Land Rover Repair: Disco II 3 amigos, haynes manuals, scary issue

Question
I am considering to buy an incredebly new june 99 Disco II with only 30 thousand miles. The only thing is that the ABS, Traction Control and Hill Decent warning lights are all lit.

I have seen your comments about this, but I still have a doubt: Do you consider this a serious "no buy" issue, or just a stupid electric problem with no impact on security and performance?

Also, after remaining parked for 15 mn, the car left a nice oil drop on the road. Is this a scary issue, or just a poorly educated car?

Thanks
Thank you  

Answer
Hi Frederic,

intelligent questions. I also see you do your research.  The 3 amigos are a concern that will nag this vehicle for some time. It has to do with the advanced ABS system and so I'd consider it serious.  For such a heavy vehicle, ABS, TC and HDC are very important safety features. On or off-road.

If you're willing to repair this then factor in up to $3000 in parts and labour. It depends on which component is at fault.  There is no garantee that the problem won't resurface even if repaired.

As for the oil leak, welcome to LR ownership.  It's not a stain...its your Disco marking it's territory!

Seals and gaskets have to be maintained.  Could be a minor problem or could be the usual suspects, sump gasket, gearbox plate, oil filter, crankcase seal.

I've learned to 'paper train' my Disco.  It may not be that serious...buy you'll have to investigate this yourself.  Most LR dealers will do an inspection for a price.  If you do purchase this Disco, the next step is to find a dealership that you can trust, register yourself as the new owner and start educating yourself on DIY repairs.

There are no Haynes manuals for '99 - Disco's but there are LR workshop manuals available.  Worth the investment.  Rave CD's (technician PDF manuals) also exist.  

Other problem areas to check are power windows, door locks, remote key fobs, rear door hinges, rear door lock/latch.  

Which suspension does it have?  Air suspension problems do exist and the repair costs are high.  If you have coil and spring suspension, consider yourself lucky.

Best of luck,

JohnMc