2009 Land rover Lr3 problems
The Land Rover Discovery is a series of seven-seater family SUVs, produced under the Land Rover marque, from the British manufacturer Land Rover, and later Jaguar Land Rover. The series is currently in its fifth iteration (or generation, according to the manufacturer), the first of which was introduced in 1989, making the Discovery the first new model series since the launch of the 1970 Range Rover – on which it was based – and only the third new product line since the conception of the Land Rover (vehicle and brand) by Rover in 1948. The model is sometimes called influential, as one of the first to market a true off-road capable family car.
Although the Range Rover had originally been designed as an everyday four wheel drive car that could be used as both a utility vehicle and a family car, it had progressively moved upmarket through its life to evolve into a luxury vehicle sold at a much higher price point. The Discovery was intended to fulfill the role the Range Rover originally was intended for; a segment which was now dominated by Japanese rivals such as the Nissan Patrol, Mitsubishi Pajero and Toyota Land Cruiser. Although positioned below the Range Rover in the company's line-up, the vehicle was both longer and higher, offered more room in the back, and optionally also more seats. Space utilization became more sophisticated in later iterations, but the series keeps offering seats for seven occupants. Despite originally being sold as an affordable alternative to the Range Rover, the Discovery has also progressively moved upmarket through its successive generations to become a bonafide luxury SUV.
The second Discovery (1998) was called the Series II, and though featuring an extended rear body, was otherwise an updated facelift, which carried on the 100 in (2,540 mm) wheelbase frame and rigid, live front and rear axles of the original Range Rover into 2004.
The third iteration – succeeding the series I and II in 2004 - was either titled the Discovery 3 or simply LR3 (in North America and the Middle East). This was the first all-original design for the Discovery. Although it followed the 2002 third generation Range Rover, also switching to fully independent suspension, it still received a separate, but integrated body and frame (IBF) structure. The fourth iteration, as of 2009 – like the series II, was again mainly an update of the new generation – marketed as the Discovery 4, or Land Rover LR4 for North American and Middle Eastern markets.
The fifth iteration of the Discovery, introduced in 2017, no longer sports a numeric suffix. Unlike the previous two generations, it now benefits from a unitized body structure, making it lighter than its predecessor.
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Common 2009 Land rover Lr3 problems
The Land Rover LR3, produced from 2005 to 2009, is known for its off-road capabilities and sporty design. However, it has some common problems that owners have reported.
One of the most critical issues is the defective airbag module, which can cause the airbag light to come on. This problem is often caused by a fractured airbag wire, which affects the airbag module's operation. In severe cases, it can prevent the airbags from deploying in an emergency, posing a significant safety risk.
Another common problem is the ignition switch and transmission lever issue, which can allow the key to be removed from the ignition even if the transmission lever is not in the park mode. This can cause the vehicle to roll away, potentially causing damage to the car and other vehicles. Land Rover issued a recall in 2006 to address this issue for the affected 2005 and 2006 models.
The 2005-2006 Land Rover LR3's transmission problems are also a significant concern. These issues can cause erratic shifting, excessive vehicle hesitation, and complete transmission failure. Some owners have reported that these transmission-related problems may be linked to various electrical control unit (ECU) complications. If the transmission is faulty, it may require a total rebuild or replacement, which can cost up to $6,800.
The Land Rover LR3's airbag wiring is another dangerous problem. Damage to the airbag wiring from the steering wheel and column mechanism can cause the airbag to fail to deploy in the event of a collision. This issue can trigger the SUV's SRS warning light, indicating that the air bag requires immediate repair. A recall was issued to address this issue, which also included other Land Rover models.
Suspension issues are also common in the Land Rover LR3. The vehicle height sensor may deactivate the air suspension, and problems with the tire pressure control module can occur. Additionally, the exterior door handles and vehicle emblems tend to fade over time.
The 2005 model year is considered the worst for the Land Rover LR3 due to reported issues such as electrical problems, paint peeling, and drivetrain issues. There were also recalls for steering column issues in the 2005 and some 2006 models.
In summary, the Land Rover LR3 has several common problems that owners have reported, including defective airbag modules, ignition switch and transmission lever issues, transmission problems, airbag wiring damage, suspension issues, and exterior door handle and emblem fading. The 2005 model year is considered the worst for this vehicle due to a higher number of reported issues.
What years to avoid LR3?
The Land Rover LR3's instrument cluster problems are quite notorious. They can happen with the 2005-2009 LR3 model years. These issues may cause your vehicle's indicator lights, such as the seat belt light or oil light, to go off.
When did they stop making LR3?
Land Rover Discovery 3/LR3
Known as both the Land Rover Discovery and the Land Rover LR3, this model was discontinued in 2009. First produced in 2004, this model was manufactured for five years.
What Land Rover has the least problems?
Which Land Rover model requires the least maintenance? While the results of What Car's 2021 Reliability Survey found that the most reliable luxury SUV was the Range Rover Velar (2017-present), this doesn't mean that it requires less maintenance than any other Range Rover model.
How many miles does a 2009 Land Rover last?
How Long Do Land Rovers Last? Land Rovers have an average life span of 13 years or 200,000 miles when well cared for.
2009 Land rover Lr3 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Land rover Lr3 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Structure problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2009 Land rover Lr3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2009 Land rover Lr3 complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2009 Land rover Lr3.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-20
- VIN: SALAG25499A
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 LAND ROVER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT DURING INCLEMENT WEATHER, WATER WOULD ENTER THE CABIN OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CARPET WAS SOAKED. THE CONTACT WAS UNAWARE OF THE WHERE THE WATER WAS ENTERING THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT WAS ALSO CONCERNED THAT ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS IN THE VEHICLE COULD BE AFFECTED BY WATER INTRUSION INTO UNSEALED ELECTRICAL PORTS OR PLUGS. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 79,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-30
- VIN: SALAG25419A
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 2009 LAND ROVER LR3. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO VEHICLE TRANSMISSION ISSUES. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT COME OUT OF FIRST GEAR. ACCORDING TO THE REPAIR INVOICE, THE TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE TECHNICIAN FOUND BROKEN BOLTS IN THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD. *JB
Negative 2009 Land rover Lr3 car reviews
Positive 2009 Land rover Lr3 car reviews
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I recently purchased a 2008 LR3 with 150,000 miles after looking at several LR3 and LR4 models. I spent about a year researching on car fax and car gurus, but I knew I had to see the car in person before making a decision. During a road trip to an area full of LR3s, I found the one I wanted in a run-down lot. Despite its leaking shocks and other issues, I knew I had to have it. After leaving a few messages, the seller and I arranged a meeting later that evening. He was a nice guy and the LR3 looked pretty good compared to the others I had seen. Although it had a few issues, the seller promised to take care of them. I flew back four weeks later to pick up my LR3, and although it needed a new brake caliper, I was still optimistic about my purchase. After a four-hour drive home, I cleaned it up and took my dad for a ride. Unfortunately, the passenger door wouldn't open and my elderly father was trapped inside. Despite this hiccup, I'm still thrilled with my LR3 purchase!I was impressed by how skillfully a large person could navigate around so many fragile plastic barbs without breaking anything. Even to this day, he refuses to ride in my LR3. Two weeks later, I took it to a service shop and declined the $850 estimate just to open the door. Instead, I stripped the interior door card and passenger seat for full access, and the door miraculously unlocked on its own. The boutique car service establishment took the time to inform me of everything that could possibly be wrong with my beautiful LR3 at the hourly rate of $189/hour, which could have made my $7000 car worth close to $12000. I was amazed by the amount of service information available on YouTube for LR3's, which I assume is due to the demand of so many DIY'ers. I previously kept a BMW e39 running, and now I get to cut my teeth on a Land Rover. Although it's currently just sitting in my carport, I can still start it up and watch the fireworks of strange lights and gyrating tachometer needles doing what they may. It's a Land Rover, and I still love it.
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This is my 2nd LR3 and the best vehicle I've had. I've had absolutely zero defects on this vehicle. I leased it, but am about to buy off the lease, it's that good. One thing I cannot understand is how the reviews always comment on quality. The quality of these vehicles is awesome.
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I have a 2008 LR3 HSE and the only issues I've had are with a seatbelt in the back seat and the refrigerator, which have both been replaced and are now working fine. Living in an area where it snows 5-6 months out of the year, the LR3 is a beast in the snow. I love to show up my two friends with Hummers, as they're not even in the same class. This SUV is not just for driving to the mall or grocery store. I absolutely love driving this car and even took a trip to Florida with my two kids, which was great. I expected the gas mileage to be around 21mpg on the highway. The LR3 is built like a tank and makes me walk funny!
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I hope you're doing well! Last week, while driving my brand new Land Rover Discovery, I unfortunately got hit by another car and was pushed off the road, hitting a group of large trees at about 40 MPH. Despite not having time to hit the brakes, the car did everything right - all airbags deployed, the engine shut off, etc. Thankfully, I walked away from the accident, although the car was totalled. While the other features of the car are great, safety is definitely the number one priority. On a brighter note, I'm excited to be picking up my new Discovery soon!
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The experience has been fantastic! These are the best-built vehicles in the world. I live in Maryland and since I've had my vehicle, I pray for snow.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2009 Land rover Lr3 problems:
LR3 common problems/issues? | Land Rover and Range Rover Forum
Aug 21, 2011 ... Both front lower control arm bushings are very common for the poping noise. Air suspension compressors go out on these a lot. Sunroof drains ...
Thinking about Buying an LR3 - Land Rover Forums - Land Rover ...
Oct 1, 2015 ... What are the common problems on LR3s? Any ... I went from a 03 disco to a 06 LR3 HSE and it is night and day with reliability and capabilities.
Going to look at this 2008 LR3, 110k miles. Is there a way to see ...
Sep 24, 2021 ... ... land-rover/lr3/2008/vin/SALAG25468A465761/?radius=6000. First time LR buyer. I've been browsing this sub for a while and know all the common LR3 ...
Land Rover LR3 Reliability and Common Problems - In The Garage ...
5 days ago ... One of the most notable issues with the 2005-2009 Land Rover LR3 is its faulty tire pressure control module, which can indicate a misleading ...
Land Rover LR3 Problems and Complaints - 10 Issues
Top Land Rover LR3 Problems · Defective Vehicle Height Sensor May Deactivate Air Suspension · Problems with tire pressure control module · Exterior Door Handles/ ...
Other years of Land rover Lr3
Are you having problems with your 2009 Land rover Lr3?
Oscar Mertz 2025-04-11
The gas mileage is truly horrible and the front seating is uncomfortable. However, the interior is great and the car looks good. It is important to note that the car experiences massive depreciation. Overall, I would not recommend it.
Hollis Wiza 2024-09-17
There are some things I really appreciate about this car, but unfortunately, there have been some issues that have caused me some frustration. I have had to take it to the dealership multiple times to address some problems with the lights, seat heaters, and other features (I think it's been 8 times so far). Additionally, the front window molding came off while driving on the highway just 3 months after purchase. Recently, the car has broken down twice in the last two months, both times while we were on vacation, and it only has 25,000 miles on it. Currently, it is at the shop 400 miles away from my home, so it's hard to say what the issue is. Overall, I think there are some areas where the car could be improved, but I'm hopeful that the issues can be resolved soon.
Jaquan Legros 2024-06-27
I previously owned a 04 Lincoln Navigator, but it was time for something a little smaller. Before the Lincoln, I had a 1999 Discovery II for 4 years and I must say, the Landrover is just built better. The quality of materials is superior and despite some complaints about quality, I have never had any problems with my Disco and nothing so far with the LR3. Interestingly, my Acura RL was in the shop more than either of these two trucks. I must say, this truck is great with outstanding looks and the dealers are fantastic. They are the best I've ever had, even better than my Mercedes, Acura, Lincoln, and BMW.
Brenden Klein 2024-06-24
I absolutely loved my Land Rover! After driving it for 140,000 miles, it started to leak and the suspension needed repairs. Although it was a gas guzzler, I always felt safe in it. I was rear-ended once, but the car was not affected, just some broken red lights. Another time, I was hit by a bus, but the Land Rover kept me safe. I have yet to find another vehicle with the same drive and height that I love. However, I was tired of constantly paying for repairs and having a separate account for them. Although I don't like the newer models, I appreciate the gas savings. The parts can be expensive and repair shops always seem to want to make money off of you. I even had to sue them in court multiple times. The Land Rover service department was the best and I miss it dearly. There is truly no other vehicle like it. It had plenty of room in both the front and back seats and I was able to haul furniture and people with ease. I never felt cramped in the vehicle, it was very spacious and easy to park. The design was great too!
Louvenia Gleichner 2024-06-19
The GMC Denali was replaced with the LR3, but unfortunately, it has been plagued with numerous issues since the first week of ownership. Despite being located 3 hours away from the dealership, we have had to deal with one problem after another. The Land Rover, while being more affordable, is built with the same quality as a luxury car. At a price point of 50+K, it is reasonable to expect standard features such as a navigation system or at least a directional indicator. The LR3 has not met our expectations and we have decided against upgrading to the Range Rover Sport. In my opinion, I cannot recommend this vehicle. As a mother of three who drives conservatively, it is concerning that we have had to replace the brakes and tires before even reaching 20K miles. This is unacceptable for a vehicle of this caliber.