QuestionHi,
I am looking to trade my current Ford explorer LTD on the above vehicle test driving it on Monday.
Apart from the obvious used vehicle items that will be worn tyres . What should I be looking at in the area of major potential problems on this year Disco.
I am trading my Explorer as i am increasing my off road activities.
look forward to your reply. Kind Regards
Ian
AnswerHello Ian,
I have a '95 Disco manual and can give you some areas tips:
check for water damage in and around the driver and especially the passenger footwell. If you can lift the carpet, take a look and see if the floor is solid.
Check the door weld joints to see if they are sound. Cracks are signs of trouble.
Test all the power windows and door locks.
Look around the sunroofs for any leakage or water damage.
Rear door hinges can become weak over time. Take a close look at the hinges, locks and handle for abuse, wear or signs that they've been replaced.
Early Disco's have been known to have alternator problems. I've replace mine 3 times. Try to determine what engine work has been done and if the alt has been changed. Take the vehicle to a local LR dealer. For about $100 they can inspect and verify if it has been service according to warranty dates.
Since its a manual, the clutch should be simple to use: glides easily and almost effortlessly. Listen for strange sounds when shifting gears and clutching.
ABS system is very basic BUT sensors have been known to overreact. Watch for the ABS to light up when first started. Some owners were so fustrated with their ABS lights that they disconnected the light...some even disconnected the ABS itself. Look for this on your Disco.
I wish you luck. Remember, this repair work on this Disco will be about twice that of your Explorer...maybe even 4 times! A replacement clutch can run about $3000, transmission about $7000. R380 is fine tranny but very very expensive to replace.
Regards,
JohnMc
