REDLINE ALLEYLand Rover Discovery 3 buying guide
2004 to 2009. A Discovery 3 suits a family that wants a roomy, very capable 4WD and will budget for the risks on the 2.7 diesel.
Big jobs
- 2.7 TDV6 crankshaft. The crankshaft on the 2.7 diesel can snap, and there is no way to predict it. It is a very costly fault.
- Air suspension. The air suspension can leak and develop electrical faults, and the height control computer can go awry until the engine is switched off to reset it.
- Diesel cambelt. The diesel cambelt needs changing and it is an expensive job.
- Differentials and front end wear. Most used examples had warranty attention to diff issues, ball joints and steering rack ends.
Workshop jobs
- Electronic parking brake. Brake dust and dirt in the mechanism can stop the electronic parking brake holding.
- Air conditioning and cabin electrics. Faulty air conditioning sensors, compressors and corroded pipes are reported, and central locking, electric window and rear wiper faults are common.
Small jobs
- Fuel leak recalls. There were 11 recalls, five for potential fuel leaks mainly on cars built before 2007, plus seatbelt buckles and brake servo issues.
Questions for the seller
- Is it the 2.7 TDV6 diesel or a V8 petrol?
- When was the cambelt last done?
- Has the air suspension been repaired?
- Have the diffs been worked on?
- Have all recalls been done?
Sources
Researched 2026-11-05. General guidance from owner and specialist sources. Check the specific car with an independent inspection.