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Known Faults Database

Land Rover Discovery problems, reliability and years to avoid

If you are considering buying a used Land Rover Discovery, these are the common problems worth knowing about first. Our garage database tracks 6 known faults for this model, 5 of them rated high severity. Every one below is a repair bill a seller has good reason not to mention.

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Is the Land Rover Discovery reliable?

The Land Rover Discovery has 6 known faults in our database, 5 of them rated high severity. The most serious are engine (on the 3.0 litre V6 diesel the crankshaft bearing shells can move and spin) and engine (on the 2.7 V6 diesel the timing belt tensioner is mounted on the oil pump casing). None of them makes the car a bad buy on its own; the risk is a seller who knows and says nothing.

That is a count of the faults we hold, not a reliability score. Popular cars get written about more, and a newer generation has had less time to show its faults.

Which Land Rover Discovery years should you avoid?

No year is a write-off on its own. What matters is which serious faults a given year and engine can have, and whether the car in front of you has had them fixed.

Years and engines with a serious known fault

  • 2009 to 2017, 3.0 TDV6 / 3.0 SDV6: on the 3.0 litre V6 diesel the crankshaft bearing shells can move and spin
  • 2004 to 2009, 2.7 TDV6: on the 2.7 V6 diesel the timing belt tensioner is mounted on the oil pump casing
  • 2002 to 2020, All: air suspension compressor failure, leaking air struts
  • 2016 to 2019, 2.0 Ingenium diesel (2.0 SD4): a July 2017 Jaguar Land Rover Service Compliance Notification listed 16
  • 1998 to 2004, All: the rear chassis rails rot from the inside out in the section around

Each one is set out in full below, with the symptoms, the typical mileage and a rough repair cost.

Generation 1 of 14 known faults · 22 owner reports · 6 good notes

Land Rover Discovery Series 2 (1998 to 2004) problems

SuspensionHigh severity📝 Editorial

Air suspension compressor failure, leaking air struts, and faulty ride height sensors

Rough guide
£600-1500

Typical symptoms

  • 'Suspension Fault' warning on dash
  • car sitting unevenly or 'slammed' on its bump stops
  • compressor running constantly (loud humming from rear)

Affected vehicles

Engines:
All
Typical mileage:
60000-120000 miles
1 more owner report backs this up
  • January 2017A Discovery 4 experienced repeated air suspension compressor failures, with replacements failing again after 12-18 months.
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Bodywork/ChassisHigh severity🔧 Specialist mechanic

The rear chassis rails rot from the inside out in the section around and above the fuel tank and at the rear crossmember, where mud and salt collect inside the box sections and cannot be seen without getting underneath. It is common enough that off-the-shelf rear quarter chassis replacement sections exist; advanced rot spreading forward of the tank means the vehicle needs a full chassis swap and is usually not economic to save.

Rough guide
£600-4000

Typical symptoms

  • flaking sheets or holes on the underside of the rear chassis rails
  • a hollow plastic sound when the rear rails are tapped
  • welded plates or a visibly newer rear chassis section
  • MOT corrosion failures or advisories at the rear

Affected vehicles

Engines:
All
Typically appears:
15-25 years
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
Engine/EmissionsHigh severity💬 5 owner reports, 2011 to 2019

On the 2.7 V6 diesel the timing belt tensioner is mounted on the oil pump casing. The casing can shear or the tensioner can fail, the timing belt comes off and the engine is wrecked. Owners reported it on a 2006 Discovery 3 with 88,000 miles and a 2007 Range Rover Sport at 60,000 miles, and one was quoted £8,500 to £9,000 for a replacement engine. One owner was told the oil pump on these cars should be upgraded whenever the cam belts are changed.

Typical symptoms

  • rumbling from under the engine followed by loss of power
  • engine stops and will not restart after the belt comes off

Affected vehicles

Engines:
2.7 TDV6
Typical mileage:
60000-88000 miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
BrakesMedium severity💬 3 owner reports, 2012 to 2018

The electromechanical handbrake actuator fails: a clip holding a strong spring sits in a soft plastic shaft, and when it lets go the gears inside are damaged. Brake dust and dirt build-up also stop it working. One owner of a 2005 car paid £1,100 for a new unit, another spent more than £3,000 and it still jammed, once on a steep hill start while towing, and a 30-month-old Discovery 4 suffered the same failure at 28,000 miles.

Rough guide
£1100-3000

Typical symptoms

  • handbrake warning light or message
  • handbrake will not release, or will not apply
  • grinding or whirring from the rear when the brake works

Affected vehicles

Engines:
All
Typical mileage:
28000-190000 miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →

What owners report on the Series 2

22 single reports, unconfirmed

One owner each, in their own words rewritten as a line, and not counted in our risk scoring. A fault joins the list above once a second report or an editorial source backs it.

  • Engine · October 2019A Discovery 3 automatic suffered power loss when its oil pump housing detached, taking the timing belt with it, leading to catastrophic engine failure.
  • Bodywork · September 2019Underslung spare wheels are being stolen from Discovery 3, 4, and 5 models by cutting the winch mechanism, leading to repeat thefts.
  • Engine · April 2019A 2007 Discovery 2.7 TDV6 suffered catastrophic engine failure when the timing belt tensioner sheared off due to an un-upgraded oil pump.
  • Engine · April 2019A 2007 Discovery 2.7 TDV6 experienced catastrophic engine failure after its oil pump snapped the tensioners, despite a pre-purchase inspection.
  • Brakes · December 2018The electromechanical parking brake on a 2005 Discovery 3 repeatedly jammed at 190,000 miles, costing over £3,000 in repairs.
  • Engine · March 2017A 2006 Discovery III 2.7 TDV6 auto repeatedly cut out, losing power steering and assisted braking, but restarted normally each time.
  • Gearbox and clutch · January 2017The automatic transmission of a Discovery 3 failed at 115,000 miles, despite the manufacturer's 150,000-mile oil change schedule.
  • General · September 2015A Discovery 3 experienced numerous expensive and frustrating problems, including engine management and suspension issues, totalling around £5,000.
  • Electrics · May 2015A Discovery 3 experienced sudden alternator failure at approximately 100,000 miles, leaving occupants vulnerable on the road.
  • General · September 2014A Discovery 3 spontaneously combusted and was totally destroyed two days after a dealership health check, preventing forensic examination.
  • Engine · February 2014A 2006 Discovery III 2.7 TDV6 with 88,000 miles suffered engine damage when its timing belt tensioner bearing failed.
  • Fuel system · January 2013The elbow connection between the fuel tank and the filler neck on a Discovery 3 can fracture.
  • Gearbox and clutch · January 2013Automatic transmission judder in Discovery 3 models can be caused by coolant entering the transmission via the heat exchanger.
  • Engine · August 2012A Discovery 3 experienced engine cutting out due to a spasmodic failure of the crankshaft sensor.
  • Brakes · August 2012An electromechanical parking brake failed on a 2005 Discovery, costing £1,100 to replace the unit.
  • Brakes · April 2012The electromechanical parking brake actuator can fail due to a plastic E-clip and shaft allowing spring pressure to damage gears.
  • Interior · February 2012The leather covering on a Discovery 3 steering wheel became unpleasantly soft and sticky, with Land Rover sometimes offering goodwill for replacement.
  • Engine · January 2012EGR valve failures are increasingly reported on the 2.7 TDV6 engine in Discovery 3 models.
  • Engine · December 2011A 2007 2.7 TDV6 engine with 60,000 miles was damaged when the oil pump casing, to which the timing belt tensioner is bolted, sheared off.
  • Suspension and steering · June 2011Discovery 3 models can experience excessive movement in the front lower control arm due to hydraulic bush failure from impacts or fluid leaks.
  • Suspension and steering · June 2011A 2005 Discovery 3 required new front wishbones at 27,000 miles due to play in the rear bushes, costing £800.
  • Gearbox and clutch · April 2011A manual Discovery 3 experienced severe drivetrain problems, including multiple clutch and flywheel changes, and repeated XYZ switch failures.

What owners like about the Series 2

6 notes
  • January 2014The 2.7 TDV6 engine in the Discovery 3 does not feature a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).
  • The Land Rover Discovery 3 is a stylish and highly capable off-road vehicle.
  • The Discovery 3 handles and drives well for a large, tall vehicle, with the V8 version offering significantly more speed.
  • The Discovery 3 achieved a 4-star Euro NCAP rating for adult safety, 1-star for pedestrian safety, and 4-star for child safety.
  • The Discovery 3 can restart while towing 3,500kg on a 12% slope, winning awards for its towing capability.
  • Dual mass flywheel and clutch failures on Discovery 3 models are being fixed under warranty, even for vehicles used for towing.
Other years2 known faults · 31 owner reports · 12 good notes

Other Land Rover Discovery years: problems

Engine/EmissionsHigh severity💬 7 owner reports, 2016 to 2019

On the 3.0 litre V6 diesel the crankshaft bearing shells can move and spin, starving the bearings of oil, after which the crankshaft can snap and the engine is ruined. It has hit cars from 19,000 miles upwards, often with full dealer history and no warning light. A 2014 manufacturer bulletin covered 2009 to 2012 Discovery 4s and suggested that a design change followed in 2012, but owners of 2015 cars still reported failures. A 2011 car's replacement engine cost its owner over £16,000, and others were quoted £12,000 to £22,250.

Rough guide
£16000 (one owner paid more than this)

Typical symptoms

  • knocking from the engine's bottom end
  • sudden loss of oil pressure or engine seizure while driving
  • often no warning light before the failure

Affected vehicles

Engines:
3.0 TDV6 / 3.0 SDV6
Typical mileage:
19000-75000 miles
7 more owner reports back this up
  • June 2019A Discovery 4 V6 engine suffered crankshaft bearing failure, where the bearings spun and caused the crankshaft to snap.
  • April 2018A 2015 Discovery 4 V6 engine suffered crankshaft failure at 22,000 miles while towing, and was replaced under warranty.
  • September 2017A 2011 Discovery 4 suffered crankshaft failure at 55,000 miles, with a replacement engine costing over £16,000 due to independent servicing.
  • July 2017A 2015 Discovery 4 crankshaft failed at 19,000 miles, leading to a complete engine replacement under warranty.
  • April 2017A 2014 Discovery 4 3.0 TDV6 experienced catastrophic engine failure at 30 months old.
  • April 2017A 2014 Discovery 4 3.0 TDV6 suffered catastrophic engine failure and was replaced under warranty.
  • December 2016A 2010 Discovery 4 with 59,400 miles suffered catastrophic engine failure due to crankshaft bearing shell movement and oil starvation.
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Engine/EmissionsHigh severity📝 Editorial

A July 2017 Jaguar Land Rover Service Compliance Notification listed 16 and 17 model-year Range Rover Sport and Discovery 2.0 Ingenium diesels among the cars whose engine oil was being diluted by diesel early, because the DPF was running more regeneration cycles than expected. JLR put it down to hardware and architecture differences that had apparently not been dealt with when the engine went from its Jaguar saloons into Land Rover SUVs. When a regeneration is cut short, unburnt fuel runs into the sump, the oil needs changing ahead of schedule, and on the Ingenium diluted oil is what wears the timing chain early.

Rough guide
£Unknown

Typical symptoms

  • oil service warning coming on thousands of miles early
  • DPF warning lights appearing often, sometimes with power restricted
  • chain rattle when started from cold

Affected vehicles

Engines:
2.0 Ingenium diesel (2.0 SD4)
Typical mileage:
Unknown miles
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What owners report

31 single reports, unconfirmed

One owner each, in their own words rewritten as a line, and not counted in our risk scoring. A fault joins the list above once a second report or an editorial source backs it.

  • Electrics · January 2020A December 2015 Discovery 4 had a persistent low battery warning, even after a new battery and long drives.
  • Electrics · January 2020A 2017 Discovery 5 alarm repeatedly activated due to a windscreen leak causing water in the footwells and battery shorting.
  • Bodywork · September 2019Underslung spare wheels are being stolen from Discovery models by thieves cutting the winch mechanism, leading to repeat thefts.
  • Engine · August 2019A 2017 Discovery 5 with 47,000 miles repeatedly stalled in reverse and drive, despite turbo and crankshaft replacements.
  • Electrics · July 2019The Auto Stop/Start function on a June 2017 Discovery 2.0-litre Diesel stopped working unless the air conditioning and heating were switched off.
  • Bodywork · May 2019The underslung spare wheel of a 2017 Discovery 5 was stolen in 2018, costing £1000; it was stolen again despite an anti-theft modification, costing a further £1000.
  • Engine · March 2019A 2018 Discovery 5 experienced V6 diesel engine failure on the M6 in February 2019; the engine was replaced under warranty.
  • Engine · January 2019A March 2017 Discovery 4 required four oil changes within 16,000 miles.
  • Engine · December 2018A 2012 Discovery 4 SDV6 recently needed both MAF sensors, both inlet manifolds, both bottom arms, and a cam belt replaced.
  • Engine · December 2018A 2010 Discovery 4 experienced a second oil pump failure, which resulted in the engine needing replacement.
  • Engine · October 2018A 2013 Discovery 4 experienced major engine failure, found during a routine service, with no prior warning lights appearing.
  • Bodywork · August 2018The underslung spare wheel was stolen from a new Discovery 5 before a security device could be fitted, resulting in a £774 bill.
  • Engine · June 2018A 2015 Discovery 4 V6 engine failed at 27,000 miles, just seven weeks out of warranty, despite a full service history.
  • Engine · April 2018A 2015 Discovery 4 V6 engine failed 24 days outside warranty, despite full service history, with a replacement costing £12,600 after goodwill.
  • General · March 2018A Land Rover Discovery 4, used by a Traffic Officer, caught fire on the M62 motorway during a snowstorm.
  • Engine · November 2017A 2012 Discovery 4 engine failed at 82,000 miles with a bad knock and oil leak, requiring a new engine costing £17,000.
  • Electrics · November 2017A 2012 Discovery 4 needed a new crankshaft sensor after gearbox problems and stalling, and its air suspension was not working correctly.
  • Engine · November 2017The oil level sensor in a Discovery 4 engine failed, making it impossible to check the oil level without draining the sump.
  • Brakes · September 2017A Discovery owner cut a finger on the sharp edge of a brake disc back plate while cleaning the front wheels.
  • Engine · September 2017Certain 2.0L Ingenium and 3.0V6 diesel Discovery models suffer premature engine oil dilution due to frequent DPF regeneration cycles.
  • Engine · July 2017A 2012 Discovery 4 engine seized, requiring replacement at a cost of £14,196.62 plus VAT, with Land Rover offering 40% goodwill.
  • Cooling · March 2017A 2010 Discovery 4 suffered damage to engine bay components when its water pump central pulley shaft broke off.
  • Brakes · October 2016Severe vibration in a Discovery 4 was traced to seized self-adjusting parking brake levers and worn shoes, requiring replacement of rear components.
  • Engine · May 2016A 2011 Discovery 4 3.0 V6 diesel experienced two engine failures, first at 35,000 miles and again at 50,000 miles.
  • Engine · August 2015A 2009 Discovery 4 with 75,000 miles experienced persistent engine and transmission problems after being bought used.
  • Brakes · October 2013Excessive wear on the parking brakes of a 12-month-old Discovery 4 led to the rear discs and pads being replaced under warranty.
  • Brakes · June 2013A 30-month-old Discovery 4 HSE with 28,000 miles experienced the same electromechanical parking brake failure as Discovery 3 models.
  • Engine · September 2012A 2010 Discovery 4 HSE suffered three consecutive turbo failures, with the third leading to replacement of oil feed pipes.
  • Electrics · April 2012The satnav routing on a Discovery 4 was reported to go astray.
  • Engine · April 2011Reports from Australia indicated a defective batch of turbos exposed a design flaw in the Discovery 4 3.0 V6 diesel engine.
  • Electrics · February 2011A Discovery 4 experienced a loss of power, entering limp mode, and displayed transmission warning light issues.

What owners like

12 notes
  • The Land Rover Discovery 4 is recognised as a highly capable vehicle for off-road driving conditions.
  • The Discovery 4 is equipped with a commendable 3.0-litre TDV6 engine, offering good performance.
  • The Discovery 4 provides an excellent combination of strong performance and refined driving characteristics.
  • The Discovery 4 earned two awards at the Caravan Club's Towcar of the Year Awards in 2010, including 'Best Towcar Over £32,000'.
  • The Land Rover Discovery 4 was named Britain's Best Towcar in 2010, praised for its 3500kg towing capacity.
  • The Discovery 3.0 SDV6 XS was named Towcar of the Year by Practical Caravan and 'What Car' in the Over 1,900kg category.
  • The Discovery 4 achieved an excellent third place in the 2011 Which Customer Satisfaction Survey.
  • The Discovery 4 was a class winner in the annual Towcar of the Year Awards.
  • This model achieved a five-star Euro NCAP rating, with strong scores for adult, child, and pedestrian safety, plus safety assist.
  • The car offers exceptional comfort, making it an excellent choice for long-distance journeys and extended driving periods.
  • The 2.0-litre diesel engine provides surprisingly good performance for a vehicle of this size and weight.
  • All rear seats can be electrically folded and raised, a convenient feature included as standard across all models.

Sellers rarely admit these faults outright

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Land Rover Discovery recalls

Recall work is done by the manufacturer, and GOV.UK says you will not usually have to pay for it. These are the 32 DVSA recalls for the Discovery, newest first. They do not tell you whether this particular car has had the work: for that, put the registration into the free GOV.UK MOT history check, which shows a recall status where the manufacturer shares it, or ask a franchised dealer to check the VIN.

🏛️ June 2026Cars built July 2024 to April 2026

AJ20-D6 Idler Pulley Clash

A concern has been identified on certain AJ20-D6 engines where the Front End Auxiliary Drive (FEAD) belt idler pulley may over-rotate following a high torsion input and lead to a clash with and damage to the oil pressure and temperature sensor. A damaged oil pressure and temperature sensor can lead to an oil leak from the engine which can result in a slip hazard for following road users particularly two-wheeled vehicles.

Put right by: Vehicles will have the Front-End Auxiliary Drive (FEAD) idler pulley replaced.

DVSA R/2026/24111,526 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ June 2026Cars built July 2020 to June 2026

Driver's Airbag Potential Non-Deployment

A concern has been identified where the connector to the driver's airbag at the clockspring may experience fretting corrosion over time. This can lead to an increased resistance in the driver's airbag circuit potentially resulting in the airbag failing to deploy when requested to do so. An airbag which fails to deploy as-intended will increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

Put right by: Vehicles will have a protective lubricant gel applied to the driver's airbag connector terminals.

DVSA R/2026/24527,858 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ June 2026Cars built January 2026 to January 2026

Defender and Discovery 2026 Model Year Fuel Tank Wall Thickness

A concern has been identified where the fuel tank wall thickness may be below design specification near the inlet check valve. A fuel tank with a thinner-than-designed wall may not perform adequately in the event of a crash leading to increased risk of fuel spillage and potentially fire.

Put right by: Affected vehicles will have the fuel tank replaced.

DVSA R/2026/17716 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ June 2025Cars built May 2004 to September 2016

Discovery (L319) and Range Rover Sport (L320) Tow Ball Detachment

The manufacturer has determined that in affected vehicles the instructions provided on the method of use of detachable tow balls does not adequately warn of a non-obvious risk which could lead to a failure of the tow ball mechanism causing in-use detachment of the tow ball and trailer detachment.

Put right by: Customers will be provided with an additional retaining bracket to fit to the vehicle when using the detachable tow ball together with full installation instructions.

DVSA R/2024/326109,574 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ May 2025Cars built June 2013 to May 2015

Security Guidance

Jaguar Land Rover in conjunction with law enforcement and insurance bodies is aware of the increase in thefts of vehicles in specific geographical locations within the United Kingdom. there is no fault with Jaguar Land Rover's security systems and they continue to meet stringent automotive legislation. Jaguar Land Rover is offering owners guidance on how to maximise vehicle security and protect against theft.

Put right by: Vehicle registered keepers will be sent a security guidance letter only - there is no repair action.

DVSA R/2025/1498,807 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ January 2025Cars built January 2015 to November 2017

Security Enhancement

For affected vehicles the manufacturer has developed a software enhancement to further increase vehicle security.

Put right by: The software enhancement will deploy this update and reduce the theft risk.

DVSA R/2024/14627,095 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ June 2024Cars built April 2021 to January 2024

AJ20-D6 and AJ20-P6 Engine Oil Filter Housing Cracked

On affected vehicles the incorrect specification of plastic was used to manufacture the oil filter housing. This housing may over time and with vehicle use crack. This could result in oil under pressure leaking and coming into contact with hot components of the engine which may result in a fire. Additionally oil may leak onto the road surface posing a skid hazard.

Put right by: Replace the oil filter housing complete with filter and associated O-rings.

DVSA R/2024/255263 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ March 2024Cars built September 2020 to January 2022

Security Enhancement

For affected vehicles the manufacturer has developed a software enhancement to further increase vehicle security.

Put right by: The software enhancement will deploy this update and reduce the theft risk.

DVSA R/2024/1455,105 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ May 2023Cars built August 2022 to January 2023

For certain 2023 Model Year 3.0L AJ20-P6 Land Rover Range Rover Range Rover Sport Range Rover Velar Discovery and Defender vehicles a small number of engines the cam carrier oil gallery hasn t been fully drilled. As a result the oil channel could be blocked leading to accumulation of oil against the pressure control valve rubber membrane and subsequently an external oil leak or increased oil carryover into the air intake system.

For certain 2023 Model Year 3.0L AJ20-P6 Land Rover Range Rover Range Rover Sport Range Rover Velar Discovery and Defender vehicles a small number of engines the cam carrier oil gallery hasnt been fully drilled. As a result the oil channel could be blocked leading to accumulation of oil against the pressure control valve rubber membrane and subsequently an external oil leak or increased oil carryover into the air intake system.

Put right by: The engine cam carrier will be inspected and where an incorrectly machined cam carrier is found replace it with a correctly machined component. Depending on mileage and engine conditions further associated components may require replacement.

DVSA R/2023/044499 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ August 2022Cars built December 2021 to May 2022

Damaged front seat belt pre tensioner tube may have been installed on the seat belt retractor

Damaged front seat belt pretensioner tube may have been installed on the seat belt retractor.

Put right by: Inspect the seat belt pretensioner tube for damage and if damage is identified the seat belt retractor will be replaced.

DVSA R/2022/2222,981 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ March 2022Cars built October 2018 to June 2019

The fuel feed hose assembly may have been incorrectly routed

The rubberised low-pressure fuel feed hose assembly may have been incorrectly routed during manufacture

Put right by: Inspect the low-pressure fuel feed hose assembly and if misrouted replace the assembly.

DVSA R/2021/436668 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ October 2021Cars built July 2020 to August 2021

Front passenger seats missing occupancy detection sensor system

The front passenger seats were manufactured without the Occupancy Detection Sensor system (ODS) installed.

Put right by: Fit the occupant detection sensor to the front passenger seat.

DVSA R/2021/333509 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ June 2021Cars built November 2019 to March 2021

Due to insufficient contact of the battery earth stud to the chassis the vehicle may exhibit various electrical faults

Due to insufficient contact of the battery earth stud to the chassis the vehicle may exhibit various electrical faults.

Put right by: Replace the earth stud with a bespoke aftermarket specification part.

DVSA R/2021/2293,323 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ April 2021Cars built November 2020 to March 2021

The fixings connecting the exhaust downpipe to the catalytic converter may not have been tightened to the specified torque value

The fixings connecting the exhaust downpipe to the catalytic converter may not have been tightened to the specified torque value.

Put right by: Inspect the exhaust downpipe to catalytic converter joint. If the fixings are present torque them up to the required torque specification. If any fixings are missing they will be replaced and torqued to the required specification.

DVSA R/2021/1374,002 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ January 2021Cars built September 2020 to October 2020

The fixing for the left hand side (lhs) 3rd row seat belt upper anchorage may not be installed to the required specification.

The fixing for the left hand side (LHS) 3rd Row Seat Belt upper anchorage may not be installed to the required specification.

Put right by: Inspect the rear (3rd row) seat belt anchorage fixing and the rear trim and replace the fixing if necessary.

DVSA R/2020/378115 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ January 2021Cars built September 2018 to August 2020

Insufficient contact of the battery earth stud to the chassis

Insufficient contact of the battery earth stud to the chassis.

Put right by: Replace the earth stud with a modified part.

DVSA R/2020/32410,040 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ February 2020Cars built September 2019 to December 2019

Some of the fixings of the second row seat frame assembly may be missing

Second row seat fixings missing

Put right by: Replace the second row seat frame and ensure the fixings are tightened correctly

DVSA R/2020/02710 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ April 2019Cars built March 2015 to July 2018

Vehicles failed to routinely achieve the required levels of CO2 emissions

Vehicles failed to routinely achieve the required levels of CO2 emissions.

Put right by: Update the vehicle software to the latest version.

DVSA R/2019/0494,779 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ January 2019Cars built October 2018 to December 2018

Crankshaft pulley retaining bolt may fracture

The crankshaft pulley retaining bolt may fracture due to a production specification error.

Put right by: Replace the crankshaft pulley centre retaining bolt with one that has been manufactured to the correct specification.

DVSA R/2019/013219 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ September 2018Cars built November 2017 to March 2018

Autonomous emergency braking feature will not be available

Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) feature will not be available.

Put right by: On affected vehicles download the latest software to the vehicle.

DVSA R/2018/24324 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ March 2018Cars built May 2016 to January 2018

Fuel may leak

The brazing of the fuel rail end caps is inconsistent and may not correctly seal the fuel rail ends. Fuel vapour and liquid fuel leaks can occur over time. This can lead to a liquid fuel leak into the engine bay.

Put right by: On affected vehicles replace the fuel rail with a correctly manufactured version.

DVSA R/2018/0361,537 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ May 2017Cars built February 2017 to March 2017

Fuel hose may leak

The fuel return hose may leak. Increased fuel odour may be noticed and drivers may also observe liquid fuel puddles underneath the vehicle. It is possible that fuel may leak onto the road surface which can present a skid hazard to other road users increasing the risk of a crash. Should leaking fuel come into contact with a sufficiently hot surface in the engine bay there will be an increased risk of fire.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the fuel return hose.

DVSA R/2017/145836 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ January 2017Cars built July 2016 to October 2016

Electrical short circuit

It has been identified that the engine wiring harness of the 2.0ltr engined vehicles fitted with automatic transmission may have been incorrectly routed which may allow the wiring harness to contact the water charge air cooler bracket. Engine vibration can cause a chaffing condition where the outer sheathing of the cable can wear through and expose the wires of the engine harness. Depending on the orientation of the wires within the harness then damage to wires can result in electrical arcing and a short circuit. This condition can also result in the illumination of a warning light on the instrument panel loss of the electronic steering system engine cut out without warning melting of the cable sheathing and surrounding parts. Also in extreme circumstances it can cause an under-bonnet fire.

Put right by: All affected vehicles will be recalled to inspect the clearance between the engine harness and water charge air cooler bracket. If the clearance is not to the correct specification the wiring harness will be repositioned and secured to ensure the specified clearance is achieved. If the engine harness shows signs of chafing the engine harness will be repaired re-positioned to ensure the correct specification.

DVSA R/2016/2894,964 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ December 2016Cars built March 2016 to August 2016

Steering control may be compromised

It has been identified that clamp bolt of the front lower control arm to knuckle fixing may have been incorrectly torqued/tighten this can cause a premature fatigue failure and possible separation of the joint. The driver will receive a warning in the form of noise a ABS warning light on the vehicles instrument panel or the misalignment steering wheel. In addition this is an early life failure. However if the driver does not heed the warning signs then the control the vehicle can be effected which can lead to an increased risk of a crash.

Put right by: Recall all affected vehicles to replace the affected front lower control arm to knuckle fixing and apply the correct torque. Some vehicles require recall remedy actions to one side only others to both sides of the vehicle.

DVSA R/2016/290343 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ December 2016Cars built July 2016 to October 2016

Front passenger airbag may not deploy

It has been identified by the air-bag manufacturer that the air-bag initiator generant mix ratio does not meet specification. This can therefore result in the initiator not functioning correctly which can lead to non-deployment of the air-bag. Should a collision occur then there is an increased risk of injury to the passenger.

Put right by: Recall all affected vehicles to replace the air-bag with a new quality assured component.

DVSA R/2016/307452 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ June 2016Cars built April 2013 to May 2014

Engine may cut out

An incorrectly manufactured crank position sensor may cause the engine to unexpectedly cut out or not to start.

Put right by: On recalled vehicles the engine serial number will be checked and if within the affected range the crank position sensor will be replaced.

DVSA R/2016/09811,290 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ June 2016Cars built May 2016 to May 2016

Airbag may deploy incorrectly

Due to a nonconformity of production the driver's air bag may not deploy correctly and may not provide protection as intended.

Put right by: On affected vehicles replace driver's air bag

DVSA R/2016/13281 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ June 2016Cars built August 2014 to January 2016

Rcs system unable to detect and mitigate potential vehicle roll over

The software for the RSC is not to the correct specification and is unable to detect and mitigate a potential vehicle roll over condition. All other Stability Control Systems including Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) continue to function correctly.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and update the vehicle with the latest software.

DVSA R/2016/1079 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ December 2015Cars built July 2015 to October 2015

Vehicle may cut out

An engine harness may not have been routed correctly during assembly. This may chafe and cause engine malfunction. In extreme cases the engine may cut out.

Put right by: On affected vehicles inspect harness and repair as necessary. Fit new bracket and secure harness.

DVSA R/2015/2359,252 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ July 2015Cars built August 2012 to September 2012

Panoramic roof may detach

The panoramic roof adhesive and primer used in the assembly bonding of the panoramic roof glass panel may not have been to the correct specification. If the concern occurs there will initially be wind noise when driving or parked and on closing a door the panoramic roof might be seen to lift. If the concern is not rectified the panoramic roof could detach from the vehicle when it is in motion causing risk of collision/injury to other road users.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and apply the correct primer and adhesive to the panoramic roof assembly.

DVSA R/2015/118833 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ May 2015Cars built August 2014 to March 2015

Dynamic stability control may not function correctly

As a result of the ABS system self check software not being installed correctlyYaw Stability Control (YSC) Electronic Traction Control (ETC) and Gradient Release Controlsystems may become disabled. The air suspension goes into Safe Mode lowering to its lowest setting. An Amber warning indicator illuminates warning the driver.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and download the latest level of software.

DVSA R/2015/0826,412 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ April 2015Cars built January 2015 to January 2015

Wheel nuts may detach

On affected vehicles the road wheel nuts may not have been manufactured to the correct specification. These wheel nuts may crackwhen subject to shock loads and detach from the stud. This may lead to insecurity and possible detachment of a road wheel.

Put right by: Recall affected vehicles and replace wheel nuts. Locking wheel nuts are not affected.

DVSA R/2015/036926 vehicles affected in the UK

Recall data published by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency under the Open Government Licence v3.0. A recall listed here may not apply to every car of this model: the build dates and the registration check are what decide it.

Land Rover Discovery cambelt, and service intervals

An overdue cambelt is the most expensive thing a seller can fail to mention on a used Discovery. These are the figures UK specialists work to.

Timing belt (cambelt)Belt
3.0 TDV6, 3.0 SDV6, SDV6, 3.0 V6 DIESEL
112,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first

3.0 V6 diesel (Discovery 4 and 5, Range Rover Sport from 2009). The timing belt is due every 7 years or 112,000 miles, whichever comes first. There is a second belt at the rear driving the high-pressure fuel pump; replace both together. It is an interference engine, so a belt failure wrecks it.

Timing belt (cambelt)Belt
2.7 TDV6, TDV6 2.7, 2.7 V6 DIESEL
105,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first

2.7 V6 diesel (Discovery 3 2004 to 2009, Range Rover Sport 2005 to 2009). Specialists quote the timing belt at 105,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first, with the rear fuel pump belt done at the same time. The belt tensioner is bolted to the oil pump casing, and owners have lost engines at 60,000 and 88,000 miles when the casing sheared or the tensioner failed, so renew the tensioner and pulleys with the belts and ask about the upgraded oil pump. It is an interference engine.

Always confirm against the vehicle handbook. Intervals vary by engine, and several manufacturers revised theirs after failures in service.

Repair costs are typical UK ranges, not quotes. Actual cost depends on condition and garage.Data last verified: October 2026

Land Rover Discovery buying questions

What are the most common Land Rover Discovery problems?

Three stand out. Engine: on the 3.0 litre V6 diesel the crankshaft bearing shells can move and spin (typically 19000 to 75000 miles). Engine: on the 2.7 V6 diesel the timing belt tensioner is mounted on the oil pump casing (typically 60000 to 88000 miles). Suspension: air suspension compressor failure, leaking air struts, and faulty ride height sensors (typically 60000 to 120000 miles). The full list above is grouped by generation, with typical mileage and a rough repair cost for each.

Which Land Rover Discovery years should I avoid?

No Land Rover Discovery year is a write-off, but the Series 2 (1998 to 2004) carries the most serious faults: engine, suspension and bodywork. Year matters less than whether the specific car has had the known fixes, so check the history for them.

What should I check when viewing a used Land Rover Discovery?

Ask the seller about the engine and suspension faults on this page and whether they have been fixed, with invoices. On the test drive watch for knocking from the engine's bottom end, rumbling from under the engine followed by loss of power and 'Suspension Fault' warning on dash. Read the MOT history for repeat advisories, then paste the advert into the free check, which reads it against all 6 known faults before you travel. Check a Land Rover Discovery advert →

Are there any recalls on the Land Rover Discovery?

The DVSA lists 32 safety recalls for the Land Rover Discovery issued between 2015 and 2026. The most recent, from June 2026, is "AJ20-D6 Idler Pulley Clash". Recall work is done by the manufacturer, and GOV.UK says you will not usually have to pay for it. This list is by model, so it cannot tell you whether one particular car has had the work: the free GOV.UK MOT history check shows a recall status from the registration where the manufacturer shares it, and a franchised dealer can check the VIN.

What is the real MPG of a Land Rover Discovery?

Owners report 30.6 mpg on average across the Land Rover Discovery engines with data, about 81% of the official combined figure. The gap between official and real-world economy varies a lot by engine, so the Real MPG page lists every engine and generation separately, from 107 owner submissions. Land Rover Discovery Real MPG by engine →

Looking at a Land Rover Discovery right now? Check the advert before you go and see it.

Where this Land Rover Discovery fault data comes from

If you used to check the Honest John “Good & Bad” section before the site closed in 2026, this page is where that information now lives. We rebuilt the Land Rover Discovery owner-report history from the archived Honest John dataset, added our own research, specialist and owner-club sources and DVSA recall data, and we keep it free. Each fault above is badged with its source. The same data feeds our free advert check, which reads a listing against every known fault for the exact engine and year.

CarAdCheck is not affiliated with Honest John or Volkswagen Financial Services. What happened to Honest John, and where each feature lives now.

Before you go and see it

Knowing what a Land Rover Discovery goes wrong with is half of it. The rest is reading the advert and checking the car's history before you hand any money over.

How to haggle for a used car: negotiate the price with what its records show13 min readHPI check vs carVertical: which is better, and our pick for a UK car9 min readMOT advisories explained: how to check them, and which ones should worry you12 min read
All buyer's guides →

Other Land Rover models

Discovery Sport9 known faultsRange Rover Evoque7 known faultsDefender6 known faultsRange Rover Sport4 known faults