2015 Land Rover Discovery

The 2015 Land Rover Discovery, also known as the LR4 in some markets, is a mid-size luxury SUV known for its off-road capability and spacious interior. Engine options for the 2015 model year included a 3.0-liter Supercharged V6 producing 340 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. The sole transmission option was an 8-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the Discovery’s ruggedness, off-road prowess, and comfortable ride. Common complaints often revolve around reliability, electrical issues, and relatively high maintenance costs.

Engine

3.0L Supercharged V6

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, especially when cold. Can lead to significant engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioners, chains, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant level, overheating, coolant smell. Often originates from the plastic coolant pipes or the water pump.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking coolant pipes and/or water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Supercharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the supercharger, loss of power.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the supercharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

ZF 8HP70 8-Speed Automatic

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping between gears, delayed engagement, or failure to shift at all.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body with updated components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially under light acceleration. Whining or unusual noises from the transmission.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,800 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: “Suspension Fault” warning light, vehicle sagging, inability to raise or lower the suspension.
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Strut Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging, especially overnight. Hissing sound from the air struts.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking air strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+ per strut.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, especially after sitting for a few days.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain (e.g., faulty module, improperly shut down system).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the cause).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Update the software, replace the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Terrain Response System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Error messages, inability to select terrain modes.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair faulty sensors or modules related to the system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tailgate Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Tailgate not opening or closing properly.
  • Solution: Replace the tailgate actuator motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof stuck open or closed, malfunctioning motor.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor or mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Land Rover Discovery is a capable and luxurious SUV, but it is prone to certain issues. Engine and transmission problems, particularly with the timing chain tensioners, valve body, and torque converter, can be expensive to repair. Suspension issues, especially with the air suspension system, are also common and costly. Electrical gremlins, including battery drains and infotainment problems, are also frequently reported. While some issues are relatively minor, others can lead to significant repair bills, making it crucial to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified Land Rover mechanic. Owners should budget accordingly for potentially higher maintenance costs.