How Much Does An OLD LAND ROVER COST To Own? Here's What We Spent In The First Five Months!

What does an old land rover cost to own? Well, we've spent five months with ours and we'll gladly tell you what we've spent so far to get our 1998 Discovery 1 up to snuff.
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[@andrewgulland3925]

We have a phrase here in the U.K. ...’Land Rover turning owners into mechanics for the last 70 years’. Good luck.

[@user-fn1rb9ze6p]

To be fair to this D1 its a 25 year old car and shes still rolling im not sure many new vehicles will be rolling around on the roads at 25 😄 love these cars 👍

[@andrewgulland3925]

@@user-fn1rb9ze6pI have had three of them, both 200 and 300 TDI’s (I live in the U.K.) and they were all amazing vehicles. So simple to work on, reliable, the diesels are great on MPG, and enough space to be a true utility vehicle. The only reason I don’t have one now is because of the ULEZ…

[@scott5106]

Love the video! I've had 4 Rovers one RR and 3 discovery 2's. All were still running when they left the driveway, the last one was $4,500 and I had to replace the power steering pump and the passenger side exhaust manifold and down pipe gaskets... about $250ish. So $4,750 for an off road with locking differentials. I've done lots of repairs and they've never left me stranded, might be better not to share the word that these are under rated and under valued.

[@josephnieves9924]

Discovery 2 owner since 2017 there is not other vehicle out there like it 194k miles goes everywhere, I just keep it maintained. I just completed the in line thermostat upgrade big difference!

[@trevorness4599]

Love your channel. I just bought a 98 D1 for $4k, came from Colorado....its a lot of fun!

[@MattKester]

Nice! How's it treating you so far?

[@charredskeleton]

Your photography and camera work is top notch and your editing is good to very good. Honestly better then a lot of channels with 100k subscribers. Better than most of the channels I watch and subscribe to in fact. Truly a lot of potential. I can see what is holding you back, but believe unsolicited criticism to be the cancer of youtube.

[@ChuckUnderFire]

That 4 day adventure through your engine bay was probably the most realistic depiction I’ve ever seen on wrenching on your own vehicle….. in particular the FML look on your face at the end giving almost zero Fs anymore by the time you finally get to turn the thing over.

[@16vPete]

I just picked up a '97! Stoked for more videos here. There are a few little things to sort out under the hood, and the paint needs a good cut and polish, but otherwise its in great shape for 182,000 miles

[@MattKester]

That's awesome! It's just insane how overlooked these things have been all because no one wanted to put in a little bit of time.

[@InputCity]

If you're young and looking for fun you won't walk past a Disco!!

[@tamatomlinson]

I’ve just done exactly this. Picking her up in 2 weeks

[@julianlay8681]

I'm from Argentina. My late Dad bought a Discovery 1 1995 in 2004, it was used until 2017 when he got sick. It remained under our eaves for 6,7 years. The day before yesterday we put a new battery on it... and it started normally! yes, they spit oil like hell but... i love it :D

[@timk5967]

Nice job, pays to investigate quotes and recommendations, knowledge is invaluable

[@MattKester]

Thanks, Tim! It definitely does... one of the best lessons I learned working in the corporate world, ALWAYS get more than one price!

[@СергейБулатошкин]

Discovery has a new life, with a new master.👍👍👍. Keep it up.🤝. Good luck on your channel.

[@MattKester]

Thank you!

[@user-fn1rb9ze6p]

Thats a nice example take care of her my friend 😊👍

[@robertcraven1771]

I’ve had 2, honestly I always preferred them to the Ranges.

[@pogues1]

In England that would be a 200 TDI diesel, last forever (rust notwithstanding), but you would lose your teeth fillings from the vibration.

[@sarahdell4042]

Are the 300 tdi uncomfortable?

[@PillSharks]

@@sarahdell4042 I’ve run a 200tdi for over 20 years and I’ve had a few 300 tdi and both great engines… if you want to get any real information on any Land Rover product don’t come to KZbin as it’s nearly always wrong or deliberately hyped up!

[@sarahdell4042]

@@PillSharks I ended up buying a 300tdi defender. I love it.

[@PillSharks]

@@sarahdell4042 good to hear. You won’t be disappointed providing you follow a few simple things. Keep it serviced with good quality parts, keep it clean underneath and don’t be afraid to put some paint on the chassis and drive it like a Land Rover should be! I honestly don’t understand why people say they have so many problems… I also run 3 defenders ( 2 td5s and 1 puma) for mooring work on ships and they regularly tow well beyond the 3500 kgs Land Rover recommend and between them they must have a combined age of over 50 years now and they give great service.

[@sarahdell4042]

@@PillSharks I’ve been driving mine daily for months. Spent a lot of time sorting it out, and making sure everything was in perfect order. Very easy to work on!

[@yjmsrv]

Land Rovers- always broken- but never broken down! I've had my 2003 D2 for 9 years and it's never left me stranded and out-performed many Jeeps off road without breathing hard at all. As long as you're willing and able to do most of the work yourself- you'll find Discovery's to be extremely capable off-road and inexpensive to maintain- about the same maintenance cost of any off-road used truck. Its the Land Rover Specialist shops that will get you- their labor and parts mark ups are insane. That's why I bought the RAVE manual and started on my own. Also- quick side note- if my motor ever does go completely (it's a built top-hat sleeved Atlantic British 4.6 so it should last) Alternative Conversions now have an LS swap kit- which is what I'd do next time. It wasn't available back when I got the 4.6 from AB- but it will be in my future at some point.

[@MattKester]

I've been eyeing that LS swap kit for a little while. You could probably pull a junkyard LS and get it done for quite a bit less than a new 4.6 too!

[@PillSharks]

Well said mate. Anyone who’s driven Land Rovers for anytime will know this.. yes they have problems but they will always nearly get you home so the problem can be fixed! I’ve owned the same Land Rover defender 200tdi for 20 years and it’s covered 300,000 miles now and in all that time it’s left me about a mile from my house when the clutch exploded. Yes it’s has problems like oil leaks and it’s had a couple of steering boxes on it but it’s done just fine and is my everyday work vehicle. My wife drives a td5 2001 discovery my father had from new, that’s taken us all over Europe and Scandinavia and the last big trip was nearly 5000 miles in just over 2 weeks up inside the artic circle towing a small ex army Sankey trailer, that trip we wild camped…me, my my wife and 2 teenaged sons! About 100 miles north of Stockholm the alternator packed up which was only 2 months old, I cooked the original by not connecting the battery terminals tight after replacing the battery…stupid but just forgot. Lol I managed to get. Second had alternator and we got home without any problems… that was a Denso unit which I believe is Japanese!!! The main things you need to do to keep them reliable is to service them, use good quality parts, keep them clean and drive them like they should be driven and not driven like a bloody racing car! Everything you would do with a normal car but unfortunately when these vehicles get to 20 years old they get neglected and then problems happen… most vehicles have been scrapped by that time!

[@micah_mudflaps]

There is way to much noise about early Discoverys being unreliable. I see no problems with them that you wouldn’t have with any old Chevy/Ford/GMC or even Toyota. I had more problems with my ‘99 Rav4 than with my ‘97 Discovery.

[@DJ-uv7lw]

I own a 100 series Land Cruiser, that said; my favorite vehicles are the Discos. Be 100% honest, how hard was the head gasket to replace? How many bananas was that job. 1- banana being an oil change 5- bananas being oh crap what did I do?

[@MattKester]

Probably about a three and half. It’s really not that hard, aside from a couple 1/2 and 3/8 drive swivels and a twelve point 9mm (I believe), there’s no need for any special tools outside what you’d find in most DIYr’s toolboxes, everything is bolt up and simple that way. The hardest part for me was figuring out what portions of the RAVE manual to use, as the directions were originally written for the V8’s with a distributor-based engine management system, as opposed to the GEMS coil-based unit we have, so you’ve got to figure out where to stitch in the supplemental instructions inside the RAVE manual, as there are some different disassembly/reassembly steps for that particular intake manifold. The only real panic moment I had was when I snapped off a thermostat housing bolt and had to walk to the store to get a helicoil kit, since the wife drove the 4Runner to work that day. Honestly, I’d rather change out head gaskets on the Rover every 75k miles than do a timing belt every 90k on the 4Runner!

[@peverill64]

The main thing about keeping costs down is your ability to do the repairs yourself. Had you hired someone to do the repairs, then triple that cost. I also think it depends where you are. Out here the Land Rover Discovery is a minority vehicle, so parts cost much more and shipping in parts kills you because of the shipping fees. Overall it is a very reliable vehicle. Can I suggest that you make a video on the Disco suspension, as they do have great suspension that gives a great ride... Love the videos..

[@MattKester]

Good points, thank you! Are there any particular aspects or interesting facts you think would be the most important to cover in a suspension video?

[@peverill64]

@@MattKester You could do a comparison with your other Toyota. Although I think Toyota makes better engines, they still can't beat the suspension of the Discovery. I think it makes a very smooth ride. I do know for a fact though that the engine head is better than the Mitsubishi. You drive a Mitsubishi and break a timing belt, it will destroy the engine head... Disco will just bend all the valve... Forgot what you call them.. Lol

[@silverchief3331]

I'm in Phoenix .July 2020 I located a 2003 Disco 2 with 150k miles in Tuscon for $3200.00.. Straight clean ticking engine with cold A/c. I went all in building the Disco.. steel Bumpers, Badland winches..Baja Racks ,old man emu 3 inch lift., $1700. Dura trax tires.. (Discount tires) EBC drilled slotted Brakes, head gaskets, valve cover gaskets, oil pump, water pump ,radiator, new rear hubs with bearings. I rebuilt the transfer case in my garage for $250 in parts.. ((Its easier than y0u think) UHF and CB 10 meter radios. Slide out 48 qt ICECO FREEZER refrigerator. Solor panels and a 1000 watt Jackery from AMAZON prime day...$700.00. .. I spent $13,500..i was just offered $25k.usd..Runs great ... BUT now dropping in a LS gen 4 5.3 liter .. RELIABLE MOTOR for $5000 installed.. 2400 rebuild and the LS kit is another 2700.00.. easy to install bolts right up to trans .

[@Kris-jk9mq]

I am in Tucson, Might need your help rebuilding the LT230 transfer case on mine someday soon! Sounds like a killer build there you got! Bet that LS makes this old tank boogie!

[@lonewolf30531]

Thanks for content. The money spent totally worth it. I think the disco gen-1 will reach the defender level. What radio did you guy for the disco?

[@MattKester]

Sony DSXA415BT - amzn.to/2OGk1yJ Nothing special, just the cheapest option with available bluetooth handsfree and a USB aux line to stream music through.

[@freqeist]

i always buy unseen...its part of the game.

[@arnog9959]

Same AC issue, no switch light on ac or recirc.

[@MattKester]

So, I ended up finding the problem with ours was one of the wires going to the front AC fans had abraded on a radiator bracket and was grounding out and blowing fuses. I clipped it, soldered it back together and put some heat shrink and new wire loom around it and it's been going great!

[@raymondlogister6828]

The Disco 1 is a great vehicle. The problem what you American people have that you not can buy a 200 TDi or 300 Tdi. Then you have not so much problem then what you have with this old Buck V8 engine. But you you make a great choice. A lot off fun with the discovery. ATB Raymond

[@MattKester]

Thanks Raymond! Yeah, we really missed out! Every once in a while you can either find one for sale where someone swapped a TDI into a NAS Disco, or, now that they’re in the 25 and older club, we are starting to see some imports, but they usually start around $12k, so it’s definitely a big jump in dollars to get into one! There is one for sale on Craigslist that I can’t tell if it’s FOB in Spain, or if it has already landed stateside that’s catching my eye... a LHD three door with a 200TDI and a manual. If only I had an extra $10k in the bank! Anyone wanna buy a clean, four owner 3rd Gen 4Runner? Lol

[@benjaminwiebe5631]

Thank you very much for your videos I want to try that myself,

[@MattKester]

It's definitely an adventure. You just gotta take the first step.

[@deefox4138]

when you say $4400 for a d1 i think its a lot but im from the uk and paid £1000 for a rust free d1 300tdi auto which is very lucky as all cars from the uk have rusted out by now but the market in US sounds so much different brilliant vehicles non the less

[@MattKester]

Yeah, I hear that a lot from people in the UK. I imagine there's quite a few more of them over there than here, and you guys pay such a high premium for fuels, no one's gonna wanna drive one all that frequently when there's way more fuel efficient options available. But, that's just me speculating.

[@deefox4138]

@@MattKester you couldnt be more right 25 mpg over here is pretty bad but im sure in america that would be considered good im happy to pay the 1.22 a liter which is $5.26 a us gallon just because i love the car

[@flight2k5]

The Pacific Northwest isn’t a rust belt

[@MattKester]

No, i never said it was the “rust belt,” but the atmospheric and road conditions there are more conducive for vehicles to rust out faster than somewhere like the Southwest or Southern California.

[@flight2k5]

@@MattKester I am currently living in Washington and i rarely see any vehicle with rust. In fact a local land cruiser shop said the pac nor west was a secret gem to locate good vehicles.

[@WadeGauthier]

I have thought about Land Rover 🤔 but not that much of a gambling man. Buying one used is like choosing to play three card Monty. Chances are I would come up the looser.

[@jonredd650]

The old saying, everyone can afford to buy one but you can't afford to own one!🤷🏼‍♂️

[@andyperry2973]

Bargain.

[@MattKester]

We think so! Thanks!

[@yo2748]

My 1998 Discovery TDI 300 has got 240.000km not had one problem funny cause on KZbin they always do

[@Queensizemusic]

I’m stoked for you. And the nice thing is, you’ll probably have far fewer issues with her than had you purchased the Discovery II.

[@MattKester]

Thank you, that definitely played a huge part in the calculus of taking this project on. It’s definitely been a cool experience!

[@joseavitia1054]

50/50 I’ve spent less on my disco II. Granted I inspected the hell out of it before buying but I will say doing the head gaskets is a cakewalk lol. At least for me because I came from bmws

[@bohicajohnson7203]

I've spent very little on my D2. The most expensive thing was the Nanocom. I have the TD5. Bought in Sept 2015. The traction control is amazing.

[@dieselburner4461]

But wait until the D2 surprises you with alllllll the infamous issues lol

[@CJ-rk5eg]

I owned the 1998 discovery like this one just in green. Loved a lot about it. Solid build and cavernous storage space. Hated the repair bills. Every 6 mos cost me a grand for something unexpected. How could such unreliability take you overland presumably across continents? Had to sell it. And eventually a guy who always wanted one since he was a kid bought it.

[@dominiccox8294]

Really loving the Land Rover discovery thingy, had mine for 20 years

[@MattKester]

Hopefully we'll get to enjoy ours for nearly as long!

[@alejandrolemmo]

Very happy to see this channel grow! Greta content! Definitely want to see more of that Disco. Cheers.

[@MattKester]

Thank you! If I can ever get the wife to stop driving it long enough, we’ll keep making videos of it, it’s definitely the fan favorite around here!

[@jefferybrown3845]

I’m glad you listed the WJ as an exception. My needed work but I believe the odometer was 112,000 when I bought for $2500 (including tax).

[@gibrigg]

Great content. I love my Xterra, but also appreciate a good video on Landrovers- especially learning from your experience working on it yourself.

[@MattKester]

Thanks! Which generation Xterra do you have? They are definitely an under-appreciated vehicle too!

[@gibrigg]

Mine is a 2014 with 40k miles. It’s in great shape, so I’m babying it while I slowly upgrade it for adventures. Coolest upgrade so far is 255/85/16 tires- love them!

[@MrJahkobo]

Your content inspires me so much to take care my 97 Land Rover. Im not a mechanic but I can do most common diy things. I one thing I want to ask is how did you install your Sony deck and if you bought speakers for it.

[@MattKester]

Thanks Johnny. It wasn’t too bad, the previous owner had already installed an aftermarket single din that was missing a faceplate. I was able to disconnect the butt connectors for that unit’s harness and solder ours in. Used the little sheet metal sleeve that come with our unit to slide into the factory hole and it snapped right in. We did not upgrade any speakers... we’re not really audiophiles, just need to be able to hear something other than the drone of the engine, right?

[@LiLDiddee]

Just received my valve cover gaskets and valley gasket from AB. You have to use a sealant for the valley gasket?

[@MattKester]

The RAVE calls for using RTV under the curved rubber tabs that go under the end brackets. Ours started leaking out the back of the valley pan within a week of doing the HG job the first time. Used a heavy duty RTV the second time and it seems to be holding.

[@LiLDiddee]

@@MattKester Thanks, I received the end seals as well. '97 SD with 85k.

[@AddictedMotors]

That's why you should own two..

[@keegenmueller6902]

Another excellent video! Love these disco videos

[@davidrose1675]

Been lucky with my disco 1. Paid $2700 for it in australia, 6 years later i've only really changed the fluids on it a few times nothing else and still starts on the key.

[@lexiaontube]

Looks like I'm about to do the educated mistake of buying a Discovery 1 V8 (again...) 20 years ago i had the 2.5 EDC and really enjoyed it despite the lack of power

[@MattKester]

Yeah, but I'm fairly certain it'll be a mistake you won't soon regret! Those diesel models must have been insanely underpowered considering how underpowered the V8's are by today's standards!

[@Zusu91]

Thanks for all the amazing videos! I'm a proud owner of a 95 3.9 Disco named Zeppelin. Unfortunately, KZbin doesn't have many liable or clear vids on series 1 Disco's... I don't want to turn your channel into a Disco "How to" channel, but I think that you might be our savior! Could you please give us more in-depth videos of what you and how you do it? Thanks anyways!

[@neillcampbell3138]

What is your time worth?

[@SiCrewe]

Land Rovers rarely "suddenly" go wrong. There are usually signs, if you look for them - and don't ignore them when you see them. Maybe it's overkill but, after buying an LR, and inspecting it, I'd suggest looking for replacements for any suspect parts, getting them refurbished and then fitting the replacement can be a "routine" job rather than a crisis. Once you've fitted the replacement, you can always sell the original part to recoup some of your outlay.

[@MattKester]

Good call, I feel like that’s going to be a big part of phase two of this operation... get out ahead of it!

[@hammyh1165]

Was going to say pretty much the same . Try and stay ahead of repairs . I've had twenty years of Landy ownership and have just got myself a 98 Disco 1 , nothing puts me off owning it . My Landys have actually been the most reliable motors I've owned and cheap to repair as I do it myself , the cars I've had have cost me a lot more. Even tyres are cheaper for the Disco .

[@toddhoffmaster6057]

I want an LR so bad and it’s all your fault. Great video and content, love the new channel. It’s nice to see someone who is on a budget and not just buying the most expensive things on the market just to compete with the Jones’s.

[@MattKester]

Thanks Todd! I think we do this so we can get ahead of the Jones’s! Kinda hard for them to be able to get away for many trips or have any money to go on said trips when they’re working ungodly hours so the bank will let them keep all those fancy toys!

[@The_Mister]

But 112,000 miles on a Land Rover does not equal 112,000 miles on a Toyota. That thing looks clapped out at 112k.

[@gregreed402]

Nice one , these wagons are definitely worth it. But like any vehicle the lower the mileage and less owners owning it preferably a one owner ,who has had it from new is the ultimate choice . I just purchased a 1995 Range Rover Mark 1 TDI 2.5 litre and done 87000 miles . It’s been regularly serviced and never off road . It’s mint for it age and just cruises . I’m getting the cam belt done next week as per specs. I like your videos cheers 👍👍👍👍🇳🇿🇳🇿🇳🇿🇳🇿🍺🍺🍺🍺

[@DAJANEM99]

I have a 2004 Discovery 2, 4.6L that’s been in storage. It’s runs but needs some work including head gaskets, interior trim pieces, leaks oil everywhere. The good news is I’m mechanically inclined the bad news is I don’t know if I want to fix everything only to have something catastrophic happen. Decisions. 😊

[@Kris-jk9mq]

HEY Just FYI the AC blower selector is prone to lots of issues. You can take the switch apart and clean it, OR swap with the REAR AC controls if you have them! What I did. Anyhow 96' Disco Here, welcome to the Rover Club! Tucson, AZ here, you appear to be around here??

[@wjsj69]

It's 20+ years old. That equals a rolling restoration at minimum, no matter what it is. If you look at it with realistic expectations, Old Rovers are pretty dang good. Having extra parts donors are very helpful for keeping old, foreign vehicle going. Even if it's just to help figure out issues and get running in a pinch. Just don't expect a good value from a Rover newer than '04 ..as bad as a Wrangler or Toyota for the money.

[@rexyates1057]

I got a 2000 land rover for 500.00 with 67,000 miles on it in very good shape, it had the saggy headliner, the rear sunroof was just starting to leak, and it needed head gaskets but still ran great just used a little water. it was swapped over to the coil springs, and had the windows tinted, about 3/4 tread on it's 2nd set of tires, no rust never been off road, perfect paint, (kent green) all the service records and owners manuals and paperwork when they bought it in 2004. the only thing it needed right away was a new battery, so i drove it for a short time before replacing the head gaskets (no slipped liner) did plugs,wires, all new coolant hoses oil change and flushed radiator. then put off road lights on it and haven't had any problems so far ( knock on wood )

[@Coordinator61]

Did you check out the camshaft, followers, timing chain too? Common fault on all Rover V-8 engines.

[@mphillips5366]

Whats up. Ive got a Disco 1 too. Also a high mileage Ford. Atlantic British s a great recommendation. I just wanted to note. If your mechanic is good he may bill you for something not immediately needed. Sounds shady, but its an investment in your mechanics time. It allows them to work on other maintenance items needing to be addressed. Cleaning and checking solenoids, tightening bushings and mounts, replacing gaskets, etc. Items that only cost him $50 each to do, but if he gives you a list of 50 items, odds are youll neglect to do the maintenance and even look for another shop. Idea ( if your mechanic is reputable ) is that he will add years to the existing parts on your car. $1200 addition today could add 50k miles to your rig. Im not a mechanic and don't own the tools. Sometimes it helps to invest in your local certified mechanic.

[@mybrilliantlife9476]

oh wow, i got you past the number of the beast likes, number 667, love the mechanic description, its a tough job, did it for 8 years in the Army, but there's no call for rip offs, there's plenty of work out there

[@brianfloster2609]

I know I'm late to the party commenting here - but just to correct the record Pacific Northwest vehicles are not rust prone.. Yes it rains here in the winter, but we don't have road salt at all even if it happens to snow. I have a 2002 Nissan Pathfinder that has spent it's entire life in Oregon, and there isn't a speck of rust on it- and that's very typical for vehicles here.

[@lisafaith66]

I have a 98 that two mechanics now cannot figure out why it idles why too high? 2500-3000 rpm's.

[@jonredd650]

Kinda like Polo, if you have to ask how much it cost you can't afford it!?!?🤷🏼‍♂️

[@hxgianni1]

I own a 2000 p38, at the beginning when I purchased it it gave me some issues because of lack on maintenance from previous owner, after that 12 years later 198000 miles is going strong. It will cost you some $ if you bought a not well maintained Landy. Besides that, Discovery 1 are bullet proof !

[@MattKester]

That's what we are finding out! This thing is quite the awesome rig!

[@harowario3712]

I am in prayer to get financial help to service my old land rover discovery 1.

[@rolandbrown4572]

2nd Hand Overland. I LOVE your channel. It inspired me to get a Disco. I couldn't find a clean D1 for a fair price (PNW prices are skyrocketing) so I ended up with a D2. Thanks for the great videos and maybe I'll see you on the trail someday. PS the red Disco you showed in the PNW is a DEATHTRAP. I test drove it and didn't have the guts to go over 35 mph it was so bad. The owner was in the passenger seat grimacing when i told him how fast we were going HAHAHA.

[@MattKester]

Thank you Roland! I hope your experience is as positive as ours, I think if you know what you’re getting into, which you do, a D2 should be just fine! I hope we see you out there sometime!

[@rolandbrown4572]

@@toothless_trex1272 Thanks for the tips Woody! I'm in maintenance mode for now so I'll check all the lines and replace as needed.

[@MattKester]

Definitely do the coolant lines! They’re pretty cheap for the piece of mind you get with fresh ones!

[@federicoacker5672]

Mate: even when you came from Toyota background, you have all the things needed for a Land Rover Owner, and the most important thing is: Sense of Humor!!!, about the costs, I think early Discoverys are very underrated and unappreciated in present day, because you go out to try to buy one, and usually they been very neglected maintained (big mistake) and worst used by people who believe 4WDs are Helicopters with wheels... But I think that the day will come when Disco 1 and 2 (specially 1) will be very estimated and the prices will go up, because they were the last real Land Rovers (apart from Defenders), no electronics, great performers, easy to fix and maintain, and the thing that they induce you to work in them, and learn about what is a 40.000 pieces machine like a car, and how does it works and why, can be very useful in a tough situation in the middle of nowhere... Cheers!

[@geoffpriestley7001]

Im in the uk we ran 2 disco for the work both diesel manual transmission . They where racked out for carrying heating spares and equipment. The 4 wheel drive was good in winter when you wher out in the yorkshire dales but parts and servicing cost . I have to admit ine the 3 years they did 200,000 miles each so it was servicing every 2 to 3 months and usually a couple if clutch every year probably due to over loading and the fact you couldn't always get it out ot 4 wheel drive . I know when i sold the one i drove there wasn't a light on it that wasn't cracked and the inner front fender plastic trim had rubbed holes thought the outer fender . This was due to vibration from the diesel it used to shake like a wet dog when the engine was turned off . The roof rack ( not rover produced) collapsed on both of them, if you like abusing cars these are the ones to go for

[@MattKester]

Good to know we can expect quite a bit from it!

[@buffalosouljyah3060]

Awesome!!!!!!!!!!

[@MattKester]

Thank you’

[@chloesilva8794]

I would have totally rolled the dice on the disco too. So Cal and 👇 mileage 😘👌Lol if you want a solid, honest mechanic in the phx area, can't say enough good things about Bryden's on McDowell. He was clutch when I was shopping for my 4R. Congrats on the new partnership!

[@MattKester]

Thanks, I'll definitely call him if we need some work done! Fortunately, I think we are fairly caught up on the 4Runner for a while... I hope!

[@pbozman]

Nice, i did the same 4 years ago, bought a 1994 discovery... the difference is the engine, we don't have many petrol v8 around, its diesel the 300tdi, and its easy and cheap to fix, bought mine for 4500€ until nown spend around 5000€...and a free course of DIY :-)

[@MattKester]

I’d love to get a TDI! We are starting to see diesel imports showing up more over here, but they usually start at about double what we’ve got into this one so far. We’ll have to save up some bucks to make that happen, for sure!

[@prestonhenry6034]

just discovered your channel and your videos have made me more hyped than ever to finally pull the trigger on a Disco!

[@MattKester]

Nice! I think you'll enjoy it!

[@german996]

We had 2 D1, we loved them, we moved on, now we have a LR3 which we love more than the D1, we are not extreme off roaders, the D1 were definitely way too much for what we do, I am always lurking CL for another D1 to add to our stable, had 3rd Gen 4runner, we were not happy with it, it lacked the Character of the D1, it had a lift, tires, snorkel, roof rack, water tank, but we were always missing our Land Rovers, we sold it and bought the LR3 for $7000 plus about $1000 in needed repairs, we have taken her to different trails and places every weekend and we love it more and more. Once you go Rover you do not go back, it is like an addiction.

[@MattKester]

Agreed. We love our 3rd Gen, but the Disco is definitely a different experience, and one we quite enjoy! You've actually kinda peaked my interest in LR3's now... especially since I just remembered they've got one of Ford's better V8's from that era under that hood.

[@german996]

@@MattKester I can say, that after more than dozens of cars and trucks, that the LR3 has been the best all arounder vehicle, we love it! we are actually looking to sell my wifes Pilot and buying another LR3.

[@MattKester]

@@german996 dang! That really makes it tempting since I’m seeing more than a few of them starting to have price tags pretty comparable to a third Gen!

[@lchavez5924]

Thumbs up on Atlantic British!!! Love their videos and yours! But on a relevant note, Land Rover and Lotus have been making mechanics out of their owners!

[@MattKester]

You know, I’ve kinda been thinking I ought to save up for an Evora someday just to see if that’s true!

[@rosendodominguez9833]

I wonder threw it back all the way to England

[@conrad1468]

Atlantic British is a great company. Lots of good disco parts.

[@MattKester]

Couldn't agree more. We tried some other vendors out when we got into this, but I definitely learned the hard way that if you need it correct and on-time, they're the ones to call!

[@alanesparza896]

Ouch my pockets

[@NicholasBlake84]

Interesting video. I Don't know how much this guy knows about Land Rover. I see he knows how to fix a car which is great but most old Land Rovers are low miles because repairs are so high they tend to just sit. I would feel more secure finding a 2005 LR4 with 150k than one with 75k.....

[@craigbutler623]

Discovery 1 is pretty damn simple, and I haven't found anything expensive beside the windshield.

[@stuartdavis8200]

Hi mate Stu from Perth down under again. I too think they offer a lot of bang for buck on load carrying, towing and also off road ability (mine has 2” lift, Detroit locker in the rear and a winch, pretty much goes anywhere and we tow a camper trailer all over WA which is super remote). The one thing I will say is, for the love of God, don’t overheat it, even a little. They can slip liners (I had this and have a “top hat” engine now at 4K AUD... with me fitting it) RPI engineering does a good video on top hat engines and slipped liners FYI. Get an Engine Guard would be my advice which is essentially an overheating alarm. PS ARP head studs a smart move - it helps prevent cracked blocks where the casting is inconsistent and thin and angular tension bolts over stress the block when coupled with the heating cycles. Look after the car it will look after you IMO. All the best mate, Stuart.

[@MattKester]

Hey Stu! Hope all is well in Western Australia today! Funny you mention the ARP studs, this week’s video is on why we chose them over bolts on our head gasket job, but I had never even considered the benefits you mention with the heat cycling! Good thing I’ve got to reshoot the piece to camera this morning, I’ll try to include some of that. I’m definitely gonna make sure to put some sort of engine guard or scan gauge in place to monitor the heat, as we live in one of the hottest parts of the United States!

[@TheTomco11]

Such a shame you guys didn't get the 300tdi. Bulletproof engine, it's what you'll find in disco 1's round the world. The bored out rover v8's were developed when land rover couldn't afford to develop a new v8 and they're the reason for land rover's reputation in the US. The tdi is the most appropriate engine for it, and its the reason disco 1's tend to be killed by rust rather than mechanical failure

[@MattKester]

Seriously... One of these days I'm going to get my hands on one!

[@hladonkey26g]

Sorry you had such a problem with the unmentioned company. Glad you doing well with the truck. You have them big issues fix enjoy her.

[@MattKester]

Thanks, David! We certainly are enjoying her. Such an amazing vehicle!

[@OverlandPNW]

Very nice ! I'd love a Land Rover.

[@MattKester]

Do it! You could could probably buy a six pack of them for what that fifth gen would fetch on the market right now!

[@Djdrunkdad]

What tires did you put on there

[@egod9935]

I just got a 1998 Land Rover LE and I’m up in Prescott Arizona so this is great for info on places to go on adventures and for repairs. Thanks bud

[@MattKester]

Anytime! Be sure to follow us on Instagram or Facebook as we might have a few Arizona events on the horizon! You definitely live in a good spot to enjoy that Disco, that's for sure!

[@jermbob92]

We got extremely lucky and found a 04 disco 2 with 98k miles picked her up for 6200. Has a roof rack, the led lights, bar tube front bumper n 8k lb warn winch. We drove 6 hours to get it . The market here in central Florida doesn’t seem to be too hot for discovery’s for whatever reason. Everywhere you go though wranglers galore though!

[@MattKester]

That’s a hell of a score! That’s a lot of value just in the accessories! Nice work.

[@jermbob92]

@@MattKester thank you, unfortunately on the way back, our 04 f250 starting throwing injector codes and had to limp 6 hours home. Win some, lose some I guess lol And quick question when you all did the head studs and gaskets, what coolant did you all replenish with?

[@MattKester]

@@jermbob92 oh no! That’s never a happy place to be! I believe it was Jay-Z who said it best, “If you’re having Power Stroke problems, I feel bad for you son... I got 99 problems, but a 6.0 ain’t one!” In all seriousness, though, I hope it is something that isn’t too bad, cause for all its faults, it’s still a pre-2007 diesel which means no DPF or SCR system, which is a headache no one ever deserved! As for the coolant, just the good old green Prestone phosphate glycol type. 50/50 mix with distilled water.

[@jermbob92]

@@MattKester awesome, thanks for the coolant info.. As far as the 6.0 , yes another one of those “notorious” vehicles to avoid BUT still a vehicle capable to work on your own if apt and able to! Again thanks for the response, and the great videos. It was your budget vehicles under 5000 is what gave the nudge to finally leap into the disco world.

[@sleepycatpictures1176]

Good effort! Well Done that man!

[@MattKester]

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@RichGallant]

D2 owner here, you hit the nail on the head as far as doing your own repairs. These are, under all the stuff, pretty basic vehicles, head gaskets are simple because they are pushrod engine, no timing to mess with. The drive train is solid and durable. The weakest point is the the Aluminum V8, but if you keep the temps down by adjust the cooling system you reduce thermal cycling and reduce the likelihood of of issues in that area. Other than that for those looking at one of these maintenance is a regular thing, as with any 16+ year old truck.

[@dalamar6228]

Great engine. Same lump powers my TVR sportscar from 95 here in the UK. Looking forward to more videos of you working on the engine.

[@MattKester]

Thanks, glad you found us! TVR, yet another cool thing we didn’t really get over here, but were made aware of playing Gran Turismo as a kid. There’s a reason I watched Swordfish about six times when it was in the theaters, and it wasn’t Halle Berry’s boobs, it was that irridescent Tuscan!

[@scootypuffjr.]

It is not a great engine.

[@toomanyanon3345]

You didn't mention the Mits Pajero as excellent and affordable alternative

[@MattKester]

Actually, we have. Go check out the Budget Overland Alternatives video that is the trailer on this channel’s homepage. It’s one of the five vehicles we feature in that video.

[@terryharvey9815]

Loved my 98 Disco bought it new fit like a glove. Muddy weekends with the guys it was fun for a year maybe, But after driving the loaner car from the shop about the same as my own truck had to trade it for a Toyota. I don’t even know where a shop is anymore. But good for all you guys with a disco in the drive and a Toyota or Honda that you actually drive to work.👍🏽

[@harrij19]

Love the vids. The Disco 1 thread has made me a follower. I have a fire Engine red D1 in Switzerland, an oiler, last week changed the head gasket. I love mine to bits 1996, 71K miles. Looking forward to more content from your great channel. making me fall even deeper in love with Heidi my Swiss miss.

[@MadFordEngineering]

A rot free Discovery is a dream in the UK Matt, never been seen yet lol

[@Robert-xb6pq]

I love my Disco 2. It's a '04 and in awesome shape but definitely requires owner input. As a result I know my rig and confidently wheel her.

[@vincentpoole7588]

Fed. Truly well considered shout out to British Atlantic/Pacific close to home ! As this rig is approaching +25 years in age, consider asking for their clearance list of spare parts before they runout ? V.

[@billybiker1383]

Good job on the Disco dude, looking good 😌

[@MattKester]

Thanks!

[@davidcraemer8227]

As oil leaks are very common problem with these land rovers. I think the mechanic's intention was to not take a chance and rather do a complete job.

[@angelaclose4460]

Great buy entertaining vid

[@MattKester]

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@ernipalmer3134]

You will fall in love with the d1 enjoy

[@MattKester]

I'm enamored with it!

[@rustishackleford3354]

Roads are not salted for snow out here in the pacific northwest, so there is no major issues with rust.

[@prestonhenry6034]

Just thought I'd come back and mention , I PULL THE TRIGGER ON THAT DISCO II I MENTIONED A COUPLE WEEKS AGO! AND I LOOOVE IT!! still gotta work the kinks out but can already tell this is a vehicle I will have for a very long time. Thank you for your informative, entertaining and high-quality vids man and keep up the good work! DISCO 4 LYFE

[@MattKester]

Thanks, Preston! Enjoy the journey with your Disco, we’ve definitely been enjoying ours! Just did a 600 mile three night overland trip with it and had zero issues! Tag us on Instagram @2ndHandOverland with some photos of your new ride!

[@patrickjobling8676]

Well mr pilgrim ..that was a bunch of funnins .. 😍😎😁

[@andrewcolley1661]

I think I might mentioned that I could provide a tip on the A/C. I have this exact truck but diesel. I bought it knowing the A/C needed attention. I needed a new or reconditioned compressor and I couldn't find anything from a local Australian provider for less than $AU1250. I looked online and there were a few US providers offering s/h units for 400 US. I carefully checked its part number and dimensions and found the manufacturer in China was selling them un-badged brand new on Alibaba for 100 US shipped. I've had it running in the car for about three years. Hasn't had any problems and the guy who installed it said that all the compressors come from China ultimately anyway. (PS: They're a Denso unit when branded. They're totally identical.)

[@MattKester]

Good to know, I know this information will come in handy when we get started on the AC!

[@mattheww.4502]

Matt I'm glad you have joined the Land Rover Family. I purchased a Discovery 2 3 years ago with 75,000 miles on ir. I just recently replaced the head gaskets. I would recommend getting a 180 degree thermostat from Atlantic British of Lucky 8 off road. My disco is a daily driver that gets some heavy duty off roading on the weekends. I have had no issues and if you keep up with maintenance it's been pain free.

[@MattKester]

I hear you! We did throw a new 180 thermostat in when we replaced the coolant hoses during the head gasket job! I'll definitely be keeping an eye on it, probably gonna spend the money to install a scan gauge to monitor coolant temp more accurately, since the needles apparently only indicate it's hot AFTER it gone past critical!

[@brianunger1]

So happy I found you. Let's say this. If you were going to pick a Land Rover you picked the right one. You will want to save up as you will likely want to replace your driveshafts here soon. If yours is anything like mine there is a lot of play and as they see a lot of weather they tend to weaken as you hit those high miles. Also start thinking about getting that engine some more air. You will be happy with even a littl extra power as it looks like you use it as a daily driver as well. Here in CO I find the little bit extra a huge help since passes are always a bear.

[@MattKester]

What did you do to open it up to get more air?

[@davidmallia628]

Good cheap choice for very capable and functional off roader for mechanically minded people. A great platform for customizing and modification towards an awesome machine. For me it is the td5 diesel that does it.

[@MattKester]

I feel like my life’s not gonna be complete until I’ve experienced at least one diesel-powered Land Rover!