2008 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
The 2008 Land Rover Range Rover Sport offered a blend of luxury, off-road capability, and performance, making it a popular choice for those seeking a prestigious SUV. Engine options included a 4.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 producing 300 horsepower and 315 lb-ft of torque, and a more powerful 4.2-liter supercharged V8 generating 390 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciated the vehicle’s distinctive styling, opulent interior, and impressive off-road prowess. However, the Range Rover Sport, especially the 2008 model, is known for its higher-than-average maintenance costs and susceptibility to various mechanical and electrical issues. These potential problems are a significant concern for prospective buyers.
Engine
4.4L Naturally Aspirated V8
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, often stemming from the coolant crossover pipe located at the rear of the engine or the water pump, leading to overheating. Visible coolant loss, low coolant warning light, and steam from the engine bay are common signs.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking coolant crossover pipe with an updated version (if available) or the water pump along with necessary gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets, leading to burning oil smell and potential oil loss.
- Solution: Replacing the valve cover gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $700+
- Recalls: None Found
4.2L Supercharged V8
- Supercharger Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Supercharger failure or reduced performance. Symptoms include whining noises from the engine, loss of power, and potential engine overheating.
- Solution: Supercharger rebuild or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, often stemming from the coolant crossover pipe located at the rear of the engine, supercharger intercooler pump, or water pump, leading to overheating. Visible coolant loss, low coolant warning light, and steam from the engine bay are common signs.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking coolant crossover pipe, supercharger intercooler pump, or water pump along with necessary gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets, leading to burning oil smell and potential oil loss.
- Solution: Replacing the valve cover gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $700+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Harsh Shifting/Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts, slipping between gears, or complete loss of drive.
- Solution: Could be due to low fluid, valve body issues, or worn clutches. Requires transmission service, valve body repair/replacement, or a full transmission rebuild/replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $4500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Compressor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Failure of the air suspension compressor, leading to sagging suspension, inability to adjust ride height, and “Suspension Fault” warning light. Compressor can fail due to moisture damage or worn components.
- Solution: Replacing the air suspension compressor and dryer unit. Addressing any air leaks in the system.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Air Suspension Strut Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Leaks in the air suspension struts, causing the vehicle to sag, particularly overnight. Results in the air suspension compressor working overtime and eventual failure.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking air struts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per strut
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drains
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain, leading to a dead battery, especially if the vehicle sits for a few days. Caused by parasitic draws from various electrical components.
- Solution: Identifying and addressing the source of the parasitic draw. Common culprits include the navigation system, audio amplifier, and various control modules.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
- Recalls: None Found
- Navigation System Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning or completely non-operational navigation system.
- Solution: Replacement of the navigation unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Central Locking System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the central locking system, preventing doors from locking or unlocking with the remote or interior buttons.
- Solution: Diagnosing and repairing faulty door lock actuators or wiring issues.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $600+ per door
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Tailgate Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Failure of the tailgate actuator, preventing the tailgate from opening or closing properly.
- Solution: Replacing the tailgate actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Headliner Sagging
- Description/Symptoms: Headliner detaching from the roof.
- Solution: Reupholstering or replacing the headliner.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2008 Land Rover Range Rover Sport offers a luxurious driving experience but is plagued by a number of potential issues, particularly relating to its engine, air suspension, and electrical system. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures. The costs associated with repairing these problems can be substantial, making thorough inspection and a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic essential. The supercharged variant compounds these problems with additional supercharger-related maintenance. Prospective buyers should factor in these potential expenses when considering purchasing this model.