IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2012 Land Rover Discovery 4 (L319)

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 2012 Land Rover Discovery 4 (L319). 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

4
Known Issues
1
Serious
3
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

3.0 SDV6 Crankshaft Failure

SeriousEngine

Sudden, catastrophic failure of the crankshaft or main bearings, requiring a replacement engine.

Est. Repair Cost: £5,000–£10,000
Warning Signs:

Sudden engine cut-out, Deep knocking noise, Low oil pressure warning

What to Inspect:
  • Service record consistency
  • Presence of metallic glitter in oil
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Inlet Manifold Cracking

ModerateEngine

The plastic inlet manifolds on 3.0 diesels crack under heat cycles, causing boost leaks, restricted performance mode, and DPF regeneration failures.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£1,000
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect inlet manifold for cracks
  • Check for boost leaks under load
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Front Lower Suspension Arm Wear

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

The front lower control arm bushes wear prematurely on UK roads, causing knocking noises at low speed and uneven tyre wear.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£700
Warning Signs:

Clonking noise over bumps, Knocking under braking, Uneven front tyre wear

What to Inspect:
  • Front lower arm bushes
  • Drive forward and reverse while braking to test
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

EGR Valve and Intercooler Hose Failures

ModerateEngine

EGR valves crack and intercooler hoses split, causing boost pressure loss, power reduction, and black smoke under load.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£1,200
Warning Signs:

Loss of power, Black smoke from exhaust, Restricted performance mode

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect intercooler hoses for splits
  • EGR valve operation
  • Check for soot around EGR
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2012 Land Rover Discovery 4 (L319)

  • ✓Demand a perfect service history with frequent oil changes (every 6 months preferred)
  • ✓Listen for any bottom-end knock from the 3.0 diesel engine
  • ✓Check front suspension lower arms; they wear frequently on UK roads
  • ✓Verify the 8-speed automatic (2012+) shifts cleanly