many other nagging problems to list. I am emabarrased to tell how much money I lost on this ride. I should have known better.
Lots of little things
Former rover lover, 04/28/2002
1998 Land Rover Discovery LE 4dr SUV AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I loved my Rover until it hit around 65000 miles. Things seem to go wrong on a monthly basis now. Both rear windows went out...the sunroof failed, fuel injection went bad, starter went our, speakers busted, oxygen sencers failed. It seems like a never ending saga. If you want a Rover bad enough I say lease.
problem vehicle
bob9992, 10/10/2002
1998 Land Rover Discovery LSE 4dr SUV AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
problems with oil leaks. problems with exaust manifolds cracking. problems continue to arise all the time. Squeeking breaks. last discovery I plan to own!
Sold! It's someone else's headache now!
littlebunny101, 12/27/2002
1998 Land Rover Discovery LE 4dr SUV AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Where do I begin? From day one I have had problems with the Rover. Today 12/27/02 I just received my Loaded 2003 Sequoia LTD for $45K!. Rover was horrible! The plastic film over the gear selector, the cup holders, not to mention numerous electrical problems, non functioning brake lights and turn signals, you name it, no rear lights. Many nagging problems you would not expect from a "lux" SUV. Had cruise control fixed 5 times! Why should I be replacing the gear selector plastic every other month for 250.00 a pop? Cup holders 180.00! Worthless!
Best SUV I Have Ever Owned
Arnold, 08/06/2003
1998 Land Rover Discovery LSE 4dr SUV AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We love the way it drives particularly in wet weather. Our LSE is a British Racing Green which I wish Land Rover would bring back. We have had only a few minor repairs like all cars. I feel I can go any where in any conditions with confidence.
Cult-status Car, but not for the wary
jraescar, 08/28/2003
1998 Land Rover Discovery LSE 4dr SUV AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Overall, we LOVE the design and PERSONALITY of this vehicle -- and the cult drivers we've met. Unfortunately, I wish I felt safer in the rain and going around turns -- the performance here is dismal. Acceleration on the highway is embarassing... and of course, it absolutely needs to have better fuel economy. Definitely buy Series II instead of I... if you go used, which I did.
Got everything I expected
MIKE BLESS, 09/17/2003
1998 Land Rover Discovery LE 4dr SUV AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Had 23K miles when I bought it 3 years ago, now has 90K miles, despite all this driving, have had no major problems other than the electrical failures these seem prone to at around 60K. Awesome in the snow, sturdy design, was rear ended by a dodge ram going 35-40 mph and the frame wasn't even bent on the rover, their car was totalled. I suppose that I got lucky with my purchase compared to these other people or they expect too much, remeber this is a TRUCK and and IMPORT. Overall, has been a reliable vehicle that has allowed me to get outside in harsh winters that we have had in Buffalo the past 3 years
moving on ...
giddyup2, 01/13/2005
1998 Land Rover Discovery LSE 4dr SUV AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Totally LOVE the styling and ruggedness of the land rover. That's the reason I purchased mine 3 years ago. I have not had any major issues with it; however, the check engine light seems to come on every other month or so. This being said, it has become quite an aggravation taking it to Land Rover all the time. Also, these things depreciate more than any vehicle I have EVER owned. Buy for life if you want one; otherwise, plan to LOOSE money!
Land Rover Excellence!
maluco, 02/15/2004
1998 Land Rover Discovery 50th Anniversary 4dr SUV AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have driven this vehicle in the snow, the mountains and the highway. The Land Rover Discovery is an exceptional SUV both on and off road. It handles well, both in poor weather and on sunny highways. However, I do think that Land Rover needs to tighten a few nuts, as the Discovery experiences leaks every so often.
Does what it's supposed to do
Matt Williams, 03/22/2004
1998 Land Rover Discovery LE 4dr SUV AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have put over 50K miles on this truck. I bought it with 25K on the odometer. I have had no problems other than a few minor things that the dealer fixed. Dealer service has been top notch. 4 dealers over 3 years. Never any questions or comments about not buying from them, the dealer just handed me the keys to another Disco and fixed the problem.
Off road, on road, It doesn't matter
Landrovman, 05/22/2004
1998 Land Rover Discovery 50th Anniversary 4dr SUV AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Ive taken my Land Rover off road and I use it as my everyday car. Its a beast, you just dont get cars built like this anymore. The only one that comes close is the Range Rover, and its made by the same company. This SUV was one of the greatest financial and fun things I've ever baught.
Mixed feelings
wanda, 01/17/2006
1998 Land Rover Discovery LE 4dr SUV AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I am really sad, I have mixed emotions with my rover. Love the vehicle but can do without the expensive repairs, It seems that after the warranty wore off every thing went wrong and the parts are very expensive. I don't know if the newer models were built better but with my 1998 we have not had to much luck. I love the way it handles and the fact that I feel safe driving my kids around in it. Will truly miss it when we get rid of it.
1998 Disco
Kirk, 07/18/2006
1998 Land Rover Discovery LSE 4dr SUV AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchased certified from dealer with 32k miles. Have had no problems. Does not leak anything. I change the oil every 3500 miles. Use the Disco to tow 3800# boat 5 miles to water. Never off road. Take the Disco to our Mt. cabin in deep snow, have never been stuck. The paint is flawless and looks new. The drivers leather seat is a little worn. It has 62k miles on it now> I had the trans , brake, power sterring fluids changed a few years ago. I will have the diff, and swivel greese changed soon. I would trust it anywhere.Yes it does use gas! Feel very safe on CA freeways. I am tempted to ram the slow driver in front of us!
This SUV is the ultimate
calwesty, 03/20/2003
1998 Land Rover Discovery LE 4dr SUV AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have only had this vehicle for a short time, but I find the ride and quality to be exceptional. The Gas mileage is fair about 16 mpg for a V8. The Disco is slightly underpowered, but has plenty of torque to handle pulling a substantial load. I give it an 8.5.
Land Rover Discovery LSE 1998
roughtoughcreampuff, 12/16/2002
1998 Land Rover Discovery LSE 4dr SUV AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This automobile has lots of character. Definate English design and feel. Had some mechanical problems, however, the dealership was very accommodating in correcting problems and providing alternative transportation when necessary.
Best SUV Around
Loser530, 06/16/2003
1998 Land Rover Discovery 50th Anniversary 4dr SUV AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This has been one of the best vehicles I have ever driven. True it is slow, but there is no equal off road. This was my first car which I bought with 80,000 miles on it. Since then I have put 10,000 miles on it and haven't had any problems. This thing will go anywhere in style. I have the best car in school. A real head turner.
It's my snow plow truck
Joseph, 12/27/2019
1998 Land Rover Discovery LE 4dr SUV AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Had silly problems when I got it like windows and seat buttons I drive it daily as well as plow snow with it (have a western 7 foot uni mount plow on her) I eventually had to rip thru the cooling system upgraded water pump thermostat etc also upgraded the transmission oil cooler to one about 3 times the size as a stick one ( to compensate the fact it's pushing heavy snow and I tow alot with it ) for the most part it's a tank and eats gas but it's so bad ass I don't care I drive it everywhere on and off road 172,358 miles on it at moment trans shifts as smooth as butter occasionally she don't like to start up for some reason but I have ether for times like that
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Buyer Beware!
Hunka Junka Owner, 01/31/2003
1998 Land Rover Discovery 50th Anniversary 4dr SUV AWD
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
I feel like a fool! We should have known when it took 15 days for the dealer to deliver. We went back 3 times for bubbling paint. During the first 90 days, it was in the shop for 67 days. The transmission clunked, the check engine light was continuosly on, the cruise control broke twice, the muffler system was replaced front to back ($5000 in parts), 3/4 oxygen sensors went right after one another - I guess, in summary, the vehicle was a lemon. We regret our purchase and warn everyone that we know to warn everyone that they know. This should be your second (or third) vehicle since it will spend more time in the garage than on the road!