LAND ROVER DISCOVERY Buying Guide & Reliability (1990-2020)

LAND ROVER DISCOVERY Overview The Land Rover Discovery is a versatile and robust SUV that has been a staple in the automotive market since its introduction in 1990. With a total of 2,417 registered vehicles in the UK, the Discovery has established itself as a popular choice among drivers seeking...

Last updated September 08, 2025 1998 words Based on real UK vehicle data

LAND ROVER DISCOVERY Overview

LAND ROVER DISCOVERY Overview

The Land Rover Discovery is a versatile and robust SUV that has been a staple in the automotive market since its introduction in 1990. With a total of 2,417 registered vehicles in the UK, the Discovery has established itself as a popular choice among drivers seeking both luxury and off-road capability.

Spanning three decades, the Discovery has undergone numerous updates and redesigns, with model years ranging from 1990 to 2020. The vehicle has a respectable MOT pass rate of 76.2%, indicating a solid level of reliability among its owners. However, common failures have been reported, particularly in categories such as lighting (218 failures), brakes (204 failures), and suspension (202 failures).

In terms of fuel type, the majority of Land Rover Discoveries are diesel, with 2,358 registered, while petrol variants account for only 57. The colour distribution shows a preference for black (571 vehicles), grey (546), and silver (421), reflecting popular choices among UK consumers.

Yearly distribution of registered vehicles indicates a strong presence of more recent models, with 151 registered in 2017 and 170 in 2016. In contrast, older models from the early 1990s have significantly fewer registrations, with only three from 1990.

Regarding tax status, 1,588 vehicles are currently taxed, while 477 are untaxed and 351 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). The average annual mileage for the Discovery stands at 7,626 miles, suggesting a balance between daily driving and leisure use.

Data accuracy is subject to change, and the statistics provided are based on the latest available information. For the most current details, please refer to official sources.

Reliability and MOT Performance

The Land Rover Discovery has established itself as a popular choice among SUV enthusiasts, with a total of 2,417 registered vehicles in the UK. Spanning model years from 1990 to 2020, this vehicle has a diverse history that reflects its evolution in design and technology.

In terms of reliability, the Discovery has a MOT pass rate of 76.2%. This figure indicates that a significant majority of vehicles pass their annual inspections, although it also highlights that some owners may face challenges in maintaining their vehicles to the required standards.

Common reasons for MOT failures include issues related to lighting, brakes, and suspension. Specifically, 218 failures were attributed to lighting, while 204 were due to brake problems, and 202 were linked to suspension issues. Additionally, there were 291 failures classified under 'Other' categories, which may encompass a range of less common issues.

The fuel type distribution shows a strong preference for diesel, with 2,358 diesel vehicles compared to just 57 petrol and 2 LPG models. This preference may influence the overall reliability and maintenance costs associated with the Discovery, as diesel engines often require different care compared to petrol engines.

Colour distribution among registered vehicles reveals a notable trend, with black (571), grey (546), and silver (421) being the most popular choices. This aesthetic preference may reflect the vehicle's appeal in various markets.

With an average annual mileage of 7,626 miles, the Discovery is typically used for both daily commuting and leisure activities. However, potential buyers should consider the vehicle's tax status, with 1,588 vehicles currently taxed, 477 untaxed, and 351 declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification).

Data accuracy is subject to change, and while this information is based on the latest available statistics, it is advisable to verify details with official sources.

What to Check When Buying Used

When considering a used Land Rover Discovery, there are several key factors to evaluate to ensure you make a sound investment. With a total of 2,417 registered vehicles from 1990 to 2020, it’s essential to understand the common issues and overall reliability of this model.

The MOT pass rate for the Land Rover Discovery stands at 76.2%, indicating that while many vehicles pass their tests, a significant number may have underlying issues. Common failures include problems with lighting (218 cases), brakes (204 cases), and suspension (202 cases). It’s advisable to check the vehicle’s MOT history for any recurring issues in these areas.

Fuel type is another consideration, with the majority of Discoveries being diesel (2,358), while petrol and LPG options are significantly less common. This can affect running costs and availability of parts, so ensure you choose a fuel type that suits your needs.

Colour preference can also play a role in resale value. The most common colours for the Discovery are black (571), grey (546), and silver (421). If you’re looking for a vehicle that holds its value, consider these popular options.

Annual mileage averages around 7,626 miles, which is relatively low. However, it’s important to check the specific mileage of the vehicle you’re considering, as higher mileage can indicate more wear and tear.

Lastly, verify the tax status of the vehicle. Out of the registered Discoveries, 1,588 are taxed, while 477 are untaxed and 351 are SORN. An untaxed vehicle may require additional costs to bring it back on the road.

Always ensure to conduct a thorough inspection and consider obtaining a professional assessment before finalising your purchase. Data accuracy is based on the latest available statistics and may vary.

Running Costs and Specifications

Running Costs and Specifications

The Land Rover Discovery, a versatile and robust SUV, has been a popular choice among UK drivers since its introduction in 1990. With a total of 2,417 registered vehicles, the Discovery has established a strong presence in the market, spanning model years from 1990 to 2020.

In terms of running costs, the average annual mileage for a Discovery is approximately 7,626 miles. The vehicle predominantly runs on diesel, with 2,358 diesel models compared to just 57 petrol and 2 LPG variants. This fuel distribution indicates a preference for diesel, which is often associated with better fuel efficiency for larger vehicles.

The MOT pass rate for the Discovery stands at 76.2%, suggesting that while many vehicles are roadworthy, there are common issues that owners should be aware of. The most frequent failures noted during MOT tests include lighting (218 failures), brakes (204 failures), and suspension (202 failures). Other categories, such as general issues and windscreen problems, also contribute to the overall failure rate.

When considering the colour distribution of the Discovery, black (571), grey (546), and silver (421) are the most popular choices among owners, reflecting a preference for classic and understated aesthetics.

Tax status data reveals that 1,588 vehicles are currently taxed, while 477 are untaxed and 351 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). This information can be useful for potential buyers assessing the vehicle's market viability.

It is important to note that the data presented here is based on current registrations and MOT test results, and while efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, figures may vary over time.

Alternative Models to Consider

If you're considering the Land Rover Discovery, it's worth exploring some alternative models that may suit your needs. The Discovery is known for its off-road capabilities and spacious interior, but there are several other vehicles in the same category that offer similar features.

One notable alternative is the BMW X5. This luxury SUV combines performance with comfort, making it a strong contender for those who appreciate a refined driving experience. The X5 has a solid reputation for reliability and boasts a range of powerful engines.

Another option is the Volvo XC90. Renowned for its safety features and family-friendly design, the XC90 provides ample space and a premium interior. With a high MOT pass rate of 76.2% for the Discovery, it's essential to consider the XC90's reliability and performance in comparison.

The Mercedes-Benz GLE is also worth considering. This model offers a blend of luxury and practicality, with advanced technology and a comfortable ride. Like the Discovery, the GLE is designed for both on-road and off-road adventures, making it a versatile choice.

For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Skoda Kodiaq presents a compelling case. It offers a spacious interior and a range of efficient engines, making it a practical choice for families. While it may not have the same prestige as the Discovery, it provides excellent value for money.

In summary, while the Land Rover Discovery is a popular choice with 2,417 registered vehicles in the UK, alternatives like the BMW X5, Volvo XC90, Mercedes-Benz GLE, and Skoda Kodiaq are worth considering. Each of these models has its unique strengths, catering to different preferences and budgets.

Data accuracy is based on the latest available statistics and may vary. Always verify details with official sources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the average MOT pass rate for the Land Rover Discovery?

The average MOT pass rate for the Land Rover Discovery is 76.2%. This indicates that a significant majority of vehicles pass their MOT tests, although some may require repairs to meet safety and emissions standards.

2. What are the common reasons for MOT failures?

Common reasons for MOT failures in the Land Rover Discovery include issues related to lighting (218 failures), brakes (204 failures), and suspension (202 failures). Additionally, there are 291 failures categorized as 'Other', which may encompass a variety of issues.

3. How many Land Rover Discoveries are currently registered in the UK?

As of now, there are 2,417 registered Land Rover Discoveries in the UK. This figure reflects the popularity and enduring appeal of this model among UK drivers.

4. What fuel types are available for the Land Rover Discovery?

The majority of Land Rover Discoveries are diesel vehicles, with 2,358 registered. There are also 57 petrol models and 2 LPG models, catering to a range of preferences among drivers.

5. What colours are most common for the Land Rover Discovery?

The most common colours for the Land Rover Discovery include black (571 vehicles), grey (546 vehicles), and silver (421 vehicles). Blue and green are also popular, with 389 and 172 vehicles respectively.

6. How many Land Rover Discoveries were registered in recent years?

In recent years, the distribution of registrations shows that 2017 had 151 vehicles, while 2018 had 113. The latest registrations include two vehicles from 2020.

Disclaimer: The data presented here is based on the latest available statistics and may be subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please consult official sources.

Data Source: This guide is based on analysis of extensive UK vehicle database in our database, including MOT test results and DVLA records.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for guidance only and is based on historical data in our database. Always verify current vehicle details with official sources and get a professional inspection before purchase.

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