My disco 2 TD5 is leaking fuel into the engine oil. The injector seals have been done so it looks like a crack in the fuel gallery in the head. I don't know of a quick fix so it will be up for sale.
The point of the post is, I am thinking of an early Disco 3 to replace it. Does anyone have any pointers what to look for or what to avoid.............or should I spent £10,000 an a Jap 4X4.
I myself am quite keen on the D3, £10k is really bottom of the market though.
Good cars, but as with all modern cars far more complex, so far more to go wrong. From what I've read they seem fairly stout in terms of major components, but suffer lots of electrical gremlins and the air suspension can prove to be problematic. I've read about turbo issues on the TDV6 too, while I think the V8 is a lot more reliable.
Biggest thing is deciding which spec and what you really want to do with it.
Most cheap ones are coil spring 5 seater models. All are diesels and either manual or auto. You still get HDC and TCS and a locking centre diff, so quite a capable machine and the IFS/IRS means it'll still be better on road than the D2, although it is a lot heavier.
Move up a model and you get air suspension and Terrain Response. Both of which could cause issues, but offer extended on and off road ability.
The 4x4 I keep thinking as a good alternative is the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. It's a LWB 5 door, the 2.8 CRD motor makes it as quick as a TDV6 D3 and the live axles make it better off road. Although more Disco 1/Defender like on road.
The Japanese make some good 4x4's too, but for me it would either be Jeep or Land Rover.