Land rover Defender problems
The Land Rover Defender (initially introduced as the Land Rover 110 / One Ten, and in 1984 joined by the Land Rover 90 / Ninety, plus the new, extra-length Land Rover 127 in 1985) is a series of British off-road cars and pickup trucks. They consistently have four-wheel drive, and were developed in the 1980s from the original Land Rover series which was launched at the Amsterdam Motor Show in April 1948. Following the 1989 introduction of the Land Rover Discovery, the term 'Land Rover' became the name of a broader marque, and thus no longer worked as the name of a specific model; thus in 1990 Land Rover renamed the 90 and 110 as Defender 90 and Defender 110 respectively. The 127 became the Defender 130.
The vehicle, a British equivalent of the Second World War derived (Willys) Jeep, gained a worldwide reputation for ruggedness and versatility. Using a steel ladder chassis and an aluminium alloy bodywork, the Land Rover originally used detuned versions of Rover engines. The original Defender is still being produced in developing countries despite the arrival of the Land Rover Defender (L663).
Though the Defender was not a new generation design, it incorporated significant changes, compared to the series Land Rovers, such as adopting coil springs front and rear, as opposed to all leaf springs on the previous; except for retaining rear leaf springs on high capacity (payload) models. Coil springs offered both better ride quality and improved axle articulation. Adding a lockable centre differential to the transfer case gave the Defender permanent (on-road) four-wheel-drive capability. Both changes were derived from the Range Rover, and the interiors were also modernised.
Externally, a full-length bonnet and full-width integrated grille and headlights, combined with (finally) a single-piece windscreen, plus widened wheel arches that covered new, wider-track axles were the most noticeable changes. Initially the engineering department conserved a part-time 4WD system, like on previous models, but it failed to sell, and this option was dropped in 1984. While the engine was carried over from the Series III, a new series of modern and more powerful engines was progressively introduced.
Even when ignoring the series Land Rovers and perhaps ongoing licence products, the 90/110 and Defender models' 33-year production run were ranked as the sixteenth longest single-generation car in history in 2020.
In 2020, Jaguar Land Rover introduced the first all new generation of Land Rover Defenders, switching from body on chassis to integrated bodywork and from live, rigid axles to all around independent suspension. While starting at a higher base price, the new model brought significant improvements to on road dynamics over the old model, air suspension is available on most trims. The range was originally limited to just two wheelbase lengths before a third, the Defender 130, was announced in 2022. The new Defender series is only available in closed, estate car bodies.
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Land rover Defender model years
Common Land rover Defender problems
The Land Rover Defender, known for its ruggedness and versatility, has been a popular choice for off-road enthusiasts and adventure seekers for decades.
One common problem with the Land Rover Defender is oil leaks, which can occur in various parts of the vehicle, such as the engine, gearbox, or differentials.
Another issue reported by some Defender owners is a leaky brake vacuum pump.
The Defender's clutch and gearbox are also known to give the odd bit of grief.
Defenders are designed for use off the beaten track, but some owners have reported that the car generates an odd knocking noise when being driven off-road.
Additionally, some Defender owners have reported problems with the accuracy of the fuel gauge.
In some cases, the engine of a Defender may continue to run even after the ignition has been turned off.
The Land Rover Defender's reliability has been the subject of debate, with some owners reporting significant issues and others praising the vehicle's durability and ease of maintenance.
Is the Land Rover Defender reliable?
For the safety and reliability rating, the Land Rover Defender scored an impressive 4.2 out of 5 stars.
How many miles will a Land Rover Defender last?
Land Rovers have an average life span of 13 years or 200,000 miles when well cared for. Land Rover is the least reliable brand of car. Repair and maintenance fees for high-end cars like Land Rovers are often high.
Are Land Rover Defenders expensive to repair?
Land Rovers are known for their specific technology and advanced features as high-end vehicles. Even though these are the things that make Land Rovers so desirable, however, it also means that maintenance and repairs can sometimes be expensive.
Is it expensive to maintain a Land Rover Defender?
Land Rover Maintenance Costs
Land Rover models average around $18,569 for maintenance and repair costs during their first 10 years of service. This is more than the industry average for luxury brands by $6,525. There is also a 41.71% chance that a Land Rover will require a major repair during that time.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Land rover Defender years
We have researched Land rover problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Land rover Defender cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Land rover Defender model years:
- Land rover Defender 2020
- Land rover Defender 2002
- Land rover Defender 1993
- Land rover Defender 1990
- Land rover Defender 1995
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Land rover Defender model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Land rover Defender years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Land rover Defender car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Land rover Defender , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Exterior lighting problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Engine problems
- Visibility/wiper problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Land rover Defender vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Defender model years
A total of 1 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Defender model years
There were a total of 2 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Defender model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 43 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Land rover Defender . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Land rover Defender vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Land rover Defender 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-16
- VIN: SALEX7EU6L2
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Daytime running light failure. Making vehicle difficult to see. Dealer lists and a knows issue and and flagged as a safety concern. But refuses to repair or rectify the problem. And wants to charge over $4000 for a safety item.
Land rover Defender 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-22
- VIN: SALE97EU0L2
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: My car does not fall under the VINs specified in recall N599 but is exhibiting the same unsafe conditions. At a rolling stop in traffic the car asks me to manually select a gear (while in Drive) and then shuts off the engine. The engine then will not restart and I am in unsafe conditions in intersections. I have brought the car to the dealership several times to resolve this and it continues to worsen. It has become a daily event and is now back at the delaership where they have told me it is not affected by this recall but clearly exhibits the same issue as described in that recall. This is a MAJOR SAFETY issue! The car shuts off without warning and wont restart. This is engine electrical system and transmission related. It drains the battery and leaves the car inoperable
Land rover Defender 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-07
- VIN: SALE9EEU3L2
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The rear backup camera is foggy and it is not possible to see clearly while backing up. It is foggy in any weather condition, during the daylight, and at night. There are halos around lights at night in addition to the general fogginess.
Land rover Defender 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-11
- VIN: SALE9EEUXL2
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Daytime running lights stopped working with no warning signs or notifications, reducing visibility.. Has been confirmed by independent service center. Circuitry in headlight is known to fail causing the daytime running light to stop without warning
Land rover Defender 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-28
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-30
- VIN: SALEJ7EX3L2
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: 2 windshields cracked within a 2 month period. Second windshield cracked about 45 days after installation with no evidence of any impact causing it. One morning I came out to my vehicle and there was a 6-8 inch crack starting at the bottom of the windshield. Have driven the same roads for 30 years and have never had issues with windshields and now 2 in a couple of months.
Land rover Defender 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-22
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-13
- VIN: SALE17EU4L2
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Windshield cracking for no reason Many occurrences in owners forum. Class action lawsuit filed. Manfature doing nothing. Windshields need to be redesigned .
Land rover Defender 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-22
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-20
- VIN: SALE1EEUXL2
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Large clunking sound with shuddering of the vehicle during a turn at low speeds. Inspection revealed cracked transfer case and differential damage which could lead to loss of control of vehicle. Had part repaired at Land Rover, again malfunctioned after 1000 miles with shuddering and "skipping" of rear tires during turns. Aware of two other malfunctions of transfer case with instability during turns.
Land rover Defender 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-19
- Date Complaint: 2023-05-19
- VIN: SALEK7EX8L2
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The "cone of light "projected forward by the headlights is too narrow. When turning right or left from one dark road onto another dark road, one cannot determine if it is safe to turn. The light cone is blocked by the escutcheon around the headlight, which are set inward too deep. In addition, the light intensity of the main beam is insufficient for proper night driving on dark roads, Note:this car was one of the first deliveries in the US. The dealer was not aware of lack of fog lights on vehicle and beam width problem.
Land rover Defender 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-10
- Date Complaint: 2022-12-12
- VIN: SALEJ7EX1L2
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: 255/60R20
Land rover Defender 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2022-11-01
- VIN: SALEP7EU3L2
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: My 2020 Defender has had three incidences of the windshield cracking due to the smallest pebble. The first two cracks, I had professionally sealed. The latest incident involved a pebble so small that I couldn't see it. In fact, the pebble was so tiny that a point of contact on the windshield can barely be observed. However, it caused the windshield to crack clear across the middle, impairing visibility and creating an unsafe driving experience. This is, I believe, the seventh Land Rover windshield that I have had the misfortune to have crack on me over the years. One Range Rover windshield cracked while sitting in the driveway with no projectiles involved. Another cracked in cooler overnight weather. These windshields are clearly defective and Land Rover is aware of the problem. This is why the dealership offers a very pricey windshield package as an option when you purchase the vehicle. I have called Land Rover corporate again in this instance because I'm fed up with paying $1800 to repair a defective bit of glass, only to have another crack appear and be forced to repair or replace that as well. Land Rover Corporate said that a pebble constituted "outside damage" and the windshield would not be covered under warranty. However, a driver does purchase a car under the presumption that the glass would be safe if struck by a tiny object or if taken through a car wash--as occurred with my previous Range Rover. Taken together, I do request that this consumer safety board review this issue as I know for a fact that I am not the only one concerned about the safety and reliability of the Land Rover windshields. Regards, [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Land rover Defender 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-21
- Date Complaint: 2022-09-15
- VIN: SALEP7EU5L2
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Driver's side A Pillar trim came loose at 75 mph on freeway and blew off the side of the car. Also pulled out mounting bolt for A Pillar Trim.
Land rover Defender 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-08
- Date Complaint: 2022-05-09
- VIN: SALE97EU7L2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: Engine light came on while at a stop light, engine faltered completely and car stalled. Would not restart. Shifted car into Park and tried multiple times to restart, finally got it restarted. Rolled forward per the flow of traffic and engine died again in the middle of the intersection putting me directly in harm’s way. Multiple lights including engine light and dash warnings appeared. Pictures attached. This is a major safety issue, the car died and I could not move it forward. I was almost hit and could not get the car restarted, not once but twice. I have owned the car for less than one week, and it’s been back in the shop now twice. The first time ( Wednesday) was also for electrical issues, including sensor issues.
Land rover Defender 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-03
- Date Complaint: 2022-03-03
- VIN: SALEXEEU4L2
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Hello! My 2020 P400 Defender is repeatedly not restarting itself at stoplights when the standard auto start/stop functionality engages. Upon removing my foot from the brake pedal to begin moving, what normally happens is thst the engine restarts itself and I drive off as normal. However, at least once or twice a day now, the car does not restart itself, the instrument cluster turns off, and I look down in the car has put itself into Park. I am stopped in traffic etc. This is a somewhat significant fault in my opinion - because it has now happened at busy intersections, highway on ramps, and other places where you do not want people aggressively honking or worse hitting you from behind if they are distracted. I thought perhaps I just needed a software update or something, but my car is confirmed to be on the newest Land Rover software systems for everything in the car. I have not taken it to the dealer for this problem yet (no appts avail) but will be taking it in later this month. The reason I decided to submit this to you is that I went on a Defender group on Facebook, and there are many posts on there with other people in the United States having the exact same problem. With both P300 and P400 engines in Defenders. So I believe this may be a fault with software or hardware (and not just an isolated issue with my Defender… which by the way is my favorite car I’ve ever owned!) — that needs to be rectified with some sense of urgency with Land Rover. Also, my novice testing of why and when this is happening has concluded one workaround that I believe prevents the issue: if I press the button on the dash to turn off the auto start/stop, this problem does not occur. However, the car defaults to auto start/stop being on at each ignition cycle - so that would need to be something that users would need to remember to do each time they started the car.
Land rover Defender 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-25
- Date Complaint: 2022-02-26
- VIN: SALEJ7EX6L2
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: I was driving at a speed of 66 miles when the engine died, the cluster showed a red triangle and showed an alarm setting message. Steering wheel vibrate and I could not moved. This event last around 3 seconds and the alarm disappeared and the engine came back.
Land rover Defender 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-30
- Date Complaint: 2022-01-09
- VIN: Salepeeu1l2
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: This happenedtwice after the most recent update(os 3.0). When i turned on my vehicle and engaged drive, power steering was disabled and/or locked. Im not sure which it was, but steering the vehicle was not possible, for several seconds, until it resolved itself.
Latest 5 recalls Land rover Defender
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 23 recalls for different components of the Land rover Defender.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Land rover Defender 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-09-12
- Manufacturer: Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
- Summary: Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC (Land Rover) is recalling certain 2024 Defender, Discovery Sport, Range Rover, Range Rover Evoque, Range Rover Velar, and Range Rover Sport vehicles. The Near Field Sensing Module (NFSM) may overheat and cause the 3D surround camera images, including the rearview camera image, not to display.
- Consequence: A rearview camera image that does not display can decrease the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of injury or crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the NFSM, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 25, 2024. Owners may contact Land Rover customer service at 1-800-637-6837. Land Rover's number for this recall is N927.
- Model: Land rover Defender 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-06-17
- Manufacturer: Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION:FILTER/SCREEN
- Summary: Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC (Land Rover) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Defender, 2024 Discovery, Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, and Range Rover Velar vehicles. The oil filter housing can crack and leak oil into the engine compartment.
- Consequence: An oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the filter housing, oil filter, and o-rings, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 27, 2024. Owners may contact Land Rover customer service at 1-800-637-6837. Land Rover's number for this recall is N908.
- Model: Land rover Defender 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-06-17
- Manufacturer: Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION:FILTER/SCREEN
- Summary: Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC (Land Rover) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Defender, 2024 Discovery, Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, and Range Rover Velar vehicles. The oil filter housing can crack and leak oil into the engine compartment.
- Consequence: An oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the filter housing, oil filter, and o-rings, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 27, 2024. Owners may contact Land Rover customer service at 1-800-637-6837. Land Rover's number for this recall is N908.
- Model: Land rover Defender 2023
- Report Received Date: 2023-11-22
- Manufacturer: Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:CRITICAL FASTENERS
- Summary: Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC (Land Rover) is recalling certain 2023 Land Rover Defender 130 vehicles modified for the TRek Off-Road Competition. The brake calipers may not be reinstalled properly, allowing the brake calipers to detach.
- Consequence: Detached brake calipers can reduce braking ability and cause structural wheel damage, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will reinstall the brake calipers, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed January 18, 2024. Owners may contact Land Rover customer service at 1-800-637-6837. Land Rover's number for this recall is N848.
- Model: Land rover Defender 2023
- Report Received Date: 2023-03-02
- Manufacturer: Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC
- Components: CHILD SEAT:VEHICLE TETHER ANCHOR
- Summary: Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC (Land Rover) is recalling certain 2023 Land Rover Defender 130 vehicles equipped with third-row seats. The third-row seatback latch may not latch properly, reducing the strength of a child seat installed to the top tether.
- Consequence: A child seat with reduced strength may not properly restrain the occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the third-row seat frame and components, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 24, 2023. Owners may contact Land Rover customer service at 1-800-637-6837. Land Rover's number for this recall is N768.
Latest negative Land rover Defender car reviews
Latest positive Land rover Defender car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2022
I love jeeps, but I was looking for something a bit more luxurious, and this car is amazing! I would recommend it in a heartbeat. It's the best car I've ever been in!
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Vehicle year: 2022
Great truck! The 4-cylinder engine is perfect for everyday use, just keep in mind that it may struggle with towing or mountainous terrain. Also, it's important to avoid combining the expedition rack with a fabric sunroof as it can create a lot of noise. Overall, it's a fantastic truck!
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Vehicle year: 2021
First 2021 90 in SF ... 5 days since I bought it. I'm absolutely delighted! It was worth my almost 2-year wait for the 90.
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Vehicle year: 2021
undefinedThe ride is surprisingly smooth and quiet, even with the Wrangler off-road tires. I was initially concerned about the sound insulation due to the exposed metal on the doors, which is not present in other rovers, but it is as quiet inside as any other vehicle. Overall, the Defender feels very solid and capable of running over or through anything. The interior materials are durable and pleasant to the touch, with less plastic and more rubber. Although there is not a lot of leather, the seats are softer and more comfortable. I really appreciate not having carpet. All of the controls are intuitive and easy to use. The navigation system is particularly impressive, and I find it easy to follow the directions. Of course, the off-road capability is awesome, with the ability to sense the water wade depth ahead of you. The Defender is a really cool-looking truck that gets lots of attention everywhere we take it. I have only seen one other one on the road so far, so I guess not many made it to the states for the 2020 model year. If you are looking for a unique and fun-to-drive SUV with unlimited capability, the Defender is the perfect choice. Now, I am trying to convince my wife to trade her RR Sport for an x edition Defender next year...
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Vehicle year: 2023
Gas mileage isn't any worse than my F-pace, but the ride is surprisingly smooth!
Are you having problems with your Land rover Defender?
Ezekiel Nicolas 2024-10-16
Vehicle year: 2020
The car has been driven for 20m and experienced some issues. Despite its good appearance, it has proven to be a dud with numerous problems, particularly related to the software. Connectivity issues, such as difficulty connecting to a phone, are just some of the endless issues. Additionally, the engine jumps hard when parking, despite being automatic.
Lincoln Rolfson 2024-10-08
Vehicle year: 2023
If you want to turn heads, you need to be able to drive the car. Unfortunately, this vehicle has proven to be inconsistent and unreliable, which is disappointing considering the manufacturer's reputation. I regret my decision to purchase this car and would advise against making the same mistake. Be wary of fake reviews and do your research before making a purchase.
Furman Lubowitz 2024-09-17
Vehicle year: 2020
This vehicle has some areas that require improvement, such as the engineering and infotainment system. Wind noise is also an issue. Additionally, there are errors present in the infotainment system and low coolant levels on the main console. Some door rattling has also been reported. The build quality could be improved and the ride is stiff. However, it is important to note that these issues can be addressed and should not necessarily deter potential buyers from considering this vehicle.
Caesar Keeling 2024-09-11
Vehicle year: 2021
This vehicle has some areas that require improvement, such as the engineering and infotainment system. Wind noise is also an issue. Additionally, there are errors present in the infotainment system and low coolant levels on the main console. Some door rattling has also been reported. The build quality could be improved and the ride is stiff. However, it is important to note that these issues can be addressed and should not necessarily deter potential buyers from considering this vehicle.
Niko Hansen 2024-08-19
Vehicle year: 2020
We are thrilled with our brand new 2020 Defender! However, we want to inform potential buyers that there may be some delays in obtaining parts in the USA. Unfortunately, we have experienced this firsthand with a cracked tail light cover that we have been waiting for over 30 days to receive. We understand that Land Rover is prioritizing parts for new Defenders, which has caused some frustration for existing customers. Despite this, we remain loyal to the brand and hope that they will find a solution to this issue soon. We believe that with their reputation for quality and innovation, Land Rover will continue to be a great choice for anyone in the market for a new vehicle.