2014 Land Rover Discovery
The 2014 Land Rover Discovery, also known as the LR4, is a luxury SUV known for its off-road capabilities and spacious interior. In the US market, the 2014 LR4 was only offered with one engine option: a 3.0-liter Supercharged V6 engine producing 340 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired exclusively with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the vehicle’s off-road prowess, comfortable ride, and distinctive styling. Criticisms often include higher running costs, lower fuel economy, and potential reliability concerns.
Engine
3.0L Supercharged V6
- Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Whining or rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup. This can indicate a failing timing chain tensioner, which can lead to timing chain stretch or breakage. If the timing chain breaks, it can cause catastrophic engine damage.
- Solution: Replacing the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Supercharger Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, whining noises from the supercharger, and potential oil leaks. The supercharger snout bearing can fail, causing these symptoms.
- Solution: Replacing the supercharger snout bearing or, in severe cases, the entire supercharger unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Low coolant levels, overheating, coolant smell, and visible leaks around the engine. Common leak points include the water pump, thermostat housing, and coolant hoses.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty water pump, thermostat housing, or coolant hoses.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Valve Body Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, failure to shift, and transmission fault warnings on the dashboard.
- Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body. In some cases, a software update may resolve the issue.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, especially when accelerating from a stop. Also, a complete failure of the transmission.
- Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Compressor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The vehicle failing to maintain proper ride height, sagging on one or more corners, and an error message on the dashboard indicating a suspension fault. The air suspension compressor may be noisy or not function at all.
- Solution: Replacing the air suspension compressor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Air Strut Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Similar to compressor failure, including sagging, uneven ride height, and suspension fault warnings. Leaks can occur in the air struts themselves.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking air strut(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut
- Recalls: None Found
- Height Sensor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Incorrect ride height readings, uneven ride height, and suspension fault warnings. The height sensors provide data to the suspension control module.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty height sensor(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per sensor
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The battery drains overnight or within a few days, even when the vehicle is not in use. This can be caused by parasitic drain from various electrical components.
- Solution: Identifying and repairing the source of the parasitic drain. This may involve tracing wiring, testing individual components, and replacing faulty modules.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the source
- Recalls: None Found
- Infotainment System Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, unresponsive touchscreen, and navigation system errors.
- Solution: Software updates, replacing the infotainment system module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Central Locking System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Doors failing to lock or unlock remotely, key fob not working, and issues with the central locking system.
- Solution: Replacing the door lock actuators, repairing wiring harnesses, or replacing the key fob.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per door
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sunroof Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin, especially during rain. Clogged sunroof drains are a common cause.
- Solution: Cleaning the sunroof drains, repairing or replacing the sunroof seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Tail Light Issues
- Description/Symptoms: LED tail lights flickering or failing to illuminate.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty tail light assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- HVAC System Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Failure of the air conditioning system, heater blowing cold air, and problems with the climate control settings.
- Solution: Replacing the blend door actuator, refilling the refrigerant, or replacing the compressor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Power Window Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Window failing to roll up or down, slow or erratic window movement, and unusual noises from the window motor.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty power window motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per window
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2014 Land Rover Discovery, while capable and luxurious, can be prone to several issues. The most significant concerns revolve around the engine, specifically the timing chain and supercharger issues, as well as the air suspension system. Electrical gremlins and transmission problems are also common. Repair costs can be substantial, particularly for engine and suspension-related issues. The severity of these problems can range from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, making it crucial to thoroughly inspect any used 2014 LR4 and ensure it has a solid maintenance history.