Models · Land Rover
Land Rover Discovery 5 buying guide
The fifth Discovery, launched in spring 2017 with four-cylinder Ingenium and V6 engines and an eight-speed automatic on every car. A 2021 update brought new lights, better infotainment and six-cylinder mild-hybrid engines.
The versions
- 2017 to 2021 diesels: 2.0 SD4 twin-turbo (240hp), 3.0 TD6 V6 (258hp), replaced in 2018 by the 3.0 SDV6 (306hp)
- 2017 to 2021 petrols: 2.0 Si4 (300hp) and 3.0 supercharged Si6 V6 (340hp), both rare in the UK
- From 2021: D250 four-cylinder diesel, D300 and P360 mild-hybrid straight-sixes, and P300 petrol
- ZF eight-speed automatic on all; a full-size spare wheel was standard
What to check on a Discovery 5
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
SD4 engine oil and history
What to look for: On a 2.0 SD4, check the dipstick for the oil level and condition, look for Land Rover approved servicing every two years or 21,000 miles, and ask whether the engine has ever been replaced. On the drive, note any poor idling or stalling when pulling away.
Why it matters: Some SD4 engines were replaced after metal fragments were found in the oil, apparently from failed piston rings, with many failures around four years and 35,000 to 45,000 miles. A car with a replacement engine fitted under warranty and a full approved history is a reasonable buy.
Vibration at motorway speeds
What to look for: On the drive, hold a steady 65 to 75mph and feel for vibration through the steering and floor. Listen for knocks from the front on rough roads.
Why it matters: Vibration at those speeds is often an out-of-balance front driveshaft. Front ball joints can also wear early, below 50,000 miles.
Air suspension
What to look for: Raise and lower the car through its heights and check it sits level after standing, with no suspension warnings.
Why it matters: Air suspension leaks and failed pumps are among the known faults. A car that holds its height and responds promptly is what you want.
Also in the full guide
- Windscreen and roof leaks
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the Discovery 5
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
Land Rover Discovery 2 · Land Rover Discovery 3 · Land Rover Discovery 4
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Land Rover.