2003 Land Rover Freelander SE review from North America
"I feel totally misled in this car buying experience."
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The sunroof has been replaced.
Three of the four window regulators have been replaced and constantly need attention as they make excessive noise.
Brakes and rotors needed by 30,000 highway miles.
Heater core has been replaced.
Downhill descent control was not working from factory. Was replaced before I took possession.
Dash cup holder and armrest mechanisms have been replaced.
Most recently, a recurring antifreeze smell in the cabin when the air conditioning is running. Has been diagnosed as thermostat and manifold issues.
General comments?
I purchased this car based on the fact that it was the number one selling 4x4 in Europe. Now, I am being told that there are reliability problems because the Americans insisted on V6 engines, power windows, etc., as if these were new technology in 2006.
Thankfully, I had the presence of mind to purchase the extended warranty and I use it quite often at a $100 deductible per visit. This upsets me as often these visits are a result of continued issues for which I feel I have already "paid."
Recommended reviews
| Classic British - fun, sporty, and completely unreliable |
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| 2002 - Freelander SE 2.5 Litre V6 Fabulous to drive (on and off road) with questionable quality and cheap interior |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model year | 2003 |
| Year of manufacture | 2002 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 5 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 2 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 5 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 1 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 2 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 5000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 63000 miles |
| Previous car | Volkswagen Passat |
| Date of Entry | 23rd August, 2006 |