IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2009 Land Rover Discovery 3 (L319)

The final year of the Discovery 3 saw the model fully sorted before the transition to the Discovery 4. These late models often represent the most reliable iteration of the L319 platform.

What changed for 2009

  • •Final production year for the Discovery 3.
  • •Higher standard specification on run-out models.

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !EGR valve failures leading to 'Restricted Performance' warnings.
  • !Wear on wheel bearings, common given the vehicle's immense weight.
3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Air Suspension Compressor and Bag Failures

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

The air suspension system suffers from perished air bags, failing compressors, and leaking valves. The compressor overworks when bags leak and eventually fails.

Est. Repair Cost: £400–£1,500
Warning Signs:

Vehicle sagging overnight, Slow to raise, Noisy compressor, Suspension warning light

What to Inspect:
  • Ride height after overnight parking
  • Compressor noise
  • Air bag condition for cracks
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Electronic Parking Brake Failure

ModerateBrakes

The internal gears of the EPB module strip, causing it to jam or screech.

Est. Repair Cost: £500–£900
Warning Signs:

Loud screeching from the rear, "Parking Brake Fault" message

What to Inspect:
  • EPB operation multiple times
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

EGR Valve Clogging and DPF Blockage

ModerateEngine

EGR valves clog with soot causing limp mode, power loss and black smoke. The DPF blocks if the vehicle is mainly driven on short urban trips without motorway regeneration runs.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£2,000
Warning Signs:

Restricted performance mode, Black smoke, Loss of power, DPF warning light

What to Inspect:
  • EGR valve condition
  • DPF regeneration history
  • Driving pattern (motorway use)
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2009 Land Rover Discovery 3 (L319)

  • Check the operation of the split tailgate, ensuring both upper and lower sections open and close smoothly.
  • Test the Terrain Response system through all its modes to ensure the air suspension reacts correctly.
2008
Check a 2009 Land Rover Discovery 3 (L319) by Registration