Range Rover Sport Reliability and Common Problems

You won’t regret buying a new or used Range Rover Sport. It’s an impressive SUV known for its agile handling, which is handy both on and off the road. However, it may be expensive to own and maintain. Depending on its model year, it may also hold value well. On average, however, the Range Rover Sport depreciates an average of 53% after five years, according to CarEdge.com.

Are Range Rover Sports Reliable?

Due to its frequent repairs as well as high ownership and maintenance costs, the Range Rover Sport received an average 2.5 out of 5.0 reliability rating from RepairPal. It ranked 10th out of 19 SUVs in the same category. However, many luxury SUV fans still consider the Range Rover Sport to be a great choice because of its superb driving experience. Range Rover models usually last between 150,000 to 200,000 miles, as long as you properly follow their maintenance and service schedule. The Range Rover Sport likely has a similar lifespan.

Top Range Rover Sport Problems

Some Range Rover Sport models have their fair share of problems. Here are the most common issues you may encounter with various Range Rover Sport models:

Excessive Vibrations

The Range Rover Sport’s propshaft problems may cause excessive vibrations, which can be felt from its cabin. This is a common issue for all Sport model years, including other Land Rover models, such as the Discovery 3 and 4. According to experts, the propshaft usually fails because its rubber parts and bearings can easily wear out.  Worn-out parts can cause an imbalance, which is frequently accompanied by vibrations and abnormal rumbling noises. Sport owners can prevent this problem by paying extra attention to propshaft care. Some experts have advised that you should regularly grease your propshaft and routinely check it for any apparent wear. You should also inspect your propshaft’s joints, because these are also prone to damage.

Fuel System Problems

One of the most severe Range Rover Sport problems is the 2017 model’s fuel system. This Sport model was included in a recall issued in 2018 due to multiple fuel system issues. According to Land Rover, some Range Rover and Range Rover Sport vehicles manufactured from August 29, 2016 to January 19, 2017, may have defective fuel gauges. The faulty gauges may show that fuel levels are low when they’re not. In addition, affected SUVs may also have a malfunctioning engine management software, which can intermittently shut down the engine. If the engine suddenly dies, the Sport’s power brake assistance may also fail, which can increase the risk of a crash. Both issues may cause harm. Land Rover has guaranteed to notify owners of affected SUVs, so that it can provide all the necessary repairs for free.  

Defective Door Locks

The Range Rover Sport’s door lock problems caused Land Rover to recall over 65,000 SUVs in 2019. This recall includes some 2014-2016 Range Rover Sport units built from May 9, 2012 to March 5, 2015. These SUVs have a keyless vehicle latching system, which may malfunction or refuse to activate. The affected Sport’s doors may appear locked even if they aren’t, which can cause the doors to suddenly open while the SUV is moving. Land Rover has said that owners may contact them for more information. Affected vehicles will be inspected and all necessary repairs, including software updates, will be done for free.

Harsh Downshifting

Harsh downshifting is one of the most notable Range Rover Sport problems, particularly with the 2006-2007 and 2016 models. The automatic transmission may lunge or thump every time you shift from second to first gear. Some owners have shared that they encountered forceful clunks during stop-and-go traffic or when they slowed down to stop. They’ve also shared that these sounds usually happen with low-mileage SUVs starting at 46,500 miles. Technicians said that this is commonly caused by outdated transmission control module software. Getting an update can help resolve this issue and restore your SUV’s smooth shifting capability. 

Faulty Parking Brake

One of the most widely reported Range Rover Sport problems is its faulty parking brake, commonly found in 2006-2011 and 2013 models. According to mechanics, these Sport models have parking brakes that tend to develop unusual screeching noises and then eventually fail. This issue usually starts when the SUV reaches around 90,800 miles. Some owners have shared that the problem started with a long screeching noise after pressing on the electronic parking brake. They’ve reported that it may happen frequently until the parking brake stops working altogether. 

Others have shared that they had to get their SUVs towed to safely transport them. They’ve reported that this issue may happen because of corrosion, which can damage important brake components like brake pads or rotors. Some technicians have shared that this problem may also be linked to damaged parking brake cables or actuators. Replacing these faulty parts can help resolve this issue and restore parking brake performance. 

Leaky Sunroof

The 2006-2008 Range Rover Sport may develop water leaks around its sunroof. This usually happens at around 90,000 miles. According to reports, the water leaks can get really bad and soak various areas of your SUV’s interior. Some owners have shared that their rear view mirrors got wet because of water leaks. They’ve also reported that the water could trickle to the carpet and other interior electronics, such as the radio and display. Technicians said that these leaks are commonly caused by damaged sunroof drains. We recommend that you regularly inspect your SUV’s drain tubes to prevent any water leaks.

You won’t regret buying the Range Rover Sport because it’s an iconic SUV. However, you should take time to research and learn about the potential problems of the model year you’re interested in. Being aware of its common issues can help you maintain your Range Rover Sport and manage problems as they happen. It’s also important to thoroughly discuss and clarify information with the seller before closing the deal.