QuestionI'm thinking about purchasing a late model range rover sport, possibly a 2004 or 2005 model. What can I expect for the cost of maintenance? Can I change the oil and other fluids myself? What's the average cost for repairs?
AnswerHi Karrie,
be careful what you wish for...
maintaining a LR - especially a Range Rover - is expensive unless you can do it yourself. Even then, its expensive.
IF your Rangie ever breaks down and you have to rely upon a dealership...ouch. Parts are priced high, labour is high, JD Powers rates them a one of the lowest in reliability...its a big risk.
Make sure you trust the sellor; have the vehicle inspected by a dealer BEFORE you buy - will cost you but worth the price. If its a LR dealership, your risk is lower BUT you never know.
what to expect...
Spark plug and wire replacement could cost you up to $1000; $800 if the dealer replaces your fluids; $2500 for headgasket replacement (a common problem); window, door lock faults (common) varies from $400 to $1200;
Oil changes are like any other vehicle but spark plugs and wires require some experience with LR engines and is labour intensive.
I really don't have the average maintenace costs but if you want to talk to other Rangie owners, go to the following website:
www.discoweb.org and go to the Range Rover forum. You'll have plenty of responses from fellow Rangie owners and a better 'heads up' on what to look for in your '04 or '05 model.
Best of luck,
JohnMc
