Land Rover as we all know is a brand with a long history of making vehicles with nothing but practicality even though they are positioned in the premium category. The Land Rover LR4 is a midsize SUV with rather impressive specs on paper but was only sold to 7,970 customers. This number is very low considering the fact that the rivals achieved over four times this figure. The major reason for poor sales is the underlying issues with the LR4 that don’t seem to have a fix yet. NHTSA report carries a total of just 13 complaints with a single recall but other online forums show that the users have had a tough time living with this SUV. Another factor that cuts down the sales for Land Rover is the strong line-up of rivals that includes the BMW X5, the Porsche Cayenne, and the Mercedes Benz ML350.
User complaints and problems
Electrical Problems
- Stereo – The stereo system was said to have multiple complaints with no recalls for it so far. The users stated that the stereo system cuts out and becomes inoperable. This also meant that the phone calls had to be attended using the phone itself and this can cause a major safety risk while driving. Research online stated this to be a common issue and the multiple software updates the car received were of no use and they failed to get rid of the issue. Users were left with the only option to live with the issue until Land Rover comes up with a fix.
- Brake warning – The users started to notice a reduced braking performance but the issue was that the brake warning lights never illuminated and the dealers found the electronic brake distribution to have a fault, for which the lights are supposed to blink. The respective sensor needed to be replaced in order to have the warning light functioning.
Mechanical Problems
- Engine – The users reported the engine failing abruptly and it was said that they only performed an oil change in recent times. However, dealers stated the reason for the failure to be low oil. The oil level was found to be 1.7 quarts and the users stated that there were no oil level warnings. All the gauges and indicators were said to be normal. This was said to be a common issue and the users had to opt for a new engine.
- Fuel system – The contact stated that the car had a strong fuel smell near the passenger side rear door area. This was said to happen while the car was running and upon some inspection, the user found fuel leaking from the fuel tank area and was later able to identify a crack. The faulty part had to be replaced to avoid any fuel vapor fire.
Interior Problems
- Temperature dial – The rubber finish on the dials to adjust the air conditioner temperature is peeling off and has become sticky. Reports suggest that 80% of vehicles with these dials have the same issue but there have been no recalls and replacing it costs $500.
2011 Land Rover LR4 recalls
|
S. No. |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1. |
12th August 2021 |
21V635000 |
Fuel outlet flange may crack and leak fuel. |
The outlet flange mounted on the fuel tank may crack, causing the fuel to leak, and in the presence of an ignition source, the risk of a fire increases |
Dealers will replace the outlet flange. |
Should you buy the 2011 Land Rover LR4?
The 2011 Land Rover LR4 carries its distinctive styling and drive character that would suit many and this could be the vehicle for you if you also enjoy some off-road. However, for the masses and regular usage, there definitely are better options available in the market. The users have reported facing a stereo glitch that still hasn’t been fixed or addressed by Land Rover. There also have been cases of the engine failing for which the manufacturer has not given out any explanation yet. However, if you manage to find a Land Rover LR4 that passes the engine diagnostics without any fault and also has no stereo glitches, it is worth buying the SUV. Otherwise, opting for the BMW would be ideal as they offer better reliability at a lower price when compared to the Land Rover.
