Used 2003 Land Rover Freelander Consumer Reviews
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Red Rover
This vehicle has been great for us, and I enjoy driving it. It's a high- scale suv with a very attractive exterior.
Think Twice
I thought buying a Land Rover would mean minimal problems but this vehicle has given me more headaches than any vehicle I've ever owned. Bought it used in 04 and have had it in the shop at least 10 times since. Mostly mechanical problems such as window malfunctions, door locks, etc. Have problems with it starting on occasion but LR says they can't find a problem. Very disappointed with the reliability of this SUV and usually disappointed with the customer service as well. Think twice before buying this vehicle.
- SE3 2dr SUVMSRP: $7,495324 mi away
Smooth and simple
The ride of the Freelander is fantastic. It handles snow and ice without a hitch. I have taken it through 20 inches of unplowed snow, it did not have any problems. The AWD system works well.
Classic British - stylish and unreliable
We wanted a car that wasn't a Ford Escape or Jeep Liberty and found the Freelander. It's a tad on the small side, but also a lot of fun and can climb a cliff in either direction. However, since buying (new) we've had all 5 window regulators replaced, the sunroof twice, all 4 brake rotors warped and had to be replaced, and most recently the car quit completely, with 6 different error codes in the computer, most notably that the camshaft position sensor had failed. The dealer treats us like poor cousins to the LR3 and Range Rover owners and we can't get a loaner, even for the latest issue. Bottom line, it's a fun car, but if you don't have a warranty, don't buy it.
My biggest headache
I purchased this vehicle certified December of 2006 and I've had nothing but problems. First, I had to have the ball bearing replaced (under warranty $3,000). Then the engine ran hot 3x's, each time the coolant had run out and had to be replaced. The 4th time I had to take it in due to the coolant again, it turned out that I needed a new engine! Thank God for warranties ($7,000). Now it's in the shop again because the gasket needs replacing. I spoke with a Land Rover mechanic that told me to get rid of it. He also said that there have been several problems with the Freelander in general. Further, he said that I will continue to have problems that are expensive if I keep it.
I'm buying American!
My Land Rover owned me. I have never owned a vehicle that required so much maintenance. I have never off-roaded in my Land Rover, nor have I had a fender bender or accident. I purely drive on the pavement to and from work, and in town driving to the movies, dinner, etc. My car is a southern car and has only seen snow for two weeks in the almost 5 years it has owned me. I cannot recommend buying any Land Rover! Anything that goes wrong you are told it is the "British design". Brakes and batteries are expected to last 10-20K miles. I cannot remember the number of recall notices, too many to count. At times the windows won't power down. I thought I would enjoy the durability. Nope. All of the cap covers & compartment covers fall off. My drink holder spring fell out for no apparent reason. I am not tough on my car & it is literally falling apart. I will find plastic pieces on the floor & have no idea where they came from. I'm buying American!
fun but not reliable
not very reliable when it comes to functional items but very good offroading and comfort.
Nothing but problems
As soon as my 50,000 mile warranty was up, so was my suv. At 63,000 miles I needed a new engine due to a crack in the block that was causing coolant to leak into the engine. I picked it up from the shop about a month ago and my heater core and heater motor now need replacing at 65,000. Unfortunately, I can't get rid of a car that doesn't run and that the heater core smokes so I'm forced to fix it.
freelander
I feel safe in this vehicle, esp with my children. I like the wider wheel base, the reinforced side passenger doors, dual airbags. What I really like is the rear passengers sit up higher than the front for safety purposes. The body design is simple but sporty. Easy to drive and park. The real challenge will be this winter to be able to drive in the snow.
Fun little rover!
This is my second rover and I'm loving it. Handling, handling, handling! I'm continually amazed at how fast I can whip this rover around the corners. The steptronic tranny helps to get the most power out of the V6 as well. Interior is a nice combo of rugged yet comfortable, and very practical overall. I recommend it to anyone pondering entering the land rover stable.
Many Issues Resolved
It was only a few days after purchase that a heat issue surfaced, then smoke started rising from the engine. The radiator and thermostat was replaced, all while I drove around in a Discovery. I also noted some problems with engine & transmission performance on the quality survey I received. Many issues I noted were on a list of recalls. All of the lacking components were addressed and ride/drive quality improved significantly. I am sure these have been fixed on many before delivery, being an "early adopter" has its draw backs. Over all, since my initial problems, I am satisfied with the car/truck.
Not a blessing!!
Anyone who says this car is reliable simply has not had it long enough. After 2 years we had to replace 3 sets of brakes (every 17000 miles) the heater core, the thermostat, the antifreeze bottle and cap, the rear window, the moonroof,and to top it all off the engine. Although it was all under warranty, we were treated as second class citizens by not only the service department of our dealer, but by the land rover north america corporate offices as well. We find ourselves just waiting for the next thing to break. A friend that works in the service dept. Confided that the freelander is a nightmare to most who own it. Getting a lexus rx300 tomarrow. Get out while you can.
Money Pit
This car is a money pit. Bought it as the only car for our family of 4. Fabulous in snow, but bad for your wallet. $3000 to repair massive coolant leaks, new fuel pump, ball bearing (??) needs replaced amongst other things. Check engine light is on and vehicle is shaking and barely running. I've only had it 2 yrs and it has 70K miles on it. There should be a large law suit filed against Land Rover for this vehicle as it seems to have the same problems and even the Land Rover dealerships tell you it's a horrible car. Shame on you Land Rover!
Fun Yet Parctical Car
I have had this car for well over a year and have not once regretted my decision. After test-driving numerous all wheel drive vehicles, the superb on- road handling and true off-road capability convinced me that the Freelander was really the best of both worlds. It is fun to drive, reasonably economical (especially for an SUV), and mine has not yet gotten stuck in mud or snow. Most importantly, it handles the Maine winters with ease, even when the plows are too busy keeping up with the major roads to bother with my sparsely populated neck of the woods.
I still have money for the groceries!
This vehicle despite the price is a complete SUV. It performs well and is very comfortable for a 6 ft plus person. Window controls on the center console is a little awkward, smoke occasionaly rising from under the hood still mystifies me, but with only only one recall so far, I'm pleased. Seventeen inch wheels really set it off, and manufacturer incentive financing makes it a deal.
Landrover's rule!
I love my Landrover! Bought it used with 28,000 mile's last year. And yes I have had to take it to the dealer for a few things but they treated me right. If you like jeeps wranglers on the outside but hate the way they ride this baby's for you.
landrover freelander se
console box near the gear box, too low need to reach elbow level for resting. and size is small. foot space @ the back seat limited space, trunk space small, compared to toyota rav4 2001 has bigger trunk space. stereo system should have tape player, stereo system not that hi-tech. thx.
LR is the best 4x4xFAR
The steering was very tight when new but is loosning as it passes 7k. The salesman and I did doughnuts in a dry parking lot... try that in any other truck. LR service is top notch. It is making some vibration in the rear when turning, dealer says it is traction control, but im not too sure when it happens at low speeds ie: pulling into a parking spot. Overall I love the little Rover. I cant wait to get a bigger one.
Worst car ever
I was so excited to own a Land Rover. The excitement did not last very long. I only owned this vehicle for 2 years and it broke down every few months. It is also extremely uncomfortable, too tiny.
Over All, Not Bad!
If you can aquire this vehicle at year end w/ rebates, it's actually a really good deal!!! Fun to drive and not that bad on fuel...
Upper Class Compact SUV
Although the Freelander is compared with the Honda and Rav4, I don't think it should be. After riding all three, the Freelander feel much more solid and designed for much more aggressive off road experiences while really giving off a "European" feel while on the black top. Weighing in at 4500lbs due to all the steel reinforcements, it can use a little more HP, but it still has a little punch accelerating. The interior is all business but still has a conservative upper class feel. All in all the 2003 model gives much more SUV than others in its class and brings with it the prestige of Land Rover.
Worst purchase ever
I bought my LR used with 40000 miles & thank God I bought the extended warranty! It was in the shop 18 times in 16 months-1 time it sat there for 6 months waiting for an engine that cost me 15,000 dollars! Coolant leaks coils going out window motors broken. At 44,000 miles new engine-I waited 6 mos for that one. 5 months later same problem- I needed another new engine! Out of my 18 trips to the dealer 15 were the same engine problems. The dealer bought it back as a lemon. Oh yeah-it was towed 7 of the 18 times because it didn't run. Never again will I buy a LR. Buyer beware-you will have problems!
DISAPPOINTED BUYER
I BOUGHT MY FREELANDER IN FEB. 2003 WITH 5 MILES ON IT. SINCE THEN I HAVE HAD IT IN THE SHOP FOR THE MIRRORS FLAKING, ASH TRAY BROKE (TOOK 4 TIMES TO GET THAT RIGHT), WINDSHIELD WAS DEFECTIVE, SUNROOF HAS BROKEN TWICE (ONCE ON EACH SIDE), FRONT PASSENGER WINDOW REGULATOR BROKE, BACK PASSENGER WINDOW REGULATOR ALSO BROKE, AND THE MAIN COMPLAINT I HAVE IS THAT THE AIR CONDITIONER IS SO LOUD ON HIGH SPEED THAT YOU CAN'T HEAR OTHER PEOPLE TALKING IN THE CAR AND IT DOES NOT COOL EFFICIENTLY.
More than a pretty face
This is not just another cute ute. I have recently had this SUV seriously off-road it can perform. Even the professional trail guide was impressed. I like the interior, but this is definitely a matter of personal taste. Concerns about storage and on-dash cupholders are BS. I've take a couple of fast-food cups down a rough dirt road with zero spillage. There is limited seat travel and no height adjust. The sun-visor is poorly designed and blocks vision due to its design unless you are short. Rear storage is smaller, but still adequate for most people.
A Nightmare in Sheep's Clothing
Well, Where do I start - Land Rover ought to really be ashamed of the product they built. This engine design is a total joke. I had my Freelander approx. 1 year before I had to trade it in. The problem was with a leak of the engine coolant into the engine. This slow leak was unrepairable. The only TEMPORARY solution was a new engine for a cost of $10K, according to Land Rover-Jaguar of Houston. I had them put the SUV back together and drove it to the nearest TOYOTA dealership where I traded it for a 2005 Toyota 4Runner. It has been happy driving ever since. MY ADVICE TO ANYONE THINKING ABOUT PURCHASING A NEW OR USED LAND ROVER. DON'T DO IT; UNLESS YOU HAVE MONEY FOR REPAIRS.
Made a mistake
The ride was ok. felt safe. Loved the looks. No pick up. wipers broke motor in window went out. engine problems. LR does not stand behind there product. Warranty was denied under bumper to bumper. Inside controls were in a weird spots. seats were to stiff.
Freelander best of both worlds
The Freelander has been excellant both on and off road. Suprisingly comfortable it has not let me down on or off road. It out performs all the compact SUVs I have driven, including Honda and Toyota and I slam dunked a Chevy trail blazer off road. Its a great car.
Coolest SUV ever!
The SE3 is Amazing. The whole idea of a convertable SUV is such a great idea. I've never been much of a Land Rover fan but they sure won me over with this one!
Good Little Rover
I must say that the 03 Freelander is a great little car. With regular maintenance and checking of the fluids we have not had a bit of problems with it. Remember to check the water monthly, it runs quite abit hotter than the normal American Brands. We have not had any problems with ours it currently has 84,000 miles on it, and no major problems besides regular maintenance. Note that Land rover did Recall the fuel module and a stop light sensor and replaced/is required to have them replaced free of charge to us. Great Sporty little car! Ensure that dealer fully informs the buyer of the dos and donts. Dealers like their money/mechanical fees so be sure to ask your questions before buying.
Freelander
It's been a great vehicle, still is.
New Land Rover owner
I have always like the Land Rovers but could not accept the 12-14 MPG of the larger Discovery or Range Rover. The Freelander fit my needs with many of the features I would expect from a Land Rover. Was surprised it lacked several features listed below in the "Suggested Improvement" section. Great car so far. Also had a great experience with the dealership sales staff.
Winner of Our 10-Vehicle Drive-Off!
We spent a month researching the 17 vehicles in this category, and test- drove 10in a multi-round drive-off; this one had the best balance of on- and off-road capability, and ultimately, off-road performance was the decider. Traction Control, in particular, has already carried us through five spots where other vehicles without it got stuck. Dealer-sponsored outings are great, and we held our own with ~20 Discoverys on medium-rated trails with rocks, steep grades, water crossings, and soft sand; most of all, the Freelander is FUN, FUN, FUN to drive!
the best midsize suv there is
it rides better then a cadillac. It rides real smooth, its quite, it handles curves like a sports car, and it is real roomy
Think twice
I purchased this car in 2003 because I wanted a sporty, fun and upscale SUV. Since then, I have had numerous problems with this vehicle. These problems include the engine not shutting off while no key in the ignition, severe alignment issues that could not be fixed by Land Rover and an A/C system that shoots ice out of the vents on hot days. I am very diappointed in this vehicle.
Agree with the class action suit
Had my car for 2 yrs, has 83000 miles on the car. The fuel pump went, upper air intake needed replaced and it too leaked coolant into the oil causing me to need a new engine. All in a 7 month period. The Land Rover dealer told me these cars are unreliable and they have this problem at least once a month. He told me to get rid of it because I will only have more problems. What does that tell you when the dealer thinks it is a piece of junk!!!
Don't walk, run away
We owned this vehicle for approximately 20 months. Total cost of repairs exceeded $16,000.00. No kidding. The engine has inherent design flaws. The cylinder sleeves will fail, coolant will flow into the block, your motor will be shot. You will experience electrical failures right and left. This is the second and last product we will buy from Land Rover and Range Rover. Utterly worthless vehicles. Our Discovery was only marginally better. Gulps fuel as well.
Freelander: the right sized SUV
The Freelander is a unique, fun to drive, premium small SUV. I like to think that it's the perfect size -- just big enough to haul my gear around, but not as huge as some of the other small to mid SUVs. It looks great, and there are few of them around so I don't see myself coming and going. Road holding is very car like. The interior is comfortable, if a bit spartan. Back seat room is exellent and comfortable. LATCH access for the baby seat is great. Since this is the last of the current body style, the dealers are dealing, so if you want the base model S (which goes away next year), get to your dealer today to check it out.
Mixed Emotions
I have a love/hate relationship with my Freelander. The quality isn't what I would expect from LR. Two main issues I have had is watering spraying out of the AC after 10 minutes of driving and problems with my locks. I have had it in the shop at least 7 times to have the AC fixed but they couldn't figure it out and their answer was 'That is how the car was designed'. I am VERY DISAPPOINTED with the customer service group at Land Rover. I hope you do not have to deal with them for any complaints. Very rude people. Don't get me wrong, I still love my freelander but I now second guess if I over paid for something I had higher expectations for.
I LOVE my freelander
I purchased my Freelander in May of 2003 and have driven from the East coast to the West coast and back again, stuffed full of possessions and a very drooly dog. I found that it had everything I needed to deal with the mountains, the desert, and the cross- country trip. I also find it to be quite efficient around town. It is lythe enough to handle Los Angeles traffic at rush hour, while being sturdy enough to deal with big rigs on the interstate.
Works great for me
This Landrover has been great. The front window heater did not work at first. I took it in and the fixed it. The ride is fun. It rides like a BMW. The leather seats and sunroof feels and look great. The Freelander is not so big that you can't park in a parking spot. It feels and drives like a large SUV. Being able to change the radio at the steerting wheel is a big plus.
Best Compact SUV!
I like this car - with the Great Trans and tight handling, it's like a mini BMW! Outstanding dealer in Tysons Corner, VA - gave me a good deal and have a great service dept. No complaints. Don't buy the S, go at least for the SE - there's no comparison between the interiors and the overall feel from the inside between the two.
FREE THE FREELANDER
the baby-land rover is definately FUN. Great to drive! the mileage is very good, handling is wonderful, the sound parallels the bose. It is fairly silent, purrs mostly. Seats could give more thigh support, back could be bigger and most IMPORTANT: it needs some serious side and curtain airbags. English ergonomics are fun, but not usual. Havent gotten it into snow, but it has gone in water pretty deep, with the New York rain. Nice inner city car. Long trips may be stressing due to lack of good seats.
Not a good choice!
I have had the car for 11 months and it had to be taken in 5 times with various warranty issues. The front window raddles, the airconditioning unit control is not accurate, the car died on the road during the 2nd month of purchase. in 11 months, it cost me $650 on break change...It is by far the worse car I have ever had.
Freelander Lover
Just bought this great little SUV. We did lots of comparison shopping and found this to be a really great value - my husband was able to use his Ford X plan on this SUV. We are a family of 4 and thought we were sacrificing cargo space when we bought this vehicle. However, I was pleasantly surprised when we started filling up the back. There is a lot more room than you think. The cabin area is very roomy and comfortable. The ride is very smooth and, so far, it gets good gas mileage. Would highly recommend this SUV! The dealership we went through was a very pleasant experience too!
The curse of Lucas electrics lives
I'm a Brit. I bought a British car built by scousers. I should have known better. This must have been a Friday vehicle. So far we're up to a new engine management computer, a new nav system, 2 heads (for the stereo) and it's back in the shop for a problem with the airbags that they can't seem to diagnose. There have been other minor problems (faulty power windows etc). At least it's all under warranty... If it hadn't lost 1/3 of it's value in 12 months I'd be getting rid of it and going back to a BMW. As it is I'll probably amortise the cost over another year.
Freelander - Funlander - Goddlander
Great SUV Great Dealership - They even have off road events.
Not Happy
I have had my Freelander 16 months. So far the battery had to be replaced, a vaccum hose has been replaced, the heater core went and when fixing that the vaccum motor had to be replaced. I am now on my 3rd radio due to problems with the radio or GPS. And my new problem is the lighter has quit working. Of course this has all been covered by warranty but should all this be wrong with a new car and an inconvience to me as I had to keep taking the vehicle to the dealership until my husband bought the LR3 so now they bring me a loaner and pick mine up. I really like the design of the vehicle but service was not good until we became a 2 Landrover Household.
Rover buyer from here on out
If buying a Land Rover is going to be this easy in the future, I will NEVER buy anything else. The guys at Land Rover San Antonio could not have been better. 1 1/2 hour test drive, paid for and had the keys in 20 minutes. This Rover is great. Small enough to be practical, good cargo room when needed. Comfortable inside. Some complain about the interior. Wake up, it's a SUV, not a sports car. If you want wood and leather, buy a BMW. Great 'English' feel. Very practical and easy to use. Good pick up, which is needed in the land of monster SUV's driven by soccer moms on the cell phone. When you buy one, you really do become part of the 'Land Rover Family'.
Lovin' It!
Well, after I totalled my Toyota Echo I wanted something that could safely handle changing weather conditions. I test drove everything from Mazda Tributes to Ford Escapes to Isuzu Rodeos to Toyota Rav4's and this was by far my favorite! I don't really understand why many people say the car is not fast, or doesn't shift well. If you manually shift in the "sport" mode the Rover is actually very fast! I love it and can't wait to test it out in warm weather!!!
Wish I knew
I wish I would have seen these reviews before I bought the Freelander in April. I have only driven it about 5 weeks since I bought it. It has been in the shop the rest of the time. The place I bought it from wouldn't even deal with me. Neither would Land Rover. A trailing arm split in half, wish I could post pics, from a pot hole. The new problem is the fuel system. It was replaced a week ago and malfunctioned, leaving me stranded on the highway. I have seen the truck on a flatbed more than I have seen myself behind the wheel. I had to get AAA because I ran out of insurance tows. Oh yeah if an extended warranty is your thought, don't think it because LR nor anyone else will give you one.