Range Rover Common Problems

Range Rovers are the original luxury SUV.  Known for their luxurious and spacious interiors, impressive off-road capabilities, and smooth ride.  However, Range Rovers have gained a reputation for reliability issues that potential and current owners should be aware of.  If you already own one, or are in the market, it is a good idea to be aware of the common issues that affect Range Rovers across various model years.

Air Suspension Issues

Perhaps the most notorious problem with Range Rovers is their air suspension system. This sophisticated setup, while providing exceptional ride quality and adjustable height capabilities, is prone to failure. The air bags can develop leaks, compressors can burn out, and sensors may malfunction.

Model Year Specifics:

• 2003-2009 (L322): Extremely common air suspension failures, particularly around 60,000-80,000 miles
• 2010-2012: Improved reliability but still prone to compressor failure
  • 2013-2017 (L405): Better overall but expensive electronic air suspension failures still occur
• 2018-2022: Despite improvements, air suspension problems persist, though less frequently

While all suspensions wear out over time the frustration with air suspension failures are the costs involved compared to traditional shock and strut configurations.  A very common situation we see is where an air strut has developed a leak and the compressor gets overworked and burns up.  Due to the cost of repairs it is important to get any problems addressed as soon as possible to avoid secondary part failures.

Electrical Faults and Failures

Range Rovers have complex electrical and computer systems to manage all of the various systems within the vehicle, but this complexity comes at a price. Common electronic issues include:

• Malfunctioning infotainment systems that freeze or crash
• Failed parking sensors and cameras
• Erratic climate control behavior
• Electrical system glitches affecting everything from windows to door locks
• Dashboard warning lights appearing without cause

Model Year Specifics:

• 2002-2009: Basic electrical issues, mainly affecting windows and central locking.  Water intrusion into the battery tray area from faulty seals causing corrosion and electrical issues.
• 2010-2012: Widespread infotainment issues, particularly with the early touchscreen systems
• 2013-2015: InControl system failures common, especially in early production models
• 2016-2019: Continued touchscreen and connectivity issues, though less severe
• 2020-2023: Improved reliability but still experiencing occasional software glitches

Oil Leaks

While oil leaks are not unique to Range Rovers it is a good idea to be familiar with the common leaks affecting the various generations.

Model Year Specifics:

• 2003-2005: 4.4L BMW V8 engines prone to valve cover gasket leaks
• 2006-2009: 4.2L Supercharged engines commonly experience timing cover leaks
• 2010-2012: 5.0L naturally aspirated and supercharged engines both show oil leak issues around 60,000 miles
• 2013-2016: Continued issues with timing cover leaks on 5.0L engines
• 2017-2022: Improved sealing but still susceptible to oil leaks, particularly in high-mileage vehicles

Timing Chain Issues

One of the most serious and expensive problems that affect Range Rovers is timing chain failure. This issue is particularly concerning because, if left unaddressed, it can lead to catastrophic engine failure.

Model Year Specifics:

• 2005-2009 TDV6 Diesel: Early timing chain wear leading to stretching and potential failure
• 2010-2013 5.0L V8: Notorious for timing chain stretch and tensioner failures, often occurring between 60,000-80,000 miles
• 2013-2016 3.0 SDV6: Timing chain failures common, particularly in vehicles with irregular oil change intervals
• 2014-2016 Sport models: Similar issues with timing chain stretch and tensioner wear

Common Warning Signs:

• Rattling noise from the front of the engine, particularly on cold starts
• Check engine light with timing-related fault codes
• Rough idle or poor engine performance
• Metal particles in oil during changes
• “Death rattle” sound indicating imminent failure

While you can’t completely eliminate the timing chain problems in your Range Rover, you can prolong its life by performing frequent oil changes with quality oil.  We recommend more frequent oil changes because poor lubrication is one of the primary reasons for the chains to stretch.  If you hear any noises, especially during cold starts, then getting your Rover checked out should be done as soon as possible.

Transmission Problems

Transmission issues are another significant concern for Range Rover owners. The ZF automatic transmissions used in many models can exhibit rough shifting, delayed engagement, or complete failure.

Model Year Specifics:

• 2002-2005: Early ZF transmissions prone to electronic control unit failures
• 2006-2009: Common shift solenoid failures
• 2010-2013: Transmission software issues causing erratic shifting
• 2014-2017: Improved reliability but still experiencing occasional valve body failures
• 2018-2022: Better overall transmission reliability, though high-mileage units can still develop issues

Cooling System Failures

Range Rover cooling systems have a few failure points across the generations.  Most of which can be traced to molded plastic components within the cooling system.  There are aftermarket aluminum upgrade kits that are available and are worth investigating to avoid repairing coolant leaks multiple times.

Model Year Specifics:

• 2002-2009: Plastic coolant crossover pipe failures extremely common
• 2010-2012: Water pump failures typical around 60,000 miles.  Continued leaks from coolant pipes
• 2013-2016: Improved cooling system design but still prone to thermostat housing leaks and coolant pipes
• 2017-2022: Better overall cooling system reliability but expensive repairs when problems occur

Conclusion

While Range Rovers offer an unmatched combination of luxury, prestige, and off-road capability, they require dedicated maintenance and a realistic understanding of potential issues and the costs involved. The newest models (2018-2023) show improved reliability across all systems, but still require diligent maintenance. Older models, particularly those from 2002-2012, require the most careful consideration and often the highest maintenance and repair budgets. Prospective buyers should carefully weigh these common problems against the vehicle’s benefits and ensure they’re prepared for the financial commitment of ownership.

Regardless of what year of Range Rover you own, the specially trained technicians at Alex’s Autohaus in the Salt Lake Valley have extensive experience working on all of the Range Rover platforms and can provide yours with unmatched diagnostics and repair.  Give us a call or schedule online with our friendly team today.