2022 Land Rover Defender 90

The 2022 Land Rover Defender 90 is a capable and stylish SUV that blends retro design with modern technology. It’s available with multiple engine options, including a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 producing 296 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, a 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 mild-hybrid producing 395 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, and a supercharged 5.0L V8 producing 518 horsepower and 461 lb-ft of torque. The sole transmission option is an 8-speed automatic. People generally praise the Defender’s off-road prowess, distinctive styling, and comfortable interior, but some common complaints include electrical gremlins, reliability concerns, and a relatively high price point.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Coolant Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the cylinder head or the water pump. Can lead to overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the cylinder head or the water pump with an updated part.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6 Mild-Hybrid

• Mild Hybrid System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: “Check Engine” light illuminated, loss of power or intermittent stalling, and error messages related to the 48V mild-hybrid system.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the mild hybrid system and possible replacement of components such as the integrated starter generator (ISG) or the 48V battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.0L Supercharged V8

• Supercharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the supercharger, reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the supercharger or supercharger components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000-$7000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable and rough shifts between gears.
  • Solution: Software update to the Transmission Control Module (TCM).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one side or completely, suspension warning lights illuminated.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the air suspension system, often requiring replacement of a faulty air strut, air compressor, or ride height sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, or unresponsive touchscreen; Bluetooth connectivity issues; navigation problems.
  • Solution: Software updates to the infotainment system; replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $2000+ (Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Faulty readings from various sensors (e.g., parking sensors, blind spot monitoring), causing warning lights and/or system malfunctions.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery overnight or after short periods of inactivity.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic drain and replacement of the affected component, or battery replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Seal Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin during rain or washing, especially around door seals.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected door seal(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof getting stuck, malfunctioning, or leaking.
  • Solution: Sunroof motor replacement or sunroof assembly repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400-$1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2022 Land Rover Defender 90, while desirable for its off-road capability and design, does have some common issues. Electrical problems, particularly with the infotainment system, and suspension issues, especially with the air suspension, are prevalent. Engine and transmission issues vary depending on the chosen configuration. The severity of these issues ranges from minor software glitches to major component failures, resulting in repair costs ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and consider a thorough inspection and extended warranty coverage when purchasing a used 2022 Defender 90.