QuestionHi John,
I am looking at a used 1996 LR Disco with 120,000miles for around 6000usd. The body is straight and there is no major problems so I am told. What do you think about the high mileage...is there anything else I should be looking for? The Disco has been serviced at the local LR dealership on and off. Records are good. The tailgate has been replaced due to a fender bender.
Any info would be greatly appreciated!
AnswerHello HN Wood:
my suggestion is to do some careful inspections when you consider purchasing a high mileage vehicle. The Disco you mention is priced a bit high for 120K miles*.
If allowed, take the Disco to the nearest LR dealership and talk to the service manager. Hopefully the manager will welcome the opportunity to give you a thorough inspection of all major components and even a printout of past service work. Be straightforward and explain that you are interested in buying the Disco but are worried about the high cost of repairs. Some dealerships are willing to lend a hand (for a price: ~$100usd).
Since its a '96, you have have a 3.9 engine and you don't have to worry too much about valve jobs. The newer series II models have a sticking exhaust valve problem and require valve jobs (every ~50,000 miles).
Look for water problems in the passenger footwell area and the rear compartment (rear door and alpine windows leak). Windshield can leak on passenger side. Only the roof is steel the rest of the body is alum. I suspect the joint between this is the cause of the water ingress.
CV joints are expensive to replace. Older 4x4's have this as a major concern. Transmission leaks are more serious than the oil leaks. ALL Disco's have leaks of some sort, at least those that have mileage.
Listen to engine and if you hear anything unusual, a high pitch sound that is being 'drowned' out by the fan or engine could indicate bearing problems in the alternator, water or steering pumps. Watch the serpentine belt and see if it has any forward movement.
Take a good look at the tires. How are they worn? Should be somewhat even or at least the front tires should have the same wear.
Do all the electrical windows work? Test them.
Rear door has problems due to the heavy replacement wheel. You will see wear on the latch and lock of the rear door. If you can, open the door and see how it hangs on the hinges. Look for cracking in the alum door near the hinges. It this acceptable to you?
Disco's are excellent mud and snow vehicles. I have no complaints about how they drive on the highway either (well...the gas mileage could be better). This is a very heavy vehicle (~5000lbs) so the brakes are very important to inspect. At this point in the mileage, you may have to replace the calipers, rotors and pads. Have it inspected by a local brake shop (usually this is free).
Best of luck,
JohnMc
