1997 Land rover Defender 90 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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Common 1997 Land rover Defender 90 problems
The Land Rover Defender 90, produced in 1997, is known for several common problems based on complaints from owners. This can significantly impact the overall driving experience and satisfaction for many users.
Another issue is the fuel efficiency of the Land Rover Defender 90. The vehicle is known to consume fuel at a high rate, which can be a significant concern for owners given the rising fuel costs. This problem can lead to increased expenses for drivers, making it a significant concern for those considering purchasing this vehicle.
The Land Rover Defender 90 is also known for requiring frequent adjustments, repairs, and part replacements, particularly for those living in rural areas where repairing machinery is second nature. This can be a significant inconvenience for many users, as it defeats the purpose of buying a new vehicle.
In addition to these issues, the Land Rover Defender 110, which shares many components with the 90, has its own set of common problems. Unreliability is a significant concern for many owners, with many reporting inconsistent performance from start to finish. This can be particularly troubling for those using the vehicle every day, as it can impact their ability to slow down and speed up smoothly.
Corrosion of the bodywork, particularly on the underside of the car, is another common issue with the Land Rover Defender 110. This can be a significant concern for many users, as it can lead to more extensive and expensive repairs over time.
Fuel mixups are also a common issue with the Land Rover Defender, with many owners mistakenly putting the wrong fuel into the system. This can be catastrophic for the vehicle if not corrected urgently, leading to engine damage and potentially requiring a new engine.
While the Land Rover Defender is well-loved by many owners, its reliability is a significant concern, with many reporting issues related to the parking brake, detached front wheel, seatbelt mounting bracket, and loss of brake fluid. These issues can be particularly troubling for those using the vehicle every day, as they can impact their ability to slow down and speed up smoothly, as well as their safety on the road.
In summary, the Land Rover Defender 90 and 110 are known for several common problems, including lack of comfort, fuel efficiency, frequent repairs, unreliability, corrosion, and fuel mixups. These issues can significantly impact the overall driving experience and satisfaction for many users, making it essential for potential buyers to be aware of these concerns before making a purchase.
Are old Defender 90 reliable?
Much as they are well loved by owners, old Defenders aren't always reliable, so the first thing to look for is a complete service history.
What is the common problem of Land Rover Defender?
Land Rover Defenders may encounter fuel system issues such as clogged fuel filters, fuel pump failures, or injector problems. These issues can lead to poor engine performance, stalling, or even complete engine failure if not resolved promptly.
Why are Defender 90 so expensive?
Over the last 10 years
This is due to a combination of factors, including increasing demand, limited supply, and the reputation of Defenders as durable, capable, and iconic vehicles. Additionally, the design of the Defenders is timeless and has become an icon.
Which is better Defender 90 or 110?
However, unlike the Defender 90, the Defender 110 also gives you the option to equip a third-row bench seat! This means that the Defender 110 is a better choice for drivers who want to plan more outings for their friends and family: Defender 90 Seating Capacity: 5 (standard) or 6 (with optional first-row jump seat)
1997 Land rover Defender 90 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Land rover Defender 90 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Structure problems
- Electrical system problems
- Equipment problems
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Land rover Defender 90 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1997 Land rover Defender 90 complaints
The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Land rover Defender 90.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-01
- VIN: SALDV3249VA
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE VEHICLE FRAME IS PREMATURELY RUSTING TO THE POINT IT MAY FAIL. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-03-30
- VIN: SALDV3249VA
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: THE ODOMETER IN MY 1997 LAND ROVER DEFENDER 90 BLINKS AT 135000 KM AND IT STOP SHOWING THE NUMBERS. NOW I CANT READ HOW MANY KILOMETERS I DRIVE THEREFORE I M WORRY ABOUT THE PERFORMANCE OF THE DRIVE TRAIN. I M AFRAID BY NOT KNOWING HOW MANY KM I M DRIVING MAY LEAD TO ENGINE DAMAGE AS I MAY NOT CHANGE ENGINE OIL AT THE REQUIRED INTERVAL RESULTING IN COSTLY REPAIR. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-07-01
- VIN: FALDX3243BA
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES MOISTURE IS ENTERING IN THE TAIL LIGHTS ASSEMBLY, CAUSING THE TAIL LIGHTS TO BECOME INOPERATIVE. CONSUMER HAS CONTACTED THE DEALER, DEALER HAS REPLACED PARTS. CONSUMER STILL EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Land rover Defender 90 problems:
Are 1997 defenders Piece of Garbage like all rovers? | IH8MUD Forum
They had a problem stripping the gearbox output sharft , a phone call to Landrover and a new gearbox was supplied with the mods so it didnt ...
1997 Land Rover Defender 90 NAS v8 Automatic Experience ...
Mar 6, 2014 ... Anyone here own the same spec as an every day vehicle and willing to share their experience or problems with the car, if any? What are the ...
1997 Land Rover Defender 90 Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
Get 1997 Land Rover Defender 90 repair and maintenance costs, common problems, recalls, and more. Find certified Land Rover mechanics near you.
Common Issues | Defender Source Forum
Oct 6, 2017 ... NPT90. 3607 posts · Joined 2011. Add to quote ... 1985 LAND ROVER DEFENDER 110 COUNTY V8. ... The Rover V8 is a Buick engine from the early 60s.
Are land rovers really “unreliable” : r/LandRover
Aug 16, 2022 ... Id say they are fairly reliable, or as reliable as their owner is and maintenance and catching common problems. Upvote 4. Downvote Reply reply
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