Landrover Freelander question

MacDiz

First off, please bear in mind that I am absolutely clueless when it comes to cars, I have zero mechanical knowledge!

So now, my issue. I'm looking at buying a 2005 Freelander (1.8 petrol) and was curious as to why they're so cheap in comparison to other suv's. Doing a bit of trawling I found out there's a problem with the head gasket, and most sites I saw advised to get it changed before it blows.

My questions (if I was to buy this car) are:

1) After how many miles should I be looking to get the head gasket changed?

2) Is it an expensive job?

3) Is it a permanent fix?

Thanks in advance

You may never need to get it done, repair should be permanent if rootcause is fixed too. SHould only be about 200 more than a timing belt service if the car isnt after overheating, lots of folk drive on a failed head gasket.

MacDiz

Thanks for the reply!

L-M

They're also horrible on petrol! Make sure all the windows and bits work too.

101sean

As RoverJames says, don't ignore signs of overheating and lift the bonnet at least weekly to check the fluid levels (a strange concept to many owners I know :rolleyes:)

The amount of coolant in them is comparatively small and owners ignoring problems leads to damage. Later ones with an improved head gasket should be OK but follow still check regularly. The Td4 diesel is more popular but will be dearer to buy.

johnos1984

Check the 4x4 works also.

As everyone else says most of the problems can be prevented by giving the car 5 minutes of a checkover a week.

exador

aside from all the technical advice on what to watch out for have you driven the car ?

If you are really set in freelander the TD4 diesel engine is a better bet but as previously said more expensive. I don't personally like them and particularily the petrol version but if thats what you like just make sure you drive if first