2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport

The 2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport marked a significant entry into the compact luxury SUV market for Land Rover. It offered a blend of off-road capability and on-road comfort, appealing to buyers seeking a versatile vehicle. The 2015 Discovery Sport was primarily equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 240 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. People generally like the Discovery Sport’s stylish design, off-road prowess (for its class), and comfortable interior. Common complaints revolve around reliability issues, relatively high maintenance costs, and occasional sluggishness of the 9-speed transmission.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil top-offs between scheduled services. This can sometimes be accompanied by blue exhaust smoke.
  • Solution: The initial step is often to monitor oil consumption closely, document usage, and check for any visible leaks. If consumption is deemed excessive, the dealer may perform an oil consumption test. Depending on the results, possible repairs could include replacing the piston rings or even the entire engine in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $8,000+ (depending on the severity and repair needed)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or stretching of the timing chain, resulting in rattling noises, especially during cold starts. In severe cases, this can lead to engine misfires and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioners, and guides. It is critical to address this issue promptly to prevent further engine damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, unusual noises (whining or screeching) from the turbocharger, and potentially an engine malfunction indicator light.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement. It’s important to diagnose the underlying cause of the failure to prevent recurrence.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,800 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts, particularly between lower gears. Hesitation or delays when accelerating, especially from a stop.
  • Solution: A transmission control module (TCM) software update is often the first step. In some cases, a complete transmission replacement may be necessary if the problem persists or worsens.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ (for software update), $4,000 - $7,000+ (for replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine revs up without a corresponding increase in speed. This can happen during acceleration or when attempting to maintain a constant speed uphill.
  • Solution: This often indicates internal transmission damage. Depending on the severity, a rebuild or replacement is usually required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when driving over bumps. Reduced ride comfort and handling precision.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn bushings (e.g., control arm bushings, sway bar bushings).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut and Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll during cornering, and potentially oil leaks from the struts/shocks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected struts or shock absorbers. It’s generally recommended to replace them in pairs (both front or both rear).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, Crashing, Bluetooth Disconnecting, or other software-related issues with the infotainment system.
  • Solution: Reset the system, software update, replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s battery drains quickly, especially when the vehicle is not in use for extended periods. This can lead to difficulty starting the engine.
  • Solution: Identify the parasitic drain by testing different components and wiring harnesses. Some possible causes include faulty modules, aftermarket accessories, or a failing alternator. Replace the affected component or repair the wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Water Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin, typically around the sunroof, windows, or tailgate. This can lead to mold growth and electrical issues.
  • Solution: Identify and seal the source of the leak. This may involve replacing seals, adjusting window alignment, or repairing damaged body panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may fail to open or close properly, become stuck, or make unusual noises during operation.
  • Solution: Inspect and repair or replace the sunroof motor, tracks, or associated components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport, while offering attractive features and capabilities, is prone to a range of issues. The most concerning problems revolve around the engine and transmission, which can lead to costly repairs. Electrical glitches and suspension issues are also prevalent. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor in the possibility of higher-than-average maintenance costs.