2007 Land Rover LR3
The 2007 Land Rover LR3, also known as the Discovery 3 in some markets, is a mid-size luxury SUV known for its off-road capabilities and comfortable ride. The 2007 model year offered two engine options: a 4.0L V6 producing approximately 216 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque, and a 4.4L V8 generating around 300 horsepower and 315 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the LR3’s spacious interior, advanced terrain response system, and distinctive styling. Common complaints revolve around reliability issues, high maintenance costs, and fuel economy.
Engine
4.0L V6
- Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon cold start, especially at higher mileages. Can lead to severe engine damage if the timing chain jumps.
- Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of coolant, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust. Common leak points include the water pump, thermostat housing, and radiator.
- Solution: Replacement of the leaking component and coolant flush.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
4.4L V8
- Timing Chain Guide Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 4.0L V6, rattling noise upon cold start. Fragments from the broken guides can clog oil passages and lead to engine damage.
- Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, guides, and tensioners. Thorough cleaning of the oil system.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Intake Manifold Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, poor fuel economy, vacuum leaks. Often caused by cracked plastic intake manifolds.
- Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks down the side of the engine, burning smell. Can cause low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacement of valve cover gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
ZF 6HP26 (Both Engine Options)
- Valve Body Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping between gears, failure to shift, transmission fault messages.
- Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body. Transmission fluid flush and filter change.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, vibrations, stalling, transmission fault messages.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. Transmission fluid flush.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak, hard shifting, transmission fault messages.
- Solution: Replacement of the mechatronic sleeve (electrical connector seal).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Compressor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: “Suspension Fault” warning light, vehicle sagging or unable to raise/lower. Often caused by a worn-out compressor or leaks in the air lines/struts.
- Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor. Repair or replacement of leaking air struts or lines.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Air Strut Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: The vehicle will be sagging on one side or corner, or the vehicle won’t raise or lower properly. Often can be heard hissing at each strut location.
- Solution: Strut Replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ per strut
- Recalls: None Found
- Height Sensors Failing
- Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate ride height displayed, uneven ride height, suspension fault messages.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty height sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Dead battery overnight or after a short period of inactivity. Can be caused by a parasitic drain from various modules, such as the navigation system or amplifier.
- Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the parasitic drain. Replacement of the battery if necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (diagnosis) + cost of part replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
- Transfer Case Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: “HDC Fault System Not Available” message, inability to switch between high and low range.
- Solution: Replacement of the transfer case motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Parking Brake Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: “Parking Brake Fault” message, inability to engage or disengage the parking brake.
- Solution: Replacement of the parking brake actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sunroof Drain Clogs
- Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin, especially in the headliner and footwells.
- Solution: Cleaning the sunroof drains.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Navigation Screen Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Blank screen, distorted display, or unresponsive touchscreen.
- Solution: Replacement of the navigation screen or the entire navigation unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Headliner Sagging
- Description/Symptoms: Headliner detaching from the roof, especially in warmer climates.
- Solution: Replacement or reupholstering of the headliner.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2007 Land Rover LR3 is a capable and comfortable SUV, but it is prone to several common issues that can be costly to repair. Engine problems, particularly timing chain issues in both the V6 and V8, and valve body failures in the transmission, are prevalent concerns. The air suspension system is also a frequent source of trouble. Electrical gremlins, such as battery drain and parking brake actuator failure, can add to the maintenance burden. While the LR3 offers a luxurious driving experience, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in the cost of repairs when considering this vehicle. The severity of the issues can range from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.