What to Check When Buying a Used Range Rover Sport
The Range Rover Sport is one of the most desirable SUVs on the used market, and it’s not hard to see why. Stylish, capable, and packed with technology, a well-maintained example can be an outstanding used buy. However, buying the wrong one can turn into an expensive headache.
At Broadfields Garage, we carry out pre-purchase inspections and work on Range Rover Sport models on a regular basis. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what to look for when buying a used Range Rover Sport, so you can buy with confidence.
Which Range Rover Sport Should You Buy?
The Range Rover Sport has been through two main generations:
The L320 (2005 to 2013) and the L494 (2013 onwards).
Both are excellent vehicles, but they have different characteristics and known issues. As a general rule, a well-maintained L494 with lower mileage will be the safer used buy, while a carefully chosen L320 can represent excellent value if you know what to look for.
Engine choice matters too. The diesel models (particularly the TDV6 and SDV6) are popular for their economy, but they do have some known issues at higher mileages. The V8 petrol models are fantastic to drive but thirsty. The supercharged V8 variants are the most desirable but also the most expensive to run and maintain.
Check the Service History First
Before you even look at the car itself, ask to see the full service history. A Range Rover Sport with a patchy or incomplete service history is a risk. These vehicles need regular, proper maintenance to stay in good condition. Ideally you want to see stamps at regular intervals from a Land Rover dealer or a reputable independent specialist.
Pay particular attention to whether the oil has been changed at the correct intervals. The TDV6 engine in particular does not tolerate neglected oil changes well, and the consequences can be severe.
Air Suspension
The Range Rover Sport uses an air suspension system, and this is one of the first things to check on any used example. With the vehicle running, look at each corner and make sure the vehicle is sitting level. Take it for a drive and listen for any unusual noises from the suspension, or any warning lights relating to the suspension system.
Ask the seller to demonstrate the suspension raising and lowering through the different height settings. It should do so smoothly and without hesitation. Any reluctance, unusual noises, or warning lights are a red flag.
Air suspension repairs can be costly, so it’s essential to get this checked before you buy. Our team at Broadfields can carry out a thorough pre-purchase inspection. Contact us via our servicing and repairs page for more information.
Check for Oil Leaks
Get underneath the vehicle and look carefully for any signs of oil leaks. Common areas to check include the engine, gearbox, transfer box, and differentials. A small amount of surface grime is normal on any used car, but fresh oil or wet patches are a warning sign.
Oil leaks on a Range Rover Sport don’t always mean disaster (many are relatively straightforward to fix) but they should be factored into your offer price, and you should understand exactly what you’re buying.
Timing Chain (Listen Carefully)
On diesel Range Rover Sport models, timing chain condition is important. Start the engine from cold and listen carefully for any rattling or ticking from the engine. A healthy engine should be relatively quiet on startup. Any rattling (particularly on a cold start that disappears once the engine warms up) should be investigated before you buy.
Timing chain replacement is a significant job on these vehicles, so factor this in if you have any concerns.
Cambelt Replacement Intervals
Some Range Rover Sport engines (including certain V6 diesel variants) require cambelt replacement at set intervals. Unlike a timing chain, a cambelt is a rubber belt that degrades over time regardless of mileage. A cambelt that snaps without warning can cause catastrophic engine damage in an instant.
Always establish whether the cambelt has been replaced at the correct interval on any used example you’re considering. If there’s no record of it being done, factor in the cost of replacement before you commit to buying.
Electrical Systems and Warning Lights
The Range Rover Sport is a technology-rich vehicle, and it’s important to make sure all of the electronic systems are functioning correctly. During your inspection and test drive, check that the following are all working properly: Terrain Response system, parking sensors and cameras, heated and cooled seats, electric tailgate, all lighting including adaptive headlights where fitted, air conditioning, and the infotainment system.
Any warning lights on the dashboard should be investigated using proper diagnostic
equipment before you commit to buying. At Broadfields, we have the specialist diagnostic tools needed to read and interpret Range Rover Sport fault codes accurately. Find out more on our servicing and repairs page.
Bodywork and Interior Condition
Check the bodywork carefully for any signs of accident damage… look for inconsistent panel gaps, mismatched paint, or signs of filler. Check the sills and wheel arches for rust or corrosion, particularly on older L320 models.
Inside, check the condition of the leather seats and dashboard carefully. Repairs to Range Rover Sport interiors can be expensive, so factor in any wear or damage when negotiating the price.
Tyres and Brakes
Check the tyre tread depth on all four corners and make sure the wear is even. Uneven tyre wear can indicate suspension or alignment issues. Check the brake discs through the wheels… They should be clean and free from heavy scoring or rust.
At Broadfields we supply and fit Land Rover tyres for all Range Rover Sport models, and carry out full brake inspections as part of our MOT testing and servicing.
Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection
The single best thing you can do before buying a used Range Rover Sport is to have it independently inspected by a specialist who knows these vehicles inside out. A pre-purchase inspection gives you a clear picture of exactly what you’re buying, and can save you from an expensive mistake.
We’ve seen plenty of customers come to us with problems that could have been avoided had they got the car checked before buying. A small inspection fee is nothing compared to the cost of a major repair on a vehicle you’ve just bought.
Book a Pre-Purchase Inspection at Broadfields
Thinking about buying a used Range Rover Sport? Get in touch with the team at Broadfields Garage before you commit. We’re an independent Land Rover specialist based in Dunmow, Essex, and we know these vehicles inside out.
We offer full servicing and repairs, MOT testing, tyres, air conditioning, and performance upgrades… all at fair, honest prices with no main dealer markup. We also offer a collection and delivery service for your convenience.
Call us on 01371 872 940 or email info@broadfieldsgarage.co.uk to get in touch.
