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2006 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2006 Land Rover Range Rover is a luxury SUV known for its off-road capabilities and opulent features. Engine options include a 4.4L naturally aspirated V8 producing 305 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, and a supercharged 4.2L V8 generating 400 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the Range Rover’s distinctive styling, comfortable ride, and go-anywhere capability. However, it’s often criticized for its complex electrical systems, high maintenance costs, and potential for mechanical failures.

Engine

4.4L Naturally Aspirated V8

  • Timing Chain Guide Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup. Check engine light may illuminate. Can lead to complete engine failure if left unaddressed.
    • Solution: Replace timing chain, guides, and tensioners.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant level, overheating, visible coolant leaks around the engine, especially at the coolant expansion tank, radiator hoses, and water pump.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the leaking components, such as hoses, expansion tank, or water pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

4.2L Supercharged V8

  • Supercharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whining noise from the supercharger, check engine light.
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace the supercharger.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $6,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant level, overheating, visible coolant leaks around the engine, especially at the coolant expansion tank, radiator hoses, and water pump.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the leaking components, such as hoses, expansion tank, or water pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, transmission warning lights.
    • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body. In some cases, a complete transmission rebuild or replacement might be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, especially when accelerating. Transmission slipping or failure to engage gears.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter. A transmission flush and fluid change are usually recommended with this repair.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Compressor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sits low, often unevenly. “Suspension Fault” message on the dashboard. The compressor may run constantly or not at all.
    • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor. Also, inspect and replace any leaking air struts or lines.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Air Strut Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sags overnight or after being parked for a period of time. “Suspension Fault” message on the dashboard. Hissing sound coming from the struts.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking air struts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: The battery frequently dies, especially if the vehicle is not driven regularly. Can be caused by a faulty module not shutting down properly or a parasitic drain.
    • Solution: Diagnose the source of the drain and repair or replace the faulty component. This can be a time-consuming process.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the cause)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Navigation/Infotainment System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: The navigation system freezes, restarts, or displays incorrect information. The radio or other infotainment features may not work correctly.
    • Solution: Update the software, replace the navigation unit, or repair faulty wiring.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Tailgate Latch Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The tailgate won’t open or close properly. May require excessive force to open or close.
    • Solution: Replace the tailgate latch assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing smoothly, getting stuck, or leaking water.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Land Rover Range Rover is plagued by a number of potentially serious and expensive issues, particularly related to its engine, transmission, air suspension, and electrical systems. While some issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others can lead to major repairs costing thousands of dollars. The air suspension and electrical gremlins are particularly notorious for their complexity and the difficulty in diagnosing the root cause. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and budget accordingly for maintenance and repairs. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified Land Rover mechanic is highly recommended.

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