2008 Land Rover Range Rover
Here’s a breakdown of common issues reported for the 2008 Land Rover Range Rover, categorized by component, engine, and transmission options.
The 2008 Land Rover Range Rover is a full-size luxury SUV known for its off-road capabilities and opulent interior. Engine options include a naturally aspirated 4.4-liter V8 producing 305 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, and a supercharged 4.2-liter V8 generating 400 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the vehicle’s luxurious features, off-road prowess, and stately appearance. However, the Range Rover is frequently criticized for its high maintenance costs and susceptibility to electrical and mechanical problems.
Engine
4.4L Naturally Aspirated V8
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from various points including the water pump, radiator hoses, and expansion tank. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant puddles.
- Solution: Identify and replace the leaking component.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ depending on the part and labor.
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets can occur as the gaskets age and harden. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
- Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
4.2L Supercharged V8
- Supercharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The supercharger can experience issues such as bearing failure or clutch problems. Symptoms include a whining noise from the engine, reduced power, and possible check engine light.
- Solution: Rebuild or replace the supercharger.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Same as 4.4L V8 (water pump, hoses, expansion tank). Coolant leaks can occur from various points including the water pump, radiator hoses, and expansion tank. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant puddles.
- Solution: Identify and replace the leaking component.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ depending on the part and labor.
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets can occur as the gaskets age and harden. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
- Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Slipping Gears/Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: The 6-speed automatic transmission can experience issues such as slipping between gears, harsh or delayed shifting, and complete failure.
- Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement. In some cases, a valve body replacement can resolve the issue.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $6,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system is prone to leaks and compressor failures. Symptoms include the vehicle sitting unevenly, the suspension not adjusting properly, and a warning light on the dashboard.
- Solution: Replace the air compressor, air struts, or air lines as needed.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per strut or compressor.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Parasitic draws can drain the battery overnight, leading to starting problems.
- Solution: Identify and repair the source of the parasitic draw. This may involve tracing wiring harnesses and testing individual components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
- Recalls: None Found
- Navigation/Infotainment System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The navigation and infotainment system can experience glitches, screen failures, and software issues.
- Solution: Software updates, replacement of the screen or head unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Failures (e.g., ABS, TPMS)
- Description/Symptoms: Various sensors can fail, triggering warning lights and potentially affecting vehicle performance. Common culprits include ABS sensors and tire pressure monitoring sensors (TPMS).
- Solution: Replace the faulty sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per sensor.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Tailgate Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The tailgate struts can fail, causing the tailgate to not stay open or close properly. The electric tailgate can also have issues with the motor.
- Solution: Replace the struts or the electric motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Headliner Sagging
- Description/Symptoms: The headliner material can detach from the backing, causing it to sag.
- Solution: Re-glue or replace the headliner.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2008 Land Rover Range Rover, while offering luxury and capability, is known for its reliability issues. Common problems include engine coolant and oil leaks, supercharger failures (on supercharged models), air suspension failures, electrical issues, and transmission problems. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with costs potentially exceeding several thousand dollars, making preventative maintenance and thorough inspections crucial for ownership.