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2008 Land Rover LR3

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By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2008 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. It was available with two engine options: a 4.0L V6 producing 216 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque, and a more powerful 4.4L V8 generating 300 horsepower and 315 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the LR3’s blend of luxury, off-road prowess, and spacious interior. However, common complaints often revolve around maintenance costs, electrical issues, and the reliability of certain components.

Engine

4.4L V8

  • Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Whining or rattling noise from the front of the engine, especially at start-up. This can eventually lead to catastrophic engine failure if the timing chain jumps.
    • Solution: Replace the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant leaks around the engine. Common leak points include the water pump, thermostat housing, and radiator hoses.
    • Solution: Identify the source of the leak and replace the faulty component (water pump, thermostat, hoses, etc.).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the part.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks down the side of the engine block. Burning oil smell.
    • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found

4.0L V6

  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant leaks around the engine. Common leak points include the water pump, thermostat housing, and radiator hoses.
    • Solution: Identify the source of the leak and replace the faulty component (water pump, thermostat, hoses, etc.).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the part.
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, and general transmission malfunction.
    • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body. In some cases, a complete transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $4,000+ depending on the repair.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, especially when accelerating. Transmission may also slip or fail to engage gears properly.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Compressor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sags or drops to the bump stops overnight. The air suspension warning light illuminates on the dashboard. The compressor may run excessively or not at all.
    • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor. Consider replacing the air struts at the same time, as they may also be leaking.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Air Strut Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sags or drops on one or more corners. A hissing sound may be heard near the air struts. The air suspension warning light illuminates on the dashboard.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking air strut(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per strut.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Height Sensors
    • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s suspension behaves erratically, may display incorrect height settings on the dashboard, or give a constant “Suspension Fault” message.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty height sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per sensor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Battery Drain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The battery frequently drains overnight or after a short period of inactivity. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty module or component.
    • Solution: Diagnose and identify the source of the parasitic draw. This may involve testing various modules and circuits.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the issue.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Central Junction Box (CJB) Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical issues, including non-functioning lights, wipers, windows, or other accessories. Can sometimes cause the vehicle to not start. The CJB is prone to corrosion.
    • Solution: Replace the CJB.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Parking Brake Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Parking brake fails to engage or disengage properly. Parking brake warning light illuminates on the dashboard.
    • Solution: Replace the parking brake actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Tailgate Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The upper or lower tailgate fails to open or close properly, or at all.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty tailgate actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per actuator.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof fails to open or close properly, leaks, or makes excessive noise during operation.
    • Solution: Diagnose and repair the sunroof mechanism. This may involve replacing the motor, tracks, or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Land Rover LR3 offers a unique blend of luxury and off-road capability, but it is prone to a number of common issues that can be costly to repair. Engine problems such as timing chain tensioner failure and coolant leaks are prevalent, particularly in the 4.4L V8. Transmission issues, especially valve body problems, can also lead to significant repair expenses. The air suspension system is known for its complexity and potential for failure, with compressor and strut replacements being common occurrences. Electrical issues, ranging from battery drain to central junction box problems, further contribute to the ownership costs. While some repairs may be relatively inexpensive, others, such as engine or transmission overhauls, can quickly escalate into several thousand dollars. Owners should be prepared for potentially high maintenance costs when considering a 2008 Land Rover LR3.

Land Rover, LR3
Land Rover LR3 2008
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