QuestionThanks John,
But what is TPS, ECU, MAF problems!?
The 96 I have seen has 136K kilometers on it (I am in Australia).
Do you also know anything about 1996 Jeep Grand Cheerokees !? Any good?
Many thanks
John
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Followup To
Question -
I am thinking of buying a 96 Discovery V8 auto.
Is this a good idea!? Heard they have more than eough problems.
regards
John
Answer -
Hi Jonathan,
if you have loads of money and can afford to spend $1000 repair bills on a regular basis - especially on older Disco's with high mileage - then buying a '96 Disco is your vehicle.
IF I were looking to buy a Disco, it would be at least a 2000 model year or newer. The older Disco series I had problems with suspensions, alternators, door locks, alarm system, water leaks (windshield and alpines), exhaust valve problems ($2000+ job), TPS, ECU, MAF problems, and these are just what I can quickly reference.
If you are dead set in purchasing a '96 Disco (the miracle LR with low mileage and a bargain price), you'll have to come to terms with the extremely high cost of maintenance on this older vehicle. For example, the power steering pump is about $500 to $700US...installation is extra. The alternator is about the same price. A new engine would run about $7000 while the transmission is about $3000. SO go into this purchase with your eyes wide open.
Best of luck,
JohnMc
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FOLLOW UP
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Hi Jonathan,
Australia! I'm from the other end of the world - Quebec, Canada!
The TPS (throttle position sensor) is essential in maintaining the idle speed of a vehicle - older Disco's has a history of random or rough idle problems. The ECU (electronic control unit) is the brains of the Disco - again a history of failure or need to reprogram has been noted. Replacement of ECU is $1000US or more. MAF (mass air flow) problems can impede acceleration on older Disco's and give a feeling of lack of power.
The '96 with 136K kilometers could be a prime candidate for sticking valve problems. The only Disco's who seem immune to this problem were the one's with the 3.9 engine. If your Disco has the 4.0 you could be looking at a very expensive valve job in the near future. The entire engine would be lifted, stripped and the exhaust valves cleaned or replaced. Usually about $2000US or more.
I have a '95 Disco with high mileage. It is expected to replace parts on older vehicle - especially with high mileage. What you have to prepare for is the price per part that LR charges. For example, I currently have to replace my power steering pump. The retail price is about $800US, a rebuilt is about $500, a wrecker (auto recycler) has the parts at about $100. If I was to change the pump on my Buick Park Avenue, it would retail for about $200, a rebuilt is about $100 and the wrecker has them for about $50. Almost the same pump! Why? That's the mystery.
If you are serious about the Disco, here's what I'd do:
take it to the nearest LR dealer (that you can trust) and have them do a through examination. Make sure they put it on the diagnostic machine (they may not do this unless you ask). It could cost you a few $AUS but its worth every dollar. They know where to look and will provide you a list of work areas and even an estimate.
With this sheet, you can then go back and bargain with the owner/dealer of the '96 Disco.
As for the '96 Jeep...if both were of equal value and condition, I'd choose the Disco in a heartbeat. We have lots of Jeeps around here in Quebec, Canada. Most '96 are loaded with rust and really look 9 years old. My '95 Disco looks almost new in comparison. It sits better (even with worn shocks!) and can still turn heads!
Performance wise, is a good question. The Disco is built rugged and for off-road conditions. You can see it in the heavy duty parts and suspension. It has a better ground clearance and combined with a good engine, can go thru some rough conditions. Jeeps are lighter and I don't think they were built for off-roading (maybe the CJ's). That question too is often debated but this owner will tell you that the Disco rules in off-roading. I've been thru some conditions that would amaze you.
Here in Canada, we can get some wild weather conditions: freezing rain, blizzards, heavy snowfalls, heavy rains with spring runoffs. After owning many vehicles, I would take a Disco out anytime in those conditions.
So that's about it. I hope this helps you in your decision. If you can afford to, take a look for a newer Disco. Most of the kinks found in the older models are fixed (ABS is the exception). HCE and ACE systems are now the problem areas but this is normal for new technology. Always wait a couple of years and the kinks will be fixed with these too!
Best of luck, Jonathan.
Regards from Canada,
JohnMc
