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2002 Land Rover Range Rover

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2002 Land Rover Range Rover (L322) marked a significant shift for the model, introducing a more luxurious and technologically advanced experience. It was available with a 4.4L BMW M62 V8 engine producing 282 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed ZF 5HP24 automatic transmission. Owners generally praised the vehicle’s off-road capabilities, luxurious interior, and commanding presence. However, the vehicle suffered from reliability issues related to the complex electronics and aging components. Repair costs can also be high due to the specialized parts and labor required.

Engine

4.4L BMW M62 V8

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are a common occurrence, often stemming from the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, or rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
    • Solution: Replacing the affected gaskets or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the location of the leak and shop rates.
  • Cooling System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The cooling system is prone to leaks and failures. Common issues include cracked expansion tanks, leaking radiator hoses, and water pump failure. Overheating is a common symptom.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty components, ensuring proper coolant mixture, and regularly inspecting the system.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the component.
  • VANOS Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: The Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) system on the M62 engine can experience issues with solenoids or seals, leading to rough idling, decreased performance, and fault codes.
    • Solution: Replacing the VANOS solenoids or rebuilding the VANOS unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ depending on the repair.

Transmission

5-Speed ZF 5HP24 Automatic

  • Slipping/Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Slipping between gears or harsh/delayed shifting can indicate internal wear or low fluid level.
    • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush and filter change may temporarily alleviate the issue. A full rebuild or replacement is often necessary in more severe cases.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 for fluid and filter. $2500 - $5000+ for rebuild or replacement.
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, especially when accelerating, can indicate a failing torque converter.
    • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ depending on labor rates.

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system is a common source of problems. Symptoms include the vehicle sagging, failing to raise or lower, and warning lights on the dashboard. Often caused by leaking airbags, a failing air compressor, or faulty height sensors.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking airbags, air compressor, or height sensors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+ per airbag, $500 - $1500+ for the compressor, $200 - $500+ per height sensor.
  • Worn Suspension Bushings
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially over bumps, can indicate worn bushings.
    • Solution: Replacing the worn bushings (control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, etc.).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the number and location of bushings.

Electrical

  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: A common issue is parasitic battery drain, leading to a dead battery, especially after the vehicle sits for a few days.
    • Solution: Diagnosing the source of the drain (often a faulty module or wiring issue) and repairing or replacing the component.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the problem.
  • Instrument Cluster Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The instrument cluster can experience issues such as dimming, flickering, or complete failure.
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ depending on the repair method.
  • Navigation System Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The navigation system unit can fail due to age.
    • Solution: Replacing the navigation unit
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ depending on the repair method.

Exterior

  • Rust
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust can form around the wheel wells, door sills, and lower body panels.
    • Solution: Cutting out the rust and welding in new metal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ depending on the location and severity of the rust.

Interior

  • Headliner Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric can detach from the backing board and sag down.
    • Solution: Replacing the headliner.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Pixel Loss in LCD Screens
    • Description/Symptoms: Pixel loss in the radio display or other LCD screens
    • Solution: Replacing the screens.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Heater Core Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Leaking coolant into the passenger compartment, or not heating up the cabin.
    • Solution: Replacing the heater core.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000-$2000+

Summary

The 2002 Land Rover Range Rover offers a luxurious and capable driving experience. However, potential buyers should be aware of the high maintenance costs and common reliability issues. The air suspension, electrical systems, and engine/transmission are the primary sources of problems. Addressing these issues can be expensive. A thorough inspection and pre-purchase inspection are highly recommended before purchasing this vehicle.

Land Rover, Range Rover
Land Rover Range Rover 2002
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