Any "bad" VIN range for the 2004 DII's?

[DeadHead86]

Im currently looking at a 2004' DII and Ive got a quick question. Like the 2003 DIIs, do any of the 2004 fall into a bad VIN range? If so, does anyone on here know the VIN range effected? I dont have the time or cash to pour into a lemon. Thanks all.

 

[KyleT]

all of them. you are pretty much crapshooting the liner issue with a 04. chances are you will be fine, but they are more susceptible than pre 03.

 

[DeadHead86]

Thats what Ive heard. Originally I was looking for an 04', but then started diggin' around and decided that the "cool" headlights werent worth the problems the engines started having in 2003. BUT, I have run across an 04 that is for an ok price. Just figures that the entire time I was looking for an 04 I couldnt find one and now that Im more interested in a 99' to 00' one falls in my lap.

 

[rovercanus]

...one falls in my lap.

Bet that hurt.

 

[brianhoberg]

Generally the bad ones began with SAL....

 

[discopedro]

Generally the bad ones began with SAL....

:rofl:

 

[specops1526]

I just had the engine replaced in one of my 04s under warranty because of a slipped liner. Had to wait about 3-4 months for the engine to come in so I was in a loaner that entire time. I've got the truck back and it has a bit of a rough idle. Not sure what it is since the truck has a new engine, new head gaskets, new plugs and new wires...

 

[gmookher]

IMHO I like the 4.6, and for me any non HSE 2004 is what I went shopping for. no regrets, 80K runing very strong, knock on wood. If i have to deal with a headjob, I'll likely redo both top and bottom end and see if I am good for another 80k, which would be just fine by me, its not like I think you're gonna get some magical problem free 160K out of a 2002 or prior motor, so I do not follow the logic in buying older if what you want is a 2004. My old neighbor had a 2002, it was markedly different in how it braked, accelerated and I'd never trade backwards..fwiw, I dont ever 'plan' to sell the 2004. if I ever rolled it, it would go to truggie heaven and stay with me

PS I felt the rare 2004 Maya Gold was a perfect colour with the tan interior.. only available in 2004. I despise the sandy gold of prior years, its cheapy looking.(no offense to those who own it)

 

[DeadHead86]

Generally the bad ones began with SAL....

Will you guys get a load of this guy. :applause:

 

[DeadHead86]

I just had the engine replaced in one of my 04s under warranty because of a slipped liner. Had to wait about 3-4 months for the engine to come in so I was in a loaner that entire time. I've got the truck back and it has a bit of a rough idle. Not sure what it is since the truck has a new engine, new head gaskets, new plugs and new wires...

Sounds like LRNA customer service for ya.

 

[seventyfive]

:beer:

Generally the bad ones began with SAL....

 

[DeadHead86]

So would I be better off sticking with a pre 03' Disco if only considering the year? I almost bought an 03' a couple years back but a few of you here and some from LRO basically talked me out of it, and Im glad for that. So, all opinions and advice are welcome.

 

[Paul K]

I say go '04.

But whatever year you get, be aware that it might cost you $$$ down the road.

Maybe not very far down the road...

 

[adriatic04]

I would say with any rover you need one that was maintained its entire life. even then they are still a crapshoot.

 

[wiscodisco]

I would say with any rover you need one that was maintained its entire life.

x2...I've had my 04 since 36,000 miles, with all service records upon purchase, and have been ultra-anal about maintenance...payoff has been an ultra-reliable vehicle closing in on 100,000 miles that rides as good as the day I bought it...

...no oil leaks, no rust, nada, for the past 5,000-10,000 miles...okay, I've got a slow throttle body heater leak, but who doesn't

 

[DeadHead86]

I say go '04.

But whatever year you get, be aware that it might cost you $$$ down the road.

Maybe not very far down the road...

Im fully aware of the potential costs of any Disco, regardless of year. Im just trying to stack it up against all the other DIIs to make sure I dont make a mistake like I almost once did with an 03 purchase. Thanks for the advice.

 

[DeadHead86]

Id like to say thanks to everyone that added thier 2 cents. I really do appreciate it. Looks like Ill be going with the '04 if everything goes well.

Now, has anyone here done a "reverse facelift" if you will on a '03 or '04? Ive actually become quite fond of the original look. Lol.

 

[ptschram]

I have replaced three engines in '04s with fewer than 80K miles and have the fourth in the shop but the owner can't afford it and I expect it to be abandoned here soon.

AFIRover's wife's truck had three replacement engines in 48K miles under warranty. When it needed the fourth replacement engine, they finally pulled the plug and got a Volvo.

I'm glad my DIIs are both '01s

 

[adriatic04]

and all these comments on 04's after just one or two years ago everyone on this board would recommend anyone asking about a disco to look for an 04. 4.6, CDL, etc. :banghead:

I still say they can be very good trucks, as with any rover, they like the love and attention.

 

[rmuller]

All D2 engines suck. It's hit or miss... I've seen '03s make it well into the 6 digits without a problem, I've seen 04's with 20k need a replacement, and 99-02's have potential issues too. while you can maintain it nicely and hope for the best, never know what's going to decide to go out.