Blogger takes on Land Rover, aggressively

We have a Freelander and are fighting rignt now to get rid of it! We feel it is a dangerous vehicle to be driving in. There isn't anyone willing to help you, Land Rover or Bill Jacobs Of Naperville, (Il.) dealership who claims they have no responsibility with our car. The response is always "we will fix the problems" which hasn't been very successful in our case.
We will NOT stop fighting, we are so tired of giving in to these people.

having same problems now with my LR3 nothing but problems and broken promises fromdealer, the truck is not even a year old

Problem with all the new land rovers that they are not reliable cars. Unlike the old landrovers, that were built to off road use, the new SUVs suffer from bad image.

I 'll sum it up quickly-

this just happened this Monday

I purchased a new 2004 Freelander in February 2004. I have serviced my vehicle at the required intervals with Land Rover. At 48,500 miles, my truck started to overheat. I took it to my local mechanic who looked it over and was puzzled. He couldn't see where the coolant had gone and suggested I bring the car to my local Land Rover dealer in New Rochelle. I had the car towed to Land Rover and the technicians there fixed the so-called ‘problems’. The technicians informed me that a cracked reservoir and a malfunctioning fan were found. 5,000 miles later (now that the warranty had expired) the car begins to overheat. I went ahead and had the thermostat replaced by my local mechanic with a Land Rover Thermostat (where was I to tow my car at 9 PM?) , 2 weeks later it overheated again. I took it the dealership once again. They told me that coolant had leaked into the engine and that I needed a new engine. 6,800 dollars. A 3 year old car needs a new engine?
I’ve been notified by Carolyn at Land Rover North America that they will not compensate any of the money because the car is out of warranty. I also spoke with Jeff Brown at Land Rover New Rochelle and he also said there’s nothing he can do( he was at his limit with “Goodwill” money. He also stated that I was offered an extended warranty which I declined. I would have never imagined an engine would be compromised so early.
This is not the first time this has happened with the Freelander. A business associate of mine leased a 2003 Freelander from Land Rover Paramus and at 48,000 miles the same exact thing happened. There’s an apparent problem with the head gasket with the Freelander.
I believe I should not be held responsible for a defective engine and that the manufacturer should be totally responsible. I would appreciate any assistance concerning this matter.

I have a 2003 Range, and it has had nothing but problems, the biggest ones right after it reached 50,0000! The front differential went at 42,000 and 52,000, and the trans at 56,000. Land Rover made me pay for the second installation of the differential, and wouldn't help at all with the trans! The Paramus Dealership has been NO help in dealing with Range Rover USA, and the dealership in Tucson wouldn't have my truck inspected for the extended warrantee because it had over 49,000 miles on it. (Paramus had my signature and credit card). Dealing with Land Rover USA has been a consumer's nightmare, with rude, self-serving, and extremely dim customer service people, unbelievably using every excuse NOT TO BE responsible for major flaws in their vehicles. I could really kick myself for paying so much for so little. Pure crap nicely packaged! Never again!!!!

OMG!!!! i have the same issues with landrover NY

What recourse do i have????

all problems, 100% i think i have a major Lemon and they wont help me at all!!!!

Land Rover is all too aware of this issue on the Freelander (see the LR company bulletin distributed on 6-18-2004 in the links below). Anecdotally the coolant/head gasket/overheating problem requiring a new engine seems to occur most often between 50K and 65K miles and around 3 years old...hence a 50K warranty, they know this engine will fail by 65K. Please contact if you hear of a product liability class action suit out of this and if not anyone want to start one?

BTW, Mine is a 2004, 65K miles, same issue.

http://www.freelanderheadgasket.co.uk/
http://home.austarnet.com.au/edwardsonline/freelanderheadgasket/

MOST HEAD GASKET FAILURES ARE BOUGHT ABOUT BY THERMOSTAT FAILURES PART NUMBER PEM101130.CAUSING THE ENGINES TO RUN TO HOT.I HAVE FITTED THREE OF THESE IN THE PAST TWO YEARS THE THIRD ONE HAS JUST STARTED TO CAUSE INTERMITTENT OVER HEATING THE PROBLEM IS YOU NEVER NO WHEN ITS GOING TO FAIL TO OPEN.RESULTING WITH THE ENGINE SUDDENLY BOILING.

I guess I should feel lucky. My 2003 Freelander made it to 103K miles. At 99+, on mt $1,600, 100K warranty, I took it to the dealer for a coolant leak, they claim to have fixed it, and at 103K I need a new engine. There seems to be a common thread here.

Now I know I'm not alone.I have always sworn by my Rover's, I've had more than two. But this 2004 Discovery SE...just passed 50K..and the differencial went...I am waiting to hear from Land Rover about the problem. All maint was to date. And it was explained to me that there was oil in the diff, so a gear just went. Historically in any car you may have an engine or a trans go after about 7-10 years....My BMW has 300k and same eng & trans....not to mention Diff....so..I feel something is WRONG with these trucks...and I'm mad as hell...we shouldn't have to take this anymore.....I paid for quality....not for a throw away truck....

My Rover has been in the dealership for 30 days now. It is under the extended warranty but it is not helping me. We need a class action lawsuit. In fact, I am going to see my lawyer tomorrow @ 3:00 p.m. We have been charged so much for inadequate service, which is not acceptable.

I just got a call from LR Mt. Kisco and the same thing happens, they said they need to change the transmission (cost $5000+) because of a leak.. etc. My truck has only 40,000+ miles! I wonder what we could do, it's so frustrating.

My sister has the same problem. Her 2003 Freelander has 52,600 miles and is over warranty by 2,600 miles. Land rover is refusing to extend the warranty becuase she is over. If someone's filing a class action, we'd like to be part of it. I'm suggesting that she take this to her attorney ASAP.

As others here, I only wish I had seen this before buying a Freelander, let alone continuing to own it after 50,000 miles. Like clockwork, 58,000 miles -- blown engine. Coolant leaking into engine, etc. Sound familiar? I too would like to learn how to get on class action list.

I own a 2003 Freelander and currently am pursuing a claim against Landrover b/c after several repair visits to the dealer they replaced my engine. The problem was that the coolant was just disappearing and they repaired everything (expansion tank, thermostat, head gaskets) b4 replacing the engine. I was wondering if there was anyone else out there with the same coolant issues???? Trying to back up my case with LandRover if we can't settle out of court. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

I just purchased a 2003 Freelander on April 30th with 38k miles. A week later,it overheated. I observed the problem for a couple of weeks before taking it in. I had to replace the coolant about every 5 days because that coolant level could not be maintained.I could not locate any leakage onto the pavement after being parked. I took it back to dealer and they "could not find a leak" Please post class action info,I wish I would have known about these issues beforehand.Who should have to buy a new motor so soon, and that's what seems to be happening.I would not have purchased a Land Rover.Please help.

I bought my daughter a 2002 Land Rover Freelander as a college graduation present. Talk about getting the booby prize. Total disaster. All the same issues mentioned above. 2 new engines, 2 new fuel systems, new transmission, new intake manifold, etc... We traded out of it and took a terrible loss. Car was in Manhattan Land Rover for 62 days. Please contact me if you are interested in a class-action suit.

My 2002 Freelander had similar problems starting with the engine running for an extended period after the car was turned off. At first, the gauge showed a normal temperature and the coolant overflow tank was partially filled. Closly watching this condition for a few days, I then called the LR dealer.He advised that it was rather normal and to watch it but since the gauge showed a normal temp not to worry. Soon afterward the overflow tank begain to have less and less coolant. Coolant is not readily available in our town so I used drinking water and drove to the nearest LR dealer. The car was checked out and I was presented with an estimate for over $6000 of repairs needed which included a new cooling system. Parts were not on hand so I was told it was ok to drive home but keep the water bottle handy. Four days later the garage floor was flooded. I had the car trucked back to the dealer and they told me that the block had cracked. They want $16000 for a new engine. 51000 miles. By the way, we live in Mexico but the prices are in US Dollars.

Considering all our testimony above and on other web sites I've seen this week from all around the globe, IS ANYONE READY FOR A CLASS ACTION SUIT ?

Purchased my 2003 Discovery II from Mt.Kisco/Bedford in New York brand new. Car was maintained to the letter according to their preventative maintenance schedule. long story short....3 gasket fails...3 window failures....2 headlight failures...thermostat failed....coolant pump failed.....engine overheated and resulted in slipped sleeve. Engine is now failing at 71K. Repeated attempts to contact Land Rover in the US and abroad had little to no resolve. Land Rover needs to step up to the plate and fix the issue with their poor product. As it stands, Land Rover is now officially the number one retailer for recalls and manufacturer related fails.

Discovery II - 2002 - Just less than 100K, on way back to dealer as they had not reset dash lights, no oil pressure! They had just replaced the oil! Now they are saying you really need a NEW ENGINE! They have no idea what caused this.

I have suffered. On 12.31.01 drove out of the LR San Juan dealership with a brand new 2002 Freelander SE. At the 5+ year mark my car has been in the LR shop about 22+ times. Coolant leaks from the first day I drove her. Sunroof replaced, electric door locks replaced, radio replaced, squeaking seat fixed, brake jobs every 6 month's, etc.. Now at 70kmiles my diaplay says F4 as my transmission jumps from 3rd to 4th. The fault continues with the Traction Control lamp and a steady noise from under the car. Freelander was, is and continues to be a automotive disaster.

I purchased my 2002 Freelander three years ago gently used. It now has 83,000 miles on it. In the first year of ownership the transmission and shifting cable failed. Luckily, my warranty was still in effect. If not, repairs would have been well over twenty six hundred dollars. Early in my ownership I was driving in Wyoming, of all places, and I hit a bump and my car stalled. It turned out that my stereo was jostled and caused electrical failure. Hmmm, electrical failure from a bumpy road, quality craftsmanship at its best. Last years failures include, replacement of the coolant reservoir, which has led to the current problem. I took the vehicle in to be looked at because of a coolant leak I had mentioned that I believed the problem to be the water pump, an hour later I got a phone call that that was definitely the problem and promptly ordered a genuine land rover water pump. Come to find out that was not the problem, and I am now the proud owner of a useless water pump. Could they possibly take it back and help me out, of course not its mine to keep. Turns out the problem was the thermostat housing, which was blown completely into two pieces. It has been entirely replaced, and the lovely 2002 Freelander will still not start. Now I have to take it back to the dealer for a few thousand dollars of repairs. Seems that I or any other land rover owner should never have to endure such problems on a "new" "luxury" automobile. I thought that land rover was a reputable, quality brand when I purchased my vehicle they managed to prove me wrong. Please contact me if any class action suit is pursued or already in progress. jb_shafer@yahoo.com. Contact me, please. Isn't there a lawyer out there that owns a piece of shit like mine? Come on guys, let's unite, take the bitches down!!!!

Oh my goodness, this is insane that so many of us have the same problem, and LR are doing nothing about it - please count me in for the case action, I'm ready when you are! Forgive my typos here, I'm ticked off beyond belief with LR North America right now. I have a 2003 Freelander purchased new in Jan 2004. I too did NOT get the extended warranty since I figured it's a new car, and obviously didn't think I would be talking about engine replacements three years into owning the vehicle. I have about 70K mile - mostly highway miles from MA to NJ. It's currently at Land Rover Peabody in MA since it stalled on my while driving to work the other day. The number 3 cylinder was dead, something to do with the computer shorting internally, but they couldn't find figure out why or how it was affecting the cylinder - thought perhaps the computer chip was faulty, but didn't know for sure. That repair is $1300 - $700 for the computer, the rest in diagnostic and labour costs - for something that they are not yet sure will fix the problem of the car stalling. BTW, this is the 2nd time that something weird happend to the cylinders that they couldn't quite determine, however I was under warranty before so thought nothing of it - certainly didn't think it would reoccur - that time 3 cylinders of of the 6 were dead. This time, just one. Anyway, when we had the car TOWED at our expense to the LR Peabody, it was at this time we asked them to look into the coolant too - we've been putting in an excessive amount, so my fiance (a former saab mechanic) thought the coolant may be leaking internally, not to mention on a previous visit they had replaced the coolant bottle (apparently, they break easily). LR stated that they would have to open the engine to check for the internal leak, we asked if it was related to the engine stalling and if this type of repair was common for freelanders, I was told no, which later changed to "no, it's not common for people with the extended warranty" Ummm...what? So, had I purchased the warranty, the coolant wouldn't be leaking? Had I purchased the extended warranty, the cylinders would never have broken? The fact remains this vehicle is a piece of crap, and like I said to the dealer, you don't by a LR expecting it to break down after 3 years. I've owned a honda and drove it to the ground with 300K miles - never did I have problems like this. The Audi was the next car, which I purchased used - for this one I DID get the extended warranty as the used car was already 3 years old, and I figured repairs would start kicking in after about a year or two into it. I sold the Audi for the LR right after the extended warrenty ended and I started having to pay out the wazoo to fix a now 8 year old Audi. Getting a new car was supposed to cut back on the costs, now you tell me, why would you want to get an extended warranty on a new vehicle -it's new, it's not supposed to break down on the highway and not one person at LR can figure out why -what BS. They KNOW it's going to happen, why not warn prospective buyers?
Anyway, here's where I am - today LR customer service called me back to let me know (1) LR would not cover any costs or offer any discounts toward the repair for the cylinder, nor any repairs if a new engine is needed. (2) you should have taken the extended warranty option (3) your car has 70K, what do you expect? Yep, she was THAT rude. We're relocating back to NJ next week, and since LR can't vouch that vehicle will not break down, we're thinking about getting a rental instead - more costs out of our own pockets for a defective vehicle sold by LR.

For all those that spoke of the Class action, here's my e-mail - please contact me ASAP: cherylgolding@gmail.com

Wow I had to buy a new engine for my 2003 Freelander too! Has anyone had any success getting LR to accept any responsibility?
efpardo@usitweb.com

2004 RANGE ROVER Front diff. went out twice no warranty so the dealer is not responsible. We thought it was new and wouldn't need one. But since purchased the truck keeps breaking and costing Email me if there's a class action going on cause there's no telling whats next to go on this truck and for the price I paid I shouldn't even know what under the hood look's like I am not a mechanic. The cluster is bad it makes strange chriping noises. And if you ask me its sounds like they knew what they was doing.

Hi everyone! I have an 02 Freelander, that has 65K miles, and have had to replace the transmission, cooling system, 2 window regulators and today, the coolant is gone again, and the car overheated on the highway. It looks like the head gasket is blown, and the engine will need to be replaced. This car has RUINED my credit rating, because of late payments to the bank, after spending all my money on repairs. There is a video of a girl who has started a class-action lawsuit on YouTube. I have contacted her, and I hope you all do the same! The link is:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=kEGrOEDEMCU.
Good Luck everybody!

I wrote a comment a few months ago but never posted on your site, I have a 2002 with 40,000 miles, engine overheated, service department towed car to another dealership and were not aware of my car for over a week. Everyone refuses to repair the vehicle and wants over $7.000.00 in repairs, in fact it has been over 180 days since I had my vehicle and still do not have an exact quote. I think we need a class action suit. Not a happy person in Cleveland OH

OMG. I thought I was the only one with this problem. I have a 2002 Freelander and it has been at a private mechanic for 8 months..It barely has 65k miles on it at. The first sign of the problem was a flashing F-4 appeared on the PRDN, then it shut off on the freeway. Then it refused to shift gears or go any higher than 15mph..I've paid around 3k now and still doesn't work. It seems the transmission has failed. The dealer won't help me because it's no longer under the warranty.. Has anyone successfully fixed this problem? Is someone suing and can the rest of us join you?

My Land Rover experience...............

I am staring at the $297.00 I paid for the diagnosis of my 2002 Freelander, right under that is the detailed bill of material for almost $9000 dollars of parts and labour of recommended repairs. In that list is the manifold that has been replaced twice, once under warranty and the other I paid for. A new JATCO Transmission and thousands of dollars in other parts. I am simply shell-shocked.

Seriously folks I maintained my 2002 SE Freelander as if it was a cherished pearl. Always the Oil change, always the Air Filter, regular maintenance intervals, all fluids replaced at recommended service intervals, on and on and on.

Now after 5 and a half years, my 2002 SE V6 Jatco Freelander is basically the biggest lemon in automotive industry. Funny how my car started to fall apart as soon as the rear wheels cleared the Land Rover dealership lot on that fateful 12/31/01 sunny afternoon when somehow my judgement was clouded and I purchase a brand new Freelander.

Innumerable and systematic quality issues make the Freelander a modern day variant of classic an automotive flops, right up there with the Edsel, the Ford Pinto and some AMC vehicles of days gone by. Still at Land Rover things go wrong, very wrong and in a rather alarming way.

Poor parts quality and classic british design faults on everything other than the structure and suspension, makes the Freelander an unfortunate peril to drive and the worst Euro SUV trash. A sad reminder of what a glossy brochure can do to an un-suspecting buyer.

Land Rover is asking for $9000 dollars to fix a car not worth $10,000 USD. My 2002 SE Freelander SE is a disaster. The list of woes over the last 5 and a half years is way too long to post here. Yet the smell of hot Dexcool is something I will want to forget as soon as possible. Five years of weekly dexcool top-offs with the LR dealer saying (no problem found.) After 5 years of leaking coolant and the $1500 repair bill to eliminate the leaky heater core and replace the Air-con fan damaged by the leaking coolant, I have had it.

My friend from Maryland called me the other day and said he bought an LR3.

I asked my friend if he read the consumer reports.....

He sounded worried and replied "Should I have read them?".

You be the judge......

I Have the very same problem with my 2003 Freelander. On every visit, which has been many, we complained of leaking coolant and they claimed they weren't able to smell it. However, once the warranty period was over they came up with solution. Fortunately for me, I had bought the extended warranty. And of course, there was with the issue with the sunroof, the passenger window/door, the lights coming on, the brake doing strange things all of which the dealer is never able to replicate! I had to change my tires out on the LandRover before 50,000 miles.
They should be held responsible for their shoddy workmanship.
I have a Rav4 driven by a teenager 2years older and 20,000 miles more -absolutely no issues. You take it in for servicing and that's it! This is my first and last LandRover Last week my winshield developed a crack which the dealer said is a defect but LandRover does not cover glas and the winshield will cost $1100. They haven't bled us enough for the past 4 years

Similar problem with me. They made it sound like it was my fault for missing my 36K and 48k checkups. Then I did a search and found that the coolant leaking into the engine is standard with freelanders after 50K. Sad thing is I bought $3K in extended warranty last year which they say does not cover this and is down the toilet. I'm not going to go down with out a fight.

I guess I am just getting started. I have had my 02' Freelander for just over 6 mos. It has 72,000 miles. And like a genius I paid cash, so it's all mine. The thermostat just went. I caught it before too much damage was done. The Cam Sensor got hot and now it has trouble starting. I went to my dealership to get replacement parts it's $70 for the thermostat and $70 for the sensor in addition they have updated the sensor now (because they realize it fails after getting too hot) so I need to purchase a new/updated wire harness: another $70 (Landrover must like that number). It seems to me that if you updated the parts for you vehicle because the old ones were inferior. And you won't produce/ or sell me the old parts because they're no good that a recall needs to be done. I understand that Landrover doesn't owe me anything because my car is no longer under warranty. But I would have to be stupid to ever purchase another Landrover.

Please count me in on any legal action. My Freelander engine failed with only 17,000 miles on it. Failure sounds to like the cylinder liner problems that I have been reading about. Bought it from a private seller so LR refuses to honor warrenty. I can be contacted at ifc@aol.com.

I've had my 2001 Disco II SE since new. I've treated it very carefully and no off-road...hey this is Miami; where am I gonna go...the beach?. Until recently, I was the only driver and the miles have been kept low. I've had minor problems like the door not closing properly, speakers requiring replacement, a/c problems, and an anti-lock brake recall. I bought the extended warranty but I still had to pay out the nose for a drive shaft replacement at 32000 miles and my rover has been in and out of shops who can't find the cause for hesitation in my motor when at idle and accellerating. Oh...and by the way...I can't get into a dealer for their opinion because I have to call an 800 number to schedule an appointment and those are usually not available for at least two weeks. Imagine having a bad drive shaft such that the truck shouldn't be driven but "LAND ROVER" can't see you for two weeks. I still love my rover and don't want to part with it but if the thing brakes often and repairs are so expensive with the dealership not offering any support, it may be time to reconsider. By the way....Miami has two dealerships and they're both owned by the same family. Where's the competition for service? Competition isn't necessary when the dealership is filled with rovers needing repair.....too many repairs.

Jeez...am I glad I stumbled onto this blog. Looking for a reasonable used small SUV like a Ford Escape, started looking at the Freelander, seemed so reasonable and so many low mile cars at 45% of new pricing. Now I know why they are low mile cars...they apparently don't get to be high mile cars...whew! Took that search out of my favorites.

Seems like the debate goes on. which LR is the biggest lemon? My 2003 Disco SE7 is a good candiate. At least you freelander guys made it to about 50K before detonation. I had the engine replaced at 20k miles due to oil disappearing. The oil didn't disappear it went out the tail pipe due to piston ring failure. And the "new" shortblock just required 2 months of service and fixes to the manifold, fuel injectors, cam shafts, valve springs and a compression leak to fix a engine misfire. I just cleared 42k I fear to see what the next 20k miles will bring. I get the feeling they are trying to stall and get me over the 50k milage to drop me. Unbelievable. Lucky for me I have a dealership that is willing to help me but it seems that there are plenty of bad dealerships out there. I too have found LR customer support to be very lame. They took a call to request a buyback and stalled me for over a month to tell me they can't do a buyback due to the milage. But I gave them the milage at the initial call what a complete waste of time. When you had enough, nothing like getting some legal counsel to make your point. It seems the cars are made to last a little over the warranty period. Good luck to all of you outside your warranty on that class action suit. If you still have a warranty, run don't walk to you local lemon law lawyer. Time is not on your side.

Well Well Well. It seems that we have all have a hugh problem. My '03 Freelander with only 34000. miles has know racked up 2000.00 in repair cost. I am glad so glad for the internet so that we can all share our experiences with this brand. I will take a hugh loss but I will trade it in ASAP. Why do the little people always pay a price. Toyota/Honda here I come.

I haven't had any of these problems with my 03 Freelander SE (yet), but good luck trading it in. Kelly Blue Book lists the trade in value on mine at $11,600. I went to a jeep dealer to try and off this thing before any of this stuff happens to me and they offered me $4,000 for it on trade. I still owe $6,000. I think the word is out. I think I might park it in the garage and drive my 92 S-10 until I get it paid enough to get rid of it. What a shame, such great driving vehicle.

"It is what it is"? most of you know what it is, "A piece of junk". Our 03' freelander looks great, carries the kayak and bikes, but has had many more trips to the dealership than out for recreation. As I spent the last few days reading every review I could find, a light bulb moment appeared. "I am not alone". This gave me a moment of comfort until I realized that everyone has suffered the some thing I have. "consumer fraud".
When owners face engine, gasket,transmission, tire, service issues at a grand scale you would think that the company would step up and show some "Accountibility".
Instead, if you analyze reviews of their most popular vehicles today, you find that the problems are starting all over again for new owners. This is not a surprise for those who have suffered long enough. The "smoke" screne continues- The company will say, "we took care of the problem" and I just received a updated manual sent (i'm sure to all customers) of the "life style" that a owner could have. This doesn't talk much about the product itself, but a marketing campaign to catch more fish...Has anyone seen a salesman looking like Indian Jones? I thought that was interesting also. Advice, BE AWARE OF THE SMOKE SCREENE. Before you get cought in the net.For those of us already caught we are certainly in the same boat...

I have a 2000 disco 2 with the exact same problem, thermostat failed and the suden overheating blew the gasket.
The LR dealer in Anaheim Hills CA is expensive and incompetent.
Please include me in your product liability class action suit.

jay-perez@sbcglobal.net

I paid $65,000 for my almost undriveable range rover that sits in my garage!?!!#?!! The first week my power window went and after 6 visits to RR they finally fixed it! The sunroof leaks to the point that the interior lights no longer work and the headliner is completely sagging down. The driver side handle has been "repaired" because it gets stuck and you get stuck in it. The display on the radio has never worked???? It has a new a/c unit now! It has a new radiator now! The air suspension is gone now replaced with springs! I am on my 5th battery and my 5 set of tires! And to top it off the transmission is on the way out! I have 62k miles on it and land rover will do NOTHING!!!this is the biggest piece of ___ I have ever driven!!!! My friends told me not to get one but I didn't listen. If an attorney is reading this then lets go for the CLASS ACTION SUIT. This is crazy to spend so much money for the most poorly designed vehichle on the road....or in the garage!

I have a 2006 LR3 which has been pulling to the right since I've had it.The dealer can't find anything wrong. Anyone else with this problem?

Iam really afraid of my future with my SUV. I just purchased my landrover 2002 freelander from toyota in March 2007. I thought wow I am so luckey, such a great truck. The first month It spent in the repair shop of toyota. There was a coolant, sweet smell coming from the vents. They fixed it,,,, I was driving away from the place and then it started smoking from the vents.. turned around and they were completely shocked. I told them also I felt my truck was feeling pretty hot???? (still in the first month). My car was used, one owner, exterior excellent ..top of the line freelander this person must have paid a pretty penny.. 55000 mi.
Picked up my car again....a day or so.. drove away and still more smoke... they sent it to Landrover fremont. They had to replace the whole coolant system.. the core something or other burned out.. . Luckily Toyota and Landrover covered all the bills.. Because they were big money!! I also purchased the extended warranty for 3 years... but only on transmission ..everything that makes the vehicle move. About 5 days later out of the shop... I am driving and my truck completely stops,, I smell gas .. luckily I was in a residential area.. I stepped out and there was gas all under my car.. it had leaked out. Had it towed right back to Landrover in fremont. They fixed it no charge to me. Landrover Fremont Ca. has been great to me!! They offer a vehicle if you need one.. I have been given as a loner the L3 too big for me.. and boxy.. . But the dealership was very good to me. Now my truck at 7 months with me ,I still smell coolant when I open the hood ...and wonder why I smell this... and why does this truck feel so hot ?????
please give more info. Or How can I help.
rokit777@yahoo.com

I have a 2002 Land Rover Freelander . It has been nothing but a money pit and problems . It all started with the overheating once every three days . I took it to Land Rover of West Chester Pa. . They said they could find nothing wrong . They changed the oil and sent me on my way . Well three days later guess what happened . Yes it overheated . I had it sent right back to land rover and guess what . Land Rover said I NEED A NEW MOTOR , Thank God I had an extended service plan . It took 2 months to get my Freelander back , When I was driving it back the service engine light came on . I called Land Rover and asked to bring it in , Their comment was is it running , It seemed to run fine , I was basicly told do not worry about it . Well now the land rover cranks but will not start , My extended service plan expired . Almost seemed as if they planed it . I WILL BUY A KIA BEFORE I EVER BUY ANOTHER LAND ROVER . I AM SURE THEY HAVE BETTER SERVICE AND WILL OUT LAST A LAND ROVER . IF YOU ARE THINKING OF BUYING A LAND ROVER ....RUN . Mine is nice to look at in my drive way . A costly decoration .. BUT IF You have money to burn get one ,

My Daughter and Son-in-law bought their '02 Freelander with just 30,000 miles on it, it now has 65,000 and is a big money pit sitting in front of their house because the transmission went, no warning signs just went!! And being a young couple with a little one and another on the way they sure can't afford to get the piece of junk fixed, and even if they did sounds like it would need fixing again and again and again. I am hoping that by joining Bridget's Class Action Lawsuit that they can at least get out from under this piece of junk!!

I did get a piece of junk from the dealer, after I took it to replace the water pump it overheated, I have been going back and forth with it, and is drown my account to the biggest hole.
Again the dealer doesn't take any responsability but they know the issue pretty well acording to the manager.

i can't take it anymore, I rather have a divorce which will be less painfull (and cheaper)

include my name for a lawsuit

pilianni@yahoo.com

I have a Discovery II and on a service call for
120,000 km got the info that coolent is leaking
from the cylinder head. No overheating was noticed
yet - Now that - the car is in repair now and I
wonder about the outcome. The car is not even
3 years old.
keep you posted.

We bought our 2003 Freelander new and have followed the recommended service schedule. We like the look and feel of the car (when it is not in the shop!) but are really saddened by the cavalier attitude of our dealer, Symes Automotive in Pasadena, CA. We got rid of a 10-year old VW Jetta when we bought the Freelander because we thought the Jetta was getting too old and wanted something new and safe to tote around our small daughter. Hey fellow Land Rover owners -- want to bet that if we had kept the [now 14-year old Jetta] we'd have been better off?! The Freelander went in for its first problem 4 months after we bought it and has been in many, many times since. Symes has seldom fixed a problem the first time and usually fails to fix it at all until we've sent numerous complaint letters. One problem that was addressed twice while under warranty (the downhill descent control coming on when the car is not going downhill) was "suddenly fixable" almost exactly 30 days after the warranty expired. We argued the $1000 cost saying that since it had been in twice already for the same problem while under warranty we should not have to pay - we even filed a complaint with the BBB. Guess what LandRover's response was? Simply that it was not their problem. WHY? Why will they not stand behind the car they sold us? And really, one of our chief complaints, is that they are so rude about it - always telling us we are wrong and they cannot help us. I worked in customer service for years and know there are ways to politely tell someone no but still keep them loyal to your brand and Land Rover seems not to care. We would never buy a Land Rover again -- or, more specifically, any car brand sold by Symes Automotive.

Below is a description of my problems with Land Rover as filed with the BBB:

COMPLAINT ACTIVITY REPORT Case # 38008556 Better Business Bureau Serving Eastern Oklahoma

Consumer Info: Ingle, James Business Info: Land Rover Tulsa
631 N Union 4201 South Memorial
Shawnee, OK 74801 Tulsa, OK 74145
918 697-2166 405 275-3693 918 665-4294

Location Involved: (Same as above)

Consumer's Original Complaint :
Just a brief history. First mechanics missed antifreeze in the oil of the vehicle after it was reported to them that the oil had turned 'gunky'. Then, the mechanics told me that the vehicle need a new engine, then they (mechanics) changed their mind and said that gaskets needed replaced, which took the company almost a month to do. As the problem persisted, I was told that there was nothing wrong with the vehicle, and finally I was told that the vehicle needed 3 new spark plugs and had a loose clamp on a high pressure hose which was causing a slow anti-freeze leak. Also, there was a loud tapping noise that everyone else could hear except for Land Rover's mechanics. (This includeds qualified mechanics).I was told that they tested the vehicle and it was normal. Now, the tapping in the engine has became worse, and as Land Rover Tulsa had hoped the warranty has run out. Still the problem persists.

Consumer's Desired Resolution:
Since the neglect caused by Land Rover of Tulsa has caused further damage to my vehicle, I want them to pay to have a qualified mechanic (which does not include their staff)to repair the vehicle to my satisfaction in a reasonable amount of time. I expect a rental vehicle at their expense. I would like the credentials of Land Rover Tulsa's mechanic staff verified and I want compensation for all the time I have invested into this matter, which could have been avoided if they had done their job in the first place. If the damage is not repairable, then I expect them to pay off the note on the vehicle. If this is not acceptable to Land Rover Tulsa, then I would like them to explain to a Judge and the Department of Consumer Affairs their actions.BBB NOTE: THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU DOES NOTE HELP CONSUMERS SEEK PUNITIVE DAMAGES. The BBB's goal is to help the business and consumer reach a resolution not retribution. (Tami Conyers)

BBB Processing

03/19/2007 web BBB Complaint Received by BBB
03/20/2007 Tami BBB Member or MIP Complaint Validated by BBB Operator
03/20/2007 Otto EMAIL Send Acknowledgement to Consumer
03/20/2007 Otto EMAIL Inform Member of Complaint
03/29/2007 OttO BBB No response to first notice to member
03/29/2007 OttO EMAIL Consumer - Have You Heard From the Company
03/29/2007 OttO EMAIL Second Notice to Member
04/06/2007 OttO BBB No Response received from Business on 2nd Notice
04/23/2007 Tami EMAIL Second Notice to Member
05/02/2007 Tami BBB RECEIVE BUSINESS RESPONSE : Business response scanned and on file. See PDF file.
05/02/2007 Tami MAIL Forward Business response to Consumer
05/05/2007 WEB BBB RECEIVED CONSUMER REBUTTAL : (The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
First of all, the rental car fees that Land rover of Tulsa has listed would not have been needed if they had performed their job correctly the first time. As for the service on 11/17/05 the oil was clumpy due to an antifreeze leak that the mechanics neglected to address.
As for the brake job on 2/16/06 - less than one year later the brakes were grinding again, and I informed Land Rover at Bob Moore in OKC and my complaint was ignored.
The visit on 11/10/06 there should have been no reason for dirty oil or for me to have to check the fluid level every few weeks if the vehicle had been repaired properly.
On 11/28/07 after several weeks of arguing over the warranty, we were first informed that the vehicle needed a new engine, the after a call to Land Rover of North America, the expert mechanics changed their mind and stated that the vehicle just needed new head gaskets. Over $250.00 was spent out of our pocket for rental fees, even though Land Rover of Tulsa could have repaired the vehicle in less time.
Also, as for the service on 11/15/05, I would love to see a signed invoice because that service never happened. Land Rover stated they repaired the sun roof assembly on a vehicle that does not have a sun roof. As for the tapping noise, I have a video recorded when I left the dealer that clearly shows the noise existed. Also, Land Rover made a point to have the engine warmed up when I picked up the vehicle, so that the loud tapping was not as noticable. I have access to witnesses who will state that they heard the tapping with out even having to lift the hood, just days after the vehicle was picked up.
Since this fiasco began, we had to delay a move, my wife had to turn down a job (because of no reliable vehicle), I have had to practically give up my part time job in Tulsa, and I have used up a considerable amount of time dealing with this issue.I will gladly take the vehicle back to Land Rover of Tulsa, but I will not except their excuses that other "trained" mechanics have laughed at. The engine tapping has become considerably worse and the engine is still loosing coolant, and the vehicle is unreliable. I still do not accept that a loose clamp on a high pressure hose was causing a slow coolant leak. Other mechanics that have heard the engine run (especially when cold) have told me that there is serious problems with the vehicle. I have gone through the BBB on the advice of an Attorney to try to resolve this matter without going to court, but my patience is running thin.
Now that I have in writing that Land Rover repaired a sun roof assembly on a vehicle that does not have a sun roof, I feel my case has more merit.
05/05/2007 BBB MORE INFO RECEIVED FROM THE CONSUMER : Concerning this complaint, I would like to add that they have not had the vehicle back since January because I felt after several 'attempts' to fix the same problem, Land Rover of Tulsa did not have the qualified staff to deal with the issue. Land Rover in general has hundreds of complaints against them concerning their sub standard vehicles and sub standard service that any simple internet search will show, and I feel the public has a right to know.
05/06/2007 Tami EMAIL Forward Consumer Rebuttal to Business
05/15/2007 OttO BBB No Response from Business re: Consumer Rebuttal
06/13/2007 Tami FAX Forward Consumer Rebuttal to Business
06/21/2007 OttO BBB No Response from Business re: Consumer Rebuttal
07/18/2007 Tami BBB RECEIVED BUSINESS' REBUTTAL RESPONSE : From: David Litzinger
Sent: Tuesday, July 17, 2007 5:47 PM
To: tconyers@tulsabbb.org
Subject: Case # 38008556 James Ingle
Tami,

I have reviewed the response from Mr. Ingle and my only recommendation is to invite the Field Service Engineer from Land Rover North America to Tulsa to evaluate the problems with Mr. Ingle's vehicle.
Land Rover Tulsa has no interest in agreeing to the resolution proposed by Mr. Ingle. I would be happy to act as the liaison between the factory and Mr. Ingle. I would ask that Mr. Ingle be prepared to provide service records supporting the routine maintenances that have been performed on this vehicle. I am available for a conference should additional questions or comments exist. Thanks


David Litzinger
Centre Manager
Land Rover Tulsa
4201 South Memorial Drive
07/18/2007 Tami EMAIL Send Business' Rebuttal Response-New Offer
07/30/2007 OttO BBB No Consumer Response- Assumed Resolved with Letter
07/30/2007 OttO FAX Inform Business - Case Closed ASSUMED RESOLVED
07/30/2007 OttO BBB Case closed - Assumed RESOLVED

My response was that the issue was not resolved and have notified the BBB of such

2004 LAnd Rover Discovery purchased in Wilmington, DE. I was told the car was from the loaner fleet, had no service problems and 2000 miles on it. One year after owning it the oil pressure light started coming on at idle. LR replaced the small block??? At 55k miles, ascant 5k over the warranty the light started coming on again, I called service and told them the problem appeared similiar to the first time but I couldn't believe it would be the same problem... Well it is and I am waiting for a new small block to be delivered, fourtunately and unlike most I have been told that the will cover part of the cost but it will still cost me $1500-2000. Did I mention that I have regularly complained that the car seemed to drink oil, although I do closely monitor it and keep it full...I buy oil by the case now. count me in any class action suits.

My wife and I, purchased a 2003 Free Lander in December 2003. In the past few months, I've been doing some research on "missing" anti-freeze. It seems obvious that it is the seal in the headgasket. I am worried, since we are at 58k miles that the we are gonna be getting the shaft from our land rover dealer. I already noticed that when I called them this morning to set up an appointment, that they are not going to get us a loaner car. I am curious as to why I've seen 2 recalls on it for trivial parts, but nothing for a defective engine block? Looking back, I should have known their was a problem when they offered a new vehicle with such a big discount. Hind sight 20/20. How do we get a class action lawsuit started anyways?

Look at consumer vs. company. Companies have resources up to hundreds of millions of dollars and a staff or retained lawyers, accountants, and publicity firms. The typical business response is to ignore the complaint. How many people attempt to fight back, successful or not? The Times Online has an article about blogs taking big business and winning (companies are forced to review their corporate policy after blogger campaigns), the URL is http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/media/article1923706.ece.

Something humorous about the Melrose's haveyoursay blog is that Landrover was paying for his blog (you can find Landrover ads on the blog).

I recently made a online purchase, not vehicle related. The company has no connection or ties in my country, only their hosting service does. I did a whois search and found their hosting company. I ran a corporation registration search and did not locate the company or the hosting company that is a DBA of the corporation. Several calls to the company ended on deaf ears, a voice message asking for a return call was never returned. Later 2 calls were made where I spoke with two different representatives of the company, their line was the issue was between me and the company that they provided the hosting for, not them. Sounds convencing, except I never had an agreement with them and for the following examples. Vehicle owners are responsible if they provide a car to a reckless driver (negligent entrustment to a reckless driver); bars are responsible for selling drinks to someone that commits a tort (dram shop act, such as a drunk driver causing an auto accident); if you leave something out in view for the public that would attract them and that it causes an injury (an attractive nusiance, such as an refrigerator with the door latch still attached); and failing to keep a gun unaccessible (negligence, if someone uses that gun).

The above cases are analogous to a hosting service's responsibility. In each case, law suits have been filed and won. I have found that the vendor has a history of pattern. In my situation, benefit would not exceed cost, making a suit impractical. A blog is more practical and fair, what is the case with Melrose's haveyoursay blog. There are some constraints to the blog, most ISP and blog hosting agreements reserve the right to cancel an account if the blogger engages in an act that is harmful, such as slander. So the blogger never has a free reign to say anything they want. In my case a blog would be more effective, for the following reasons: 1) the vendor should make a refund if the product does not perform as they listed on their web site (including all the "fine print"); and 2) the ISP should be responsible for what they are hosting instead of providing a thief with a gun (their hosting service) to rob someone". Safety in internet purchases is still a issue, since the mid 1990's when the internet went commercial, otherwise you would see fewer "your purchase is safe or protected" messages. This ties back to the Times Online article, companies do need to review their corporate policy, and sometimes a blogger campaign is the only cost effective means to do this.

HAVE A 2005 RANGE ROVER WESTMINSTER HAVING COOLANT PROBLEMS 11 TIES OVER 10 MONTHS EVEN GOT NEW ENGINE AND STILL PROBLEMS INTRESTED IN CLASS ACTION SUIT

My 2000 Discovery II has 70,000 miles on it. In order to save on gas we decided to only take it out on "special occasions". Instead we have relied on our 93 Camary and 89 4runner to get us around. The old Toyotas have only requred minor repairs here and there over the years no matter how much we have driven them. We have put less than 3,000 miles on the Discovery this year and I have had to dump over $4,000 in repairs this last month.....on fixing sensors, a blown head gasket among other things. I asked the mechanic how this could happen on a truck with only 70,000 miles on it (I never take it off road). He said it was due to the harsh temperature changes in the area we live in. (?!!!!?) Needless to say I am going to cut my losses and try to sell it to the dealership tomorrow when I pick it up. I will be lucky if they offer me over $2,000. That is fine with me....I am bailing out while I still can.

I purchased a new 2003 Land Rover Discovery from Land Rover Austin, TX. I had an engine & radiator replacement at 13,000 mi. Talked to manager about replacing the vehicle and just gave me a 1-800 number to call to "open a case" with corporate. Nothing was ever done. The engine was replaced while under warrenty. However I have had other engine oil leaks w/ 2nd engine and multiple window (regulator issues). Rear brake lights are both filled with water and an extensive maintaince history record in the first 40,000 miles. The car is at 55,000 mi and falling apart. I have talked to land rover multiple times about granting me an extended warranty for the trouble and time I have had to endure and they will not. A class action law suit is needed. The discovery is a piece of junk and we should be compensated by Land
Rover for their false advertisement, poor product, and servce or at least get our money back. Many of these vehicles should have been recalled. I plan on hiring an attorney.

2004 Freeland purchased new from Land Rover Houston North. currently with 91,000 miles. Curently having overheating issues. Past deffects include: Window regulator, sun roof, Rear window leaking more than once - never fixed, Air distributer failed(intake valve made of plastic), Front window defroster, Coolant resivor cracked, Body not sealed correctly in the rear - never fixed (water in rear compartment - smeels), Replaced battery, Transmission issue with traction control. The Dealer ship installed a new laser wash and scratched the paint down both sides and on the rear. They sent it to the body shop and "repaired" the damange. Now the same locations are back, must of been a good cover-up job (Like wax). I can be contacted at jak_0987@hotmail.com

I have been having overheating problems with my 2002 Disco II and I also want in on the class action suit. First off, I was trained as a mechanic, graduated at top of my automotive class in 4 year tech school, father owned two service stations I started working for him doing oil changes at age 7 I'm now 38, so I know a thing or two about working on cars. Bought my Disco II SE a year old with 18K miles; extremely wealthy owner leased a new one every year due to high mileage he puts on them. I inspected it thoroughly, and got an extended warranty. Brought to dealer for everything including oil changes I could have done myself, but didn't want to void warranty. I alwasy supplied them with Mobil 1 synthetic oil which I run in my high performance cars. I complained about smelling antifreeze, they said it was normal. About a year later I noticed leaks in drive. I insisted they check the entire system, 3 days later they called. TWO cracked heads, two leaking head gaskets, bad water pump, radiator, heater core bunch of other parts. Nearly every cooling part needed to be replaced, luckilly under warranty. Got it back, drove it for a while, smell never went away. Back to LR, they said it was leftover from repair and would go away in time. I knew better so I wanted it in the service records. I also complained about valve tap noise, was told it was normal LR sound. OK, whatever, still under warranty. Back every 3K for routine oil changes & etc, every time I told them about smell and sound and always got same response "normal for LR". If memory serves me, this time they replaced radiator and water pump again. I need to check my records because several parts were replaces more than once but never resolved problem. OK, whatever, still under warranty. Bring it back for last routine service before warranty runs out told them to check everything so I can fix it before warranty runs out. No problem, everything is "normal". Only warranty repair: 3rd brake light was out. I decided to check about extending warranty for 1 more year (max they offered); problem was I couldn't transfer the warranty to new buyer and it hardly covered anything including most of the cooling system. I declined, drove for 3K more to bring in for oil change. This time Maribel calls to let me know it needs new tires & new brakes $5,000 and a host of other small repairs for a total of $7,000. They offered me $4,000 trade in for a new LR3. They never fixed the minor stuff when under warranty, but as soon as it ran out everything suddenly breaks and needed immediate replacement. I did the brakes, tires, alignment, and other stuff myself for $400.
I read the post about LR Paramus, NJ (world's largest in volume sales)and I can back what that poster says; Maribel in service is out to make them as much money as she can and is incredibly rude. Unless you buy a new Range Rover every 6 months, she treats you like dirt. I spoke to several other people in the waiting room who said they also had problems with her. I called LR USA (USA HQ is about 4 miles from my house) and got a nice letter and phone call asking if I would like to buy a new LR3 to replace my problem-plagued Disco. I want in on the class action suit since I know this thing is a time-bomb waiting to leak.

Hi,

Having viewed your web site it is evident that Land Rover often falls short not only with their products but more over their customer service. Whilst I am powerless to change the product development problems that Land Rover creates, I am able to offer a whole new customer service experience.

I work for a company called Lapworth Associates, we are a small family run company and we mainly import Land Rovers for the UK trade & retail market, this is more cost effective for our customers with a minimal saving of £1,200 & maximum of £3,500 (depend on which Defender you choose). Not only do we make it easier on your pocket but we pride ourselves on our commitment to go the extra mile for all of our customers. We have a very strict no pressure selling attitude i.e. we give you the information you require to make your mind up about a new car and leave it with you to contemplate. If you decide to purchase a car from us we will make every effort to ensure the transaction is as smooth as possible, handling all the paperwork and the fitting of any extras you require so that you can just drive away happy.

Our business motto is once you are a Lapworth Associates customer you stay our customer and we will always do our best to take care of you. Our attitude towards our customers has earned us a good reputation; please click this link to view our testimonials.

I hope that if you chose to buy a Land Rover in the future you would give us the opportunity to prove to you that purchasing a Land Rover can be a hassle free experience.

Thank you for your time.

Class action law suit - sign me up? I have an 02' Discovery SE with just over 60k miles on it. At 52k i needed a new engine due to coolant leaking into the engine (yep, just out of warranty). It all started with a "cylinder 4 misfire" engine code. Of course i spent over $3k trying to "fix" the problem before it was decided that i needed to spend another $5k for a new engine.

Wow, reading all these comments makes my frustration level grow even more. Land Rover North of Houston has had my car for SEVEN months with NO resolution. Luckily, I am still under extended warranty, but I have gone through a new motor and new transmission and now who knows what else and they are still trying to diagnose my problem. I have a 2003 Freelander HSE with 80k miles on it and I can't wait to get rid of it. My problem is, who even wants it?? I have tried to file a case with BBB but they have not been helpful either. I think we all deserve justice here, I'm just at my wits end and don't know what to do next. And advice is welcomed!

Its incredible on how Land Rover denies any wrong doing on there part and just basically waits till your warranty is over before they discover the problem. I own a 2003 freelander SE. I bought the vehicle used with 21,000 miles.It was still under Warranty, and basically felt I did not need a extended warranty if I maitained it. It all began with engine noise and overheating. Took it in and according to certified mechanics, it was as simple as replacing a cracked coolant resevoir.Then again for overheating while under warranty, and found nothing wrong. Warranty over now and take it in and they finally found problem costing me 500 dollars. Thought it was over then it over heated again and this time engine blew. Land Rover wants me to good will an engine or for me to pay 6500 for new engine. If i trade it in and they will give 6400 value on the 2003,towards a new one. I have always owned Toyotas and Chevys, and always drove past the 200,000 mile mark. This was my first Land Rover and my last.
Guess I should have never left something dependable.

2002 landrover freelander problems with windows,check engine light,radio,roof leaking water,aircondition blower and coolant leaks,temp gauge is out of whack, 3 times overheated,stong smell of antifreeze,termastat replace and starting up battery needs to be charge 3 to 4 times month

Hi, I took on a 2002 HSE freelander in April of this year with 88,000 km's. It is now at 102,000 and it is having the same problems that is mention above. I live ib Canada and like everyone else has found out, No one at landrover dealers or at the head office are willing to help. I now need a new engine. I onces owned a sunfire and traded it in at 450.000 km's and the only thing I did to it besides its services was new tires. Now compare a lowly sunfire to a landrover? mmm what was my better deal. If there are any class suits out there. Please let me in on it? Thanks. My email addresses id: daphnearaujo@sympatico.ca.

I am the original owner of a 2004 Landrover Discovery SE. I've strictly obeyed the maintenance schedule taking my Discovery to an authorized Land Rover dealer. Still, I have had nothing but major issues. Just after my 50,000 mile warranty was up - my entire engine blew! No warning. This cost me $9000 to replace the entire engine. Land Rover did agree to pay 50% of the cost (but not the labor). I've only had my Disco back for a couple of months - it's already back in the shop. This time there is a seal broken in my rear turn signal light which caused it to fill with water and short the electrical system. Also the rear hatch door will not open from the outside (very convenient?). I have to literally crawl through the back seat to open the latch from the inside. Not very convenient considering the 2 seats that are back there... or for getting out the groceries! Also the drivers side door will not open with the remote key entry or the internal door locking system. How am I even supposed to get in this vehicle!?!? These repairs are going to cost yet another $1000. I am so frustrated with the Disco and Land Rover. I purchased this truck believing that it was a sturdy, high-quality SUV that would last me over 10 years. It's only been about 4 years and already I've put about $15K into repairs, if not more. This sounds like a LEMON to me. I am very frustrated and hope that others who are considering purchasing any Land Rover reads this first before making a decision. These are not reliable cars and the costs and inconvenience of constantly repairing this vehicle have finally put me over the edge. Land Rover/Ford should accept responsibilty for these poorly made vehicles and help those of us with these issues. I would definitely be interested in a Class Action suit against Ford Motors regarding the Land Rover vehicles. I have plenty of repair invoices as evidence!

OMG, I just purchased a 2004 freelander two days ago and wish i would have read these reviews. No problems now and hopfully I want have any. I am really scared about my purchase.

Ever since I was a kid I wanted a Range Rover. Not only because I grew up in Ohio and had a lot of snow, but because they "used" to be built well, the Cavs and Cleveland Browns had them, etc. I finally saved up enough money to get one. Just bought it a few weeks ago in Chicago with 44k miles and drove it home to Charlotte, NC. It now has 46k miles and the front differential and drive shaft went out on it. (Technical Service Bulletin 540103 NHTSA number 10000919) I didn't think I needed an extra warranty. After all, these things are $70,000 brand new. I am waiting to hear back from Land Rover Headquarters this afternoon. They will tell me if it will be fixed for free or not (Goodwill)

Here are some more links with issues related to this:

http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/tsbs/results.cfm

http://www.rangerovers.net/rrmkiiiremedies.html#diff

http://www.brittany-internet.com/LandRoverBrittany/tabid/168/Default.aspx

The Tulsa ,Ok dealership has openly lied about repairs not needed and guessing at electrical shorts etc. in 2000 Discovery II. At 90K the driveshaft went together with $2000 of repair items I have never repaired in any other vechicle. Last weekend thermosat went then head gaskets...$1800 more.
Contact me if anyone decides to progess on a class action.

I am the second owner of a 2004 LR Discovery. I bought it 3 months ago from a dealer with 47,000 miles. I have put 11,000 miles on it. 58,000 miles currently. By the looks of the other comments here... you can already tell where I am going with this. The other day I was driving down the highway at 75 mph and the engine started "hammering". No warning lights came on and the temperature gage was "normal". All of a sudden the motor "blew" sending smoke, oil, and metal parts flying. I had never experienced anything like this and knew it wasn't good, that something major had happened. I was 180 miles from home so had the vehicle towed to a LR dealership. They called me and told me that the "piston had blown through the block". I have never heard of such a thing happening with any vehicle. The dealership told me it needed a new engine and it would be $8500.00!! Can anyone help? What is up with major problems with engines occuring on these with around 50,000 + miles?? Is there any recourse we have? I have filed a complaint with LR Corporate and they told me that someone would be back with me within two days. Can't wait for this call... If it doesn't go well, I plan to contact an attorney.

I am having a problem with my 2006 Land Rover LR3 V8SE, I have it roughly 2 years now and has 14,700 miles on it, and on Thanksgiving day I was closing the rear top hatch of the trunk, and I think that while I was closing the hatch I had my finger on the button that releases the hatch and now the hatch is stuck in the closed position and won't unlock or open at all. Any suggestions, is there an easy fix, or way to get this hatch to open again, I already tried the holding the lock and unlock buttons, and that didn't work. If nobody has any ideas or suggestions I will be taking it to the dealer, but would like to see if I can first open it myself. Thanks everyone.

Same issues as above.. 2002 FL.. Linking coolant, snoking real bad..getting ready to take to the shop,my guess is head gasket. I want in on law suite..tracykingturner1@aol.com

I own a Landrover discovery 11 2002...i like this car but all i can tell you is ever since i drove it from the dealership 3 years ago it has been full of problems,problems and problems.Hope that explains it....some of the problems i have had along the way include engine cooling system problems,master cylinder replaced(i almost had a serious accident with this incident cause i was going going to work in the morning backing out of my drive way which is on a steep slope the car would not stop but luckily i was able to maintain control and my brakes had been functioning fine the previous night),window regulator replaced,leaking front and rear seals(pinion seals)broken suspension,traction light and abs light that wont go off...i have been a landrover fan due to growing up in Africa where we had a better landrover selection but never expected the landrover to become such a nightmare and when you call landrover USA,they will come up with any excuse they can think of...now 2 days ago i noticed that my antifreeze is leaking really bad...no idea whats going on but one thing is for sure on my part...more money to spend..but with one more year to go on my payments($500 a month)am just counting down the days so i can finally get rid of it

I have a 2004 Range Rover HSE. It has literally been repaired at the dealership for various issues more that twenty times since I purchased it. Obviously, there are designed flaws with these vehicles. I am absolutely amazed that Land Rover is allowed to continue to sell these potentially dangerous vehicles. As LandRover owners we should all band together and collectively sue!

Adding myself to this long tale of woe. Have '03 Freelander, purchased new. Usual raft of annoying british car problems, but hey, I had spitfires and a rover 2000tc, so I get it. So after 4 yrs. the coolant begins to suck out somewhere, some white smoke from tailpipe concerns me. Off to first one, then another dealer. Am told a sleeve "dropped" hence the coolant leaks into the oil and combustion chambers, pressurizing the cooling system and cooking the engine. So, I need a replacement engine, decided on a "factory remanufactured" unit. That was 3 months ago. Still waiting. No engines available for who knows how long. Now, do I get the motor replaced, only to face the same problem again? The long wait is worse than the cost. I had to buy another car just to drive. LR refuses to pony up a rental. I'm not a lawyer but have been doing some research. Manufacturers have a legal obligation to make repair parts available to customers who desire to repair their vehicles. The bottom line is that no matter how deep your pockets are, or how much you want your car fixed, LR can't supply the engine. There are at least 4 at last count Freeloaders at the LR dealership where mine is languishing, waiting for engines. Call any LR dealer in US or Canada and ask the parts dept. for new or reman engines for Freelander and if they stop laughing at you will tell you that they have no idea when they will see any. Engines now being made in China. As far as class action suits go, you can wait for years for squat. Lawyers get the money, you get a few hundred maybe. I think we all should be major league assholes to LR and demand that they make things right. A buyback at fair value seems right to me as long as the things can't be fixed.
If anyone wishes to comment to me, I'm at chbeecher01@msn.com and would answer any emails which offer good ideas to get the attention of LR USA. I even envy the owners of Discos and Rangies, since there are MANY parts sources and outlets outside the dealer network, they don't have a stupid sideways engine, and can be repaired by normal shops. Freelander owners are just plain screwed.

just a continuation from my last posting...i took my car to the garage and found out that the coolant is mixing with the oil.Now probably i need i new gasket or more...and one thing i found out is that this is a general problem with the Land Rover Discovery II.I think we need a class action lawsuit not in bad faith but because we are being robbed in broad day light.Land rover is selling its customers a very defective product.

Et al,

I was considering purchasing a Land Rover Disco II used but after reading these horror stories the closest I will get to one is looking at them on the used car lots as I drive by. Hopefully Alan Mullaly will kick the Britts in the teeth and get Land Rovers quality under control via Ford's ownership of the company. Talk about snake oil and total lack of quality in design or production. Could you imagine if Land Rover built aircraft...

Well well. Our 2002 Freelander just busted its thermostat housing... about $800 in repairs according to LR Paramus.

Including replacing cracked overflow bottle, which seems to be another common item.

They claim they know of no TSBs on this. Are there any bulletins? If so, where?

Thanks!

First comment: Look how long this blog is! I own an '03 Discovery with coolant leaks. 43k miles and out of warranty based on years.

To date I have had minor issues and really professional service from Land Rover Orlando. Now, once the verhicle went out of warranty the leask started.

The visit a month ago they told me i had a hole in a hose. i thought FANTASTIC! the next day it still leaked. Upon the second trip to the service dept. they noted the clamps weren't tight. i responded..i better not see a bill because the leak was fixed when i left here yesterday. the third visit resulted with a "there isn't a leak". The next week and 1 quart of coolant ater, the head gaskets are shot!

Funny...$500 into this and now it is the head gaskets. Guess what...the 2007 Yukon XL Denali I just bought doesn't have any problems and has a 100,000 mile powertrain warranty. Come to think of it, the 4 other GMC's I have owned never had a mechanical failure that i could not fix myself.

Get out while you can and buy GM!

One thing any Range Rover owner can do when they have cooling problems that can't be found by Land Rover Mechanics is to take matters into their own hands. I have a Range Rover with 115K miles on it and it too was plagued with overheating problems that mystified everyone - me included. Long story short? It turned out to be electrical. Something I discovered out thru sheer trial and error. Now I have a jumper cable clamped from the Neg battery to the frame and the other from the Neg battery to the housing of the alternator. It never overheats. It appears the vehicle was starved for a good ground connection. If you think you have the problem, when your vehicle is getting too warm, turn the headlights and other electrical items on and off and see if the engine temp changes. For me, the only I time it now overheats is when my cables come unclipped from rough terrain. Design flaw for sure, but you can't trust anyone but yourself to dig into what's going on under the hood of your vehicle, or you'll be sorry.

I submitted an entry on Nov. 16th. 2004 Land Rover Discovery SE. Piston through the block with 58,000 miles. Heard back from Land Rover Customer Service. Guess what? Here was the comment from the CS agenet. "we have reviewed your case and we will not offer any assistance". I have contacted a great attorney and am looking to file a suit against Land Rover. If you are interested, please email me at ejgood90@yahoo.com. We should not have to put up with this. I have decided to not fix my car unitl I get help from Land Rover or win a lawsuit.

I bought a 02 freelander several months ago and have had similar overheating problems to those mentioned here (dumped about $1,000.00 in to it so far but am worried that more trouble is surely on the way). Also have a defective front right axle spring. Anyone else have spring problems with their Rover? I'll join a class action suit for the overheating problem if many of you are on board. Let me know.

live in the Greater Toronto Area and I have a long list of mechanical Issues with my 2003 LandRover since purchasing it used less than 11 months ago. I've had to replace the following so far:
- speakers
- rear pinion seal
- window assembly
- passenger window regulator
- rear window regulator
- catalytic converter
- rear differential
- handle to open hatch litterly fell off

and now a mysterious leakage in the coolant overflow .....

I agree this has to stop. We need to band together across the world. These issues are in the UK, Australia, US, Mexico and Canada based on the articles above.

My email: bustech2005-forms@yahoo.ca

i feel extremely bad for all these people that thought they were buying a classic rugged SUV, but had only been dooped into a flawed piece of a junk. all the Land Rover products has been this way. I had a 90 and 96 and thought they had improved on their product. But seem they still selling garbage to the public. So people you have to hit where it hurt and that's in their " Bottom Line" just show up and with your sign and let them know your going to let the public know that they're passing off inferior to the public and we're not going to take it anymore

MY! MY! MY! WHY didn't I find this and many other sites on the LEMON LANDROVER, before I just purchased a '02 LR-Free Lander this past Dec. 7 2007, at a buy- here pay-here lot, and actually a "family friends" lot... When I was test driving the SUV's the land rover was the best handling, it was smooth, and overall the nicest car on the lot. I noticed a hint of smell of radiator fluid, but I knew he had just brought it back from being serviced I assumed it was from topping off. I WAS WRONG... I signed the papers on Tuesday,Dec. 11, Sat. Dec. 15 I was having it towed in, overheated, and SES light flashing, And there it still sits, at LR dealership in Dublin, OH. Engine needs replaced... I bought an extended warranty, but It is pretty much USELESS on these LANDROVERS... I haven't even made My 1st payment, and I owe 12,000. on this LEMON.... IF there is a CLASS ACTION SUIT I want all information I can get. NO ONE IS HELPING ME and I AM NOT GIVING UP. They should be stopped on manufacturing these vehicles.

MY EMAIL- treeliminol@yahoo.com

I purchased my Landrover Freelander HSE in July of 2004. No major problems except needed a new accessory for the roof which was not closing properly. Every time I bring my car in for the schedule yearly maintenance I need to replace the breaks and rooters ($1,000)!!!! My Freelander is approximately at 46k miles. Last week it overheated, I brought it to the dealer, and they were able to fix the problem. After reading your testimonials I am thinking of trading it in for a new car with a new warranty. I recently paid off this car, and would love a few years with no car payment, but from reading all of the problems it may not be worth it. I contacted the dealer and they quoted me a $3k extended warranty, and they were unable to explain exactly what that covers. Overheating seems to be a common problem. Has anyone else had an issue with an extended warranty???
my e-mail is: rainyk1@comcast.net

I am a lawyer in New York, and my 2003 Range Rover is currently in the shop awaiting a replacement engine needed as a result of a cracked cooland overflow. I am considering filing suit against my dealer who performed the scheduled service a month ago, the aftermarket warranty company who is refusing to pay due to an "overheating exclusion", and LRNA and its parents, subsidiaries, etc. I would have to consider the merits and expenses of pursuing this as a class action. I have printed a copy of the blog so I can study this matter further. I feel for all of us!!

No need to go over the problems with my 04 free lander y'll pretty much described them all. This is outrageous and something needs to be done. Please forward any info in regards to a class action lawsuit to fadioli@hotmail.com

We just purchased a used 2004 Freelander in September 07 from a used car dealer in NJ with 54,000 miles on it. Took it over to a Land Rover dealership near us to have the car checked out just to make sure there were no major issues. They said everything looked good and that they changed the oil for us but otherwise things were in good shape. A couple of weeks ago we noticed the car was heating up when idling and checked the anti-freeze (which had just been filled days before). Filled it again and watched it for a couple of days and what do you know, the same problem. Took it to our mechanic who called to say that the antifreeze was somehow leaking into the engine and out the exhaust. He couldn't believe a 4 year old car with 58,000 miles on it could possibly have this problem. He recommended we take it to Land Rover near us and have them confirm the problem. It took Land Rover very little time to come to the same conclusion that the car needed a new engine. We know from the VIN# that this car was purchased in NJ in Flemington and that the original owner had it serviced regularly up until about 37,000 miles. After that, we don't know the history, but I would love to be able to fill in the blanks. These cars are being put back into the secondary market only to be purchased by unsuspecting people like ourselves. SHAME ON LAND ROVER AND SHAME ON THE PEOPLE WHO ARE PUTTING THESE DEFECTIVE CARS BACK ON THE MARKET!!!!!

I too am having problems....We bought a used 2002 LR Freelander with 29000 miles on it at Land Rover of Cary, NC in March of 2006. They did not offer extended warranty, it was still under factory warranty at that time. About a month of owning it we had to replace a rear passenger window regulator (under warranty). We have had it serviced regularly. About 6 months later after warranty was up, we had to start adding antifreeze to the resevoir tank, also the check engine light started coming on. Also started tapping noise in the engine. (not a constant tapping, until the end) Took it in to have it serviced to the Land Rover of Roanoke, Va back in July 2007 and they supposed to of air pressure tested it and said the tank was cracked and both emissions motors were bad that was causing the engine light to come on, headlights burned out. At that time the engine was not tapping, (unluckily). I had to prepay for the parts to come in. Everything was changed on it still had to keep filling the engine coolant every 2-3 days. In November 2007, 55,000 miles on it, went to get in the car and the motor coughed, would not stay running, had car towed to Charleston, WV Land Rover dealership and they said we needed a new engine that it was blown,(They only tried to start it and said it was the engine) They grounded out the starter also....They charged $100 to just to look at it. We towed the car to a friends garage who is willing to fix it. I am wanting to join in on a CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT also....If anyone plans on starting one please email me.

Just a followup post for the latest problem with my 2002 Disco II: now that the cold wather is here I needed to turn on the seat warmer. After about 2 minutes I felt what was like my leg was getting shocked then felt a burning on my left leg followed by the smell of burning leather. Something happened to the heating element which caused it to overheat and didnt shut off. I had to stop driving and get out of the seat until it cooled off enough to sit. The doorhandles continually freeze shut locking us out until I can heat it up with a small torch, the back door also locks shut where you need to climb into the back to open it from the inside, the rear drivers door will not open from outside if you lock it with the reomte (arming the larm) the drivers window just droped into the door (conveinently during a rainstorm) because the 3 spot welds on the regulator assembly are engineeered to wear every time you put the window up: BE CAREFUL TO RELEASE THE WINDOW SWITCH IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE WINDOW IS UP OR I GUARANTEE YOUR WINDOW REGULATOR WILL BREAK TOO! As I stated in my original post, I am a mechanic by trade so I removed the part and welded it better than new; a simple and cheap solution I recommend rather than the $400+ dealer repair. It took about 1 hour and any good service shop can do it without special tools. The ABS and Trac Control are now acting up. I just hit 60k miles. It now takes nearly 15 minutes to fill it with gas because it will not allow the pump to run without backing up and shutting off. I need to hold it by hand in the freezing cold because the lowest setting on the nozzle still is too fast for this thing to take. There is no self serve gas in NJ, but nobody wants to hold the nozzle, so they make me do it. I still want in on class action suit. mbrienza@optonline.net

I am not going to write about all the issues that I have been having with my Landrover Freelander. We,my husband and I are wondering if anyone knows how to start a class action lawsuit, because we would like to join in as well. Please email me at Leah6372@yahoo.com

My 2002 Landrover Freelander engine with 62,000 miles needs replacing, cost is $7,000. It was overheating, along with many other problems it has had that others commented on. I had to buy a new car since it doesn't make sense to replace a broken engine with the same faulty engine. It is a total loss. I will have to continue to make the car payment on the Freelander however....where do I sign for the class-action law suit please-