REDLINE ALLEYLand Rover Defender L663 buying guide
2020 to now. An L663 suits a buyer who wants a modern, very capable 4WD and will check the software and recall history.
Big jobs
- Air suspension faults. A Suspension Fault message can appear with the system refusing inputs, some cars think they are grounded, and compressors have failed.
- Diesel injectors, starter and intake. Injector failure was reported by more than one owner, and one high km owner had two starter motors and a cracked intake manifold.
Workshop jobs
- Mild hybrid starter generator and 48 volt battery. A warning light from the belt integrated starter generator often turns out to be the 48 volt battery not charging.
- Infotainment and keys. Screens on early cars could black out, and more than one owner had both key fobs die.
- Gearbox control and wind up. Drive can select then drop back into Park, and transmission wind up can be felt at slow speeds, usually fixed by an oil change and software update.
- Front lower control arms. A clunk from the front on poor roads usually means the front lower control arms.
- Windscreen, trim and seat rail recall. Some windscreens cracked for no clear reason, A pillar trim can flutter or fall off, and seat rails were recalled for clicking. The D six airbox was recalled for rubbing the radiator hose.
Questions for the seller
- Is it a 90, 110 or 130, and which engine?
- Have the seat rail and airbox recalls been done?
- Has it had any hybrid, suspension or screen faults?
- Is any factory warranty left?
Sources
Researched 2026-11-05. General guidance from owner and specialist sources. Check the specific car with an independent inspection.