2012 Land Rover LR4

The 2012 Land Rover LR4 is a luxury SUV known for its off-road capabilities and refined interior. The LR4 was offered with a 5.0L naturally aspirated V8 engine, producing 375 horsepower and 375 lb-ft of torque, paired with a ZF 6HP28 6-speed automatic transmission. Many owners appreciate the LR4’s spacious cabin, comfortable ride, and advanced off-road systems like Terrain Response. Common criticisms include its relatively poor fuel economy and potential for costly repairs.

Engine

5.0L Naturally Aspirated V8

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise upon cold start-up, especially noticeable in the front of the engine. This indicates worn or failing timing chain tensioners, potentially leading to timing chain slippage and engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain tensioners, chains, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, and a whining noise coming from the front of the engine. The water pump impeller, often made of plastic, can fail, leading to insufficient coolant circulation.
  • Solution: Replacing the water pump with an updated design, preferably one with a metal impeller.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve covers, often dripping onto exhaust manifolds causing a burning smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

ZF 6HP28 6-Speed Automatic

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may exhibit slipping between gears, harsh or delayed shifts, or a general lack of responsiveness. Often due to degraded transmission fluid and/or valve body issues.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, or valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800 (fluid/filter), $1,500 - $3,000+ (valve body)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension may fail to maintain ride height, resulting in the vehicle sitting low, especially after being parked overnight. A warning light may illuminate on the dash. The compressor may be noisy or not run at all.
  • Solution: Replacing the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Suspension Strut/Spring Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sits unevenly or low, with one or more corners sagging. Hissing sounds may be heard near the affected strut/spring.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking air strut/spring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut/spring
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially if the vehicle sits unused for several days. Various electrical components can cause parasitic drain.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and addressing the source of the parasitic drain (e.g., faulty module, aftermarket accessory).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ (diagnosis), $100 - $1,000+ (repair, depending on the component)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Door Lock Actuators
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors may not lock or unlock properly, either manually or with the remote.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may leak, get stuck, or fail to open/close properly. Issues with the motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation or infotainment screen may freeze, become unresponsive, or exhibit other malfunctions.
  • Solution: Software update, or replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (software), $800 - $2,000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Land Rover LR4, while offering a luxurious driving experience and impressive off-road capabilities, is prone to certain mechanical and electrical issues. The most significant concerns revolve around the engine’s timing chain tensioners and water pump, the air suspension system, and potential electrical gremlins. Repairs can be costly, particularly those involving the engine and suspension. Addressing these potential issues proactively through regular maintenance and careful inspection is crucial for owners. While not all LR4s will experience these problems, buyers should be aware of the potential for expensive repairs when considering this model.