Buying advice

[Highland_Defender]

Hi all, Looking to buy a Freelander 3dr and was wondering what advice you all could give on what to look out for.

An 05,06 3door td4 is whats planned. Any advice is greatfully received.

Thanks

[V8MoneyPit]

That age and engine will be a pretty safe bet.

Check the rear locking cubby in the boot floor. It can corrode. That's about the only rust prone area.

Listen for bearing rumbles from between the front seats... VCU bearings.

Drive round on full lock. The rear tyres should 'scramble' a little. If it drags excessively, the VCU could be seized. This happens when the vehicle has spent all it's life on tarmac.

Knocks from the back when you go on or off the power tends to be diff mounts. Cheap and easy to sort.

We've had turbo hoses split. Whistles like mad and accelerates like a glacier! Again, cheap and easy to sort.

Check the rear window drops a little as you lift the handle to open the tail door. And operate it fully from the switch.

Autos are nice IMO. Manuals are too high geared if you intend any off road use.

And, of course, a good service history is always nice.

Can't think of anything else for now! I'm sure others will!

[Landy1uk]

Check the rubbers on the back where the top comes off make sure not damage due to getting caught putting the top back on
think v8moneypit has covered the rest

[carbore]

I think all I can add is.

Check for uneven tyre wear/scrubbing as it can be an indicator of poorly drivetrain.
A considerate owner will have matching tyres on both sides as allegedly mixing is bad for the VCU.

Also remember there are a lot about, so you can pick a good one.

think about what toys you want, my ES spec has cruse, 6disc changer, an Heated screen/seats all of which is lovely (not sure if thats all ES spec, headed goodies may be the Climate pack)

Also most people recommend a 5 door, obviously if you like the 3 dr then fine, but if you have kids then a 5dr may be the way to go?

Good luck.