Range Rover SUVs evoke images of luxury and off-road prowess, but when the topic of reliability arises, a cloud of doubt often follows. The brand has wrestled with a reputation for less-than-stellar dependability, prompting many prospective buyers to question: is a Range Rover a reliable car? While some concerns are typical of the luxury vehicle segment, Range Rovers also face specific criticisms, ranging from electrical gremlins to premature wear in advanced suspension systems, sometimes leading to more frequent shop visits compared to other high-end vehicles.
To understand the Range Rover’s reliability, it’s crucial to first clarify the relationship with Land Rover. Land Rover is the overarching manufacturer, akin to Ford or Honda, while Range Rover represents a specific line of luxury-focused models within the Land Rover family. Currently, the Range Rover lineup includes four distinct models: the flagship Land Rover Range Rover, the sporty Range Rover Sport, the stylish Range Rover Velar, and the compact Range Rover Evoque.
Conversely, the Land Rover brand also encompasses models like the Land Rover Defender, Land Rover Discovery, and Land Rover Discovery Sport. These vehicles, while still offering a degree of luxury, prioritize off-road capability and ruggedness. Despite their different positioning, both Land Rover and Range Rover vehicles share many underlying components and technologies.
Are Used Range Rover SUVs Good Cars in Terms of Reliability?
Purchasing a used Range Rover SUV can be a rewarding experience, offering luxury features at a potentially more accessible price point. However, when considering a pre-owned model, due diligence is paramount, especially concerning reliability. Thoroughly researching the specific vehicle’s history and meticulously reviewing its service records are essential steps.
Like any vehicle, a Range Rover can achieve longevity and dependability with consistent and proper maintenance. However, it’s important to acknowledge that as a luxury marque, Range Rovers generally demand a higher level of maintenance compared to more mainstream brands like Toyota, Kia, or Hyundai. Prospective owners should factor in these potentially increased running costs when evaluating the long-term reliability and ownership experience of a used Range Rover.
Understanding How Car Reliability is Measured
Before diving deeper into Range Rover’s reliability specifics, it’s beneficial to understand the common metrics used to assess vehicle dependability. Several reputable sources provide valuable insights into car reliability:
- J.D. Power Dependability Awards: These awards are based on owner surveys and assess problems experienced during the past 12 months by original owners of three-year-old vehicles.
- Kelley Blue Book’s (KBB) 5-Year Cost to Own: KBB provides estimates for vehicle ownership costs over five years, including depreciation, maintenance, repairs, fuel, insurance, and financing, offering an indirect measure of potential long-term reliability expenses.
- Safety Ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): While primarily focused on safety, these ratings can indirectly reflect reliability, as vehicles with robust engineering and construction tend to perform well in both safety and durability.
- Average Repair Costs per RepairPal: RepairPal aggregates data on repair costs, frequency, and severity across various makes and models, providing a direct measure of potential repair expenses and frequency.
These resources offer a framework for evaluating the reliability of any vehicle, from fuel-efficient sedans to spacious SUVs, including luxury models like Range Rovers and their competitors.
5 Key Factors Influencing Range Rover’s Reliability Profile
To gain a comprehensive understanding of Range Rover’s reliability, let’s examine five critical factors: safety ratings and features, average repair costs, cost of ownership, fuel efficiency, and dependability scores from reputable organizations.
1. Safety Features and Ratings
Currently, neither the NHTSA nor the IIHS has officially crash-tested and rated the Land Rover Range Rover model line. Despite the absence of formal ratings, Range Rovers are equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety technologies, including:
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Steering Assist
- Blind-Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Back-up Camera
- Automatic LED headlights and high beams
- Lane-Keep Assist
- Traffic Sign Recognition
- Front and Rear Parking Sensors
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Higher trim levels, such as Autobiography and SV, further enhance safety with features like a color heads-up display (HUD) and an automated parking system. While official crash test ratings are lacking, the inclusion of these advanced safety features indicates a strong commitment to occupant protection.
2. Average Repair Costs
Data from RepairPal estimates the average annual repair cost for Land Rover Range Rover vehicles to be approximately $1,258. This figure is notably higher than the average for many other brands, reflecting the premium nature and complex engineering of Range Rovers. Furthermore, RepairPal’s reliability ratings for Land Rover as a brand are less favorable, awarding only two out of five stars. Within the luxury full-size SUV segment, the Range Rover ranks 15th out of 19 models, suggesting below-average reliability compared to its direct competitors. RepairPal data also indicates that Range Rovers visit repair shops an average of 0.6 times per year, with a 19% probability of requiring a severe repair, highlighting a potential for both frequent and significant maintenance needs.
3. Cost of Ownership
Kelley Blue Book (KBB) estimates the five-year cost of ownership for a 2024 Land Rover Range Rover to be a substantial $141,174. To put this into perspective, consider some competing luxury SUVs. The 2024 Lexus LX, known for its reliability, has a five-year ownership cost of $124,734, while the 2024 Jeep Grand Wagoneer is estimated at $128,491, and the 2024 Dodge Durango at $135,765. These comparisons suggest that the Range Rover’s cost of ownership is on the higher end, even within the luxury SUV category, potentially reflecting higher depreciation, maintenance, and repair expenses.
4. Fuel Efficiency
Range Rovers are not typically recognized for exceptional fuel economy. The 2024 Land Rover Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models are among the least fuel-efficient in the lineup, achieving an EPA-estimated 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway, resulting in a combined 19 mpg. The Range Rover Evoque offers slightly better figures at 20 city/27 highway/22 combined mpg. The most fuel-efficient Range Rover is the Velar, rated at 22 city/26 highway/23 combined mpg. While these figures are typical for large, powerful SUVs, they contribute to the overall cost of ownership and may be a consideration for buyers prioritizing fuel economy.
5. Dependability Ratings
Despite some concerns about reliability, the Range Rover has received accolades for its performance and appeal. J.D. Power recognized the 2023 Land Rover Range Rover as the “best performance large premium SUV.” The 2022 model year also earned a respectable overall score of 76 out of 100 from J.D. Power. Within this score, Quality & Reliability received a strong 80 out of 100, suggesting that while problems may occur, they might not be overwhelmingly frequent or severe in the initial years. However, Driving Experience (72), Resale (73), and Dealership Experience (73) scores were slightly lower. In the 2022 J.D. Power rankings for large premium SUVs, the Land Rover Range Rover placed third, behind the Cadillac Escalade and BMW X7, indicating competitive performance within its segment but not leading in overall dependability.
Common Problems Reported by Range Rover Owners
Despite advancements in automotive technology, Range Rovers, like many luxury vehicles, can experience recurring issues. Understanding these common problems can help prospective buyers make informed decisions and prepare for potential maintenance needs.
1. Oil Leaks
Oil leaks are a frequently reported issue across various Range Rover models and engine types. Pinpointing the source of these leaks can be challenging as they can originate from multiple points within the powertrain. While crankshaft seal failures are sometimes identified as the cause, oil leaks can stem from various gaskets, seals, or connections throughout the engine and drivetrain.
2. Infotainment System Glitches
Modern Range Rovers feature sophisticated infotainment systems that control a wide array of vehicle functions, from climate control and audio to navigation and vehicle settings. However, owners have reported instances of glitchy behavior, including touchscreen freezes, unresponsiveness, or system malfunctions. In many cases, resolving these infotainment issues requires a complete system reboot or software update.
3. Air Suspension Failures
Range Rovers are renowned for their exceptionally smooth and comfortable ride, largely attributed to their air suspension systems. However, air suspension components are complex and can be prone to failure over time, leading to significant repair costs. Even in recent generations, air suspension issues persist as a common concern. Some owners have opted to replace failing air suspension systems with traditional coilover suspensions as a more permanent and potentially more reliable solution.
4. Electrical Issues
Electrical problems have historically been a concern for Range Rover vehicles. Recently, Jaguar Land Rover North America issued recalls for certain 2022-2023 Land Rover Range Rover models due to a potential taillight malfunction that could increase the risk of accidents. Beyond recalls, various electrical issues have been reported across different Range Rover model years. It’s worth noting that many of the more pervasive electrical problems are associated with earlier Range Rover generations, particularly the second generation produced from 1994 to 2001.
Which Range Rover Models Tend to Be More Reliable?
Within the Range Rover family, consisting of the Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, Range Rover Velar, and Range Rover Evoque, certain models have emerged as potentially more reliable than others based on owner reports and available data.
Range Rover Velar
The Range Rover Velar, being a relatively newer model introduced in recent years, shows promise in terms of reliability. The 2020 model year, in particular, is often cited as being among the more dependable Velar versions. While newer models benefit from updated infotainment systems and technologies, these advancements can sometimes introduce initial teething problems. The 2020 Velar strikes a balance between modern features and a more established track record.
Range Rover Sport
The Range Rover Sport appeals to buyers seeking a blend of Range Rover luxury with enhanced sporty driving dynamics and off-road capability. Several model years of the Sport have garnered positive reliability feedback. Models from 2021 to 2023, as well as the 2014 model year, are often ranked favorably for reliability. Furthermore, used Range Rover Sports are more readily available in the market compared to the flagship Land Rover Range Rover, potentially offering a wider selection for buyers seeking a more reliable pre-owned option.
So, Are Range Rovers Ultimately Reliable Cars?
In conclusion, when considering is a Range Rover a reliable car, the answer is nuanced. Range Rovers exhibit a level of reliability that is generally comparable to other luxury vehicles, particularly those in the higher price brackets. In the realm of premium automobiles costing upwards of six figures, some degree of increased maintenance and potential for issues is often accepted as part of the ownership experience. Range Rover competes with established luxury brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Bentley, and Rolls-Royce, all of which can have their own reliability considerations.
Ultimately, many Range Rover owners are drawn back to the brand for its unique combination of opulent comfort, distinctive design, and advanced features. The decision to purchase a Range Rover often involves weighing the allure of luxury and capability against the potential for higher maintenance costs and occasional reliability concerns. For some buyers, the unique appeal and driving experience of a Range Rover outweigh the reliability question marks, while for others, prioritizing bulletproof dependability might lead them to consider alternative luxury brands.
