I currently have a petrol 2000 Discovery 2 in Los Angeles, California. It has 110,000 miles and has been a hard worker these past 17 years! Running exceptionally all these years!
Without having any expert knowledge, I have managed to maintain with standard services as recommended by Atlanta British (coolant hoses, 02 sensors, etc etc.) which has saved me thousands over taking it to a shop.
The head gaskets have never been replaced and the vehicle has run great this entire time. Just recently I am noticing a loss of oil and coolant without any obvious external leaking. A car of this age is known to start needing many things replaced. The cost of the head gaskets is just one part, as while you have it taken apart it is recommended to replace hoses, gaskets, and a myriad of other things— not to mention the potential of engine failure even after this work has been completed.
Having a vehicle for this long has really made it part of the family and I can't really face the reality of getting rid of it. I really really want to keep this Disco, but I am afraid I can't afford doing the head gaskets if it means I could still very likely have very expensive problems with the engine in the coming months / years. Most people in the forums recommend a complete rebuild if you do not want any surprises down the road.
Robinson Service Blog Estimates a proper rebuild to be $12,000
http://robisonservice.blogspot.com/2013/10/should-you-rebuild-or-replace-your-land.html
My current budget maximum is not much, only $4,000— which is making me think I just keep driving it topping off oil/coolant until the bitter end.
I would love any thoughts and recommendations! Thanks
