QuestionI think you are being unfare as regards the Discovery. I have had 2 and the only real problems I have had are oil leaks. The Disco's have preformed admirable for me since 1995. Also the cost of a Discovery is moderate when compared to other SUV's out there. You cannot get the high standards, the 4 wheel drive capability, and the features that you get on a Discovery on any other SUV at the price you pay for a Discovery.
AnswerJohn,
I have no trouble with performance. I would be first in line to compare my 10 year old Disco to any new SUV with regards to performance, power and style.
You are a fortunate owner to have only oil leaks as major problems. I, on the other hand, have been thru 3 alternators, 3 batteries, 4 shocks, 3 dampers, 4 balljoints, 2 stabalizer bars, 2 CV joints, 3 door lock repairs, 3 window failures, countless rear door hinge adjustments and replacements, hundred's of dollars in electrical malfunctions, peeling dashboards, engine idle failures, and the leaks...water, oil, tranny, brake, diffs, swivels... The only off roading I do is the gravel road that leads to my home from the highway. Most of my driving is highway. And after a $5000 front-end repair job, believe me when I say "I drive carefully!".
My difficulties lie NOT with the performance but when the components begin to fail and the over-priced parts and repair bills. Having only oil leaks does not qualify you to complain about the repairs and I am very glad you are one of the fortunate owners (as rare are they are).
What I like about the Disco has an equally long list...its that its overshadowed by major component failures, some design flaws and high repair bills. I would not wish this on any Disco owner.
I recently had my Disco repaired (CV AGAIN!). We rented a GMC ENVOY. It is a completely different SUV. Felt more like a Cadillac. Had a very comfortable ride, very quiet interior, lots of gadgets...But...I like my Disco...WHEN IT WORKS! You can't beat the firm handling and response of a well-tuned Disco. I've driven all sorts of SUV's and I still prefer the Disco.
10 years ago, $50,000 bought you quite alot of SUV. We had a choice between a Disco and the Ford Explorer ($15K less). We chose the Disco for its rugged reputation and unique style. While the Disco is under warranty, no complaints. When the warranty expires...that's another matter. It nice to own a vehicle that looks new even 10 years later but it has to be maintained and this is expensive.
Some say: "if you can't stand the heat..." but if the kitchen is always on fire...somethings wrong. I've been helping Disco owners for over 2 years and I seen lots of problems that face Disco owners. Is it worth it? You'd say "yes" based on your experience. I'd say "weigh the price of style and performance...its very high". Cost of ownership (not leasing) is the highest among SUV's. A Disco owner recently told me about an Auto book that gave Disco high pts on innovation and style but the lowest pts on after-warranty reliability and long-term ownership costs.
Lastly, my brother-in-law has always 'nailed' me about the high priced repairs I've had to make. I agree. Its a pain. He leases 4x4's and has had little trouble to face. BUT...I still remember the day I let him drive my (then) 7 year old Disco up a selective-cut mountain logging road in the heart of Tremblant Park, Quebec. He was like a child with a new toy. He'd never be able to take his 4x4's up those roads...we even passed some ATV's that were stuck in the mud... So, I never, ever, complain about the performance of my Disco. Simba is the best 4x4 by far. Its those @#%$& repair bills that make me angry.
This summer, I have to replace the front disc's and the calipers will have to be rebuilt or replaced ... again. Ouch.
JohnMc
