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D4Novice
Member Since: 07 Nov 2016
Location: Prestbury, Cheshire
Posts: 74
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| My Test Drive. Your Help. Please! |
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Okay, so I've bought this one owner car over the phone subject to an inspection when I collect it next week:
https://www.cars2.co.uk/used-result/?id=404105
It has been serviced by a Land Rover Dealership at 9890 9/13, 17563 9/14, and 24973 9/15 . It is due for it's 4yr service which I have booked in for 48hrs after collection at my local Indy (http://www.dselandroverservices.com/) in Macclesfield who I believe has a good reputation. At this time I'll ask them to cast a quick eye over the car to make sure it is as it should be but what should I be doing on the test drive? If I can locate a problem I'd rather do it at source than when I have paid and driven it away.
So far I know to press every button. From reading on the site I need to check to see if it falls under the Roof Recall. I also want to pay particular attention to the raising and lowering of the suspension and to check underneath for damage. I'm not overly familiar with D4's and although I'm doing a lot of reading any suggestions would be appreciated.
Also, is it possible to locate the original spec of the car so I can make sure it is as advertised? It isn't coming from a specialist so it is possible that there are some bells and whistles not listed or perhaps some that are that shouldn't be. Not a big issue, and I'm not accusing them of dishonesty, but they see all types of cars so I don't expect them to be experts.
For the record I got it for about £28k which is significantly cheaper than anything I could find in the dealer network. Difference will be put into a slush fund because the warranty won't be as good. That said, there are dogs in the network and great cars outside it. I'm hopeful this is the latter and as best as I can tell it's a good price!
Assuming all is well I'll book the car in to have it's windows tinted at http://swtints.co.uk/ for £180 and then will most likely install a side step at the aforementioned D.E.S. once I've lived with the car for a bit. I think this will prove useful for my kids (8 and 6) but for those that have them, are they prone to damage on curbs etc? It's not an item I want to be replacing every 12mths.
Finally, as things occur to me I'll post updates on this thread to keep all my dumb questions in one place.
I hope you enjoy our buying experience together!
Thanks in advance,
Last edited by D4Novice on 10th Nov 2016 1:23 pm. Edited 1 time in total
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 10th Nov 2016 10:04 am |
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hilly10
Member Since: 29 Sep 2016
Location: Staffordshire
Posts: 325
  
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Looks a nice clean car and as you say having inspected should give you piece of mind. Regard the Spec most of the main dealers never get it right so would not worry to much. Being an HSE it will have a great Std spec anyway 17 Golf GT TDI Tornado Red
BMW 5 Series Touring
New Toy 1974 TR6 Memosa Yellow
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| 10th Nov 2016 12:16 pm |
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Brian_DL13
Member Since: 25 Aug 2013
Location: Teesdale
Posts: 1418
 
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A quick browse down the equipment list and it all looks to be there. Including a couple of extras that you have to specify / pay extra for.
A couple of things to check apart from the obvious:
- ride height change to access and off road heights working OK?
- Fuel Burning Heater working OK ? (turn it on before first stating the car)
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| 10th Nov 2016 12:22 pm |
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Someone-Gone
Member Since: 21 Dec 2015
Location: Gone
Posts: 5117
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Good price. 
As for the side steps, they help kids get in and out, save people dinking your car, makes cleaning the roof easier, they are a plus and don't damage normally with kerbs unless very high. They may make a difference if you go off roading.
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| 10th Nov 2016 1:15 pm |
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D4Novice
Member Since: 07 Nov 2016
Location: Prestbury, Cheshire
Posts: 74
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Brian_DL13 wrote:A quick browse down the equipment list and it all looks to be there. Including a couple of extras that you have to specify / pay extra for.
A couple of things to check apart from the obvious:
- ride height change to access and off road heights working OK?
- Fuel Burning Heater working OK ? (turn it on before first stating the car)
How do I do these two things and what am I looking for?
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| 10th Nov 2016 1:21 pm |
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dlgis
Member Since: 02 Oct 2015
Location: Tunbridge Wells
Posts: 398
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Check low ratio is working, and various terrain settings. Listen out for any knocking noises from bushes front and back, although shouldnt be an issue at that mileage. Before the car is started go into the instrument cluster menu display and check the oil level. This should tell you how much its used since the last service, assuming it hasnt been topped up. If it has the tow pack, check that the tow hook and its storage case are in the rear side cubby hole. Any vibration from steering or warped discs. Smooth gear changes. Etc etc. D4 GS 12MY
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| 10th Nov 2016 4:31 pm |
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HughMartin
Member Since: 30 Mar 2008
Location: Aberdeenshire
Posts: 751
 
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I started knocking up the following pre-purchase inspection schedule a few months ago but never got round to finishing it. It is by no means complete and need some good proof reading so would appreciate any ideas on things I have missed or got wrong. I will then get it formatted better and made into a downloadable PDF.
There are obviously variations on vehicles depending on exact MY and options but it should give you something to work with.
Pre Purchase Inspection of 2012 Discovery D4
Equipment required
• Fault Reader
• Plug in Voltmeter
• Music CD
• Notebook and pen
If possible, get all codes read and cleared before test drive.
Carry out complete walk round checking for
damage,
paint flaws,
door/panel gaps,
wheel damage
Check correct operation of smart key buttons (all keys)
Note external optional extras
Tow bar fitted? Presence of red blank
Towing electrics fitted?
Stand on rear bumper and check roof
note VIN from inspection window nearside lower corner of windscreen
Open bonnet and check
General condition in engine bay
condition of bonnet insulation blanket
oil level and condition
coolant level and condition
Check condition of air hoses
check condition of aux drive belt
open batter cover and check visual,condition of battery and date stamp if possible
open 2nd battery cover and check brake fluid level and for contamination.
leave bonnet open
Check each wheel. Note tyre size, condition remaining tread, even wear. Check behind wheel for condition of brake pipes, disks etc.
Check presence of spare wheel - Full size or space-saver?
Operate rear offside passenger door and check for smooth opening and closing. Check condition of seats, internal trim, seat belts etc.
Check folding seat mechanism.
Check 3rd row seat base.
Check courtesy lights
Check rear ventilation louvred for free movement.
Check ashtray area and presence of Aux audio input.
Remove rubber mats if fitted and check carpet for condition and dampness.
Open luggage compartment doors and check for correct operation and closing.
Check security of upper door stay body mounts
Check condition of internal trim, sides, ceiling, carpets 3rd row seat belts
Raise 3rd row seats and check condition and operation.
Open cubby boxes and check contents, - complete tool kit and wheel nut locking key
Check operation of spare wheel hoist. Lower to inspect spare wheel and raise again.
Check operation of courtesy light
Check for corroded upper door handle retaining torx screws
Check for presence of load cover
Operate rear nearside passenger door and check for smooth opening and closing. Check condition of seats, internal trim, seat belts etc.
Check folding seat mechanism.
Remove rubber mats if fitted and check carpet for condition and dampness.
Operate front nearside passenger door and check for smooth opening and closing
Check condition of trim, seats etc.
Remove rubber mat if fitted and check carpet for condition and dampness.
Open glove compartments and check contents.
Open main glove compartment and check for presence of Document wallet complete with handbook. Check interior light.
Lower main glove compartment door to lowered position and check fuse box for non OEM wiring modifications. Check presence of fuse extractor tool.
Operate driver's door and check for smooth opening and closing
Check condition of trim, seat etc.
Remove rubber mat if fitted and check carpet for condition and dampness.
Check condition of foot pedal runners are commensurate with vehicle mileage.
Switch in ignition and check warning light illuminations.
Tachometer – 6 lights
Centre screen – 4 light along the top
Speedometer – 3 lights
After self test, you should be left with
Centre screen – Amber triangle and red battery symbol
Speedometer – Red Seat belt warning and possibly green “lights on” depending on vehicle configuration.
Check mileage and displayed outside air temperature
Depending on how long car has been unused, voltage should be not less than 11.5volts, ideally between 12 – 13v
Check all switches for correct function.
1. Horn
2. All external lights including brake lights and puddle lights
3. All window operating switches (drivers door and individual doors). Check for auto closing (May just need reset if not operating)
4. Radio controls including steering wheel radio controls. Insert CD and check.
5. Speakers all working
6. Heater controls (not heated windscreens)
7. Winscreen wash / wipers
8. Electric seat – full range of movement in all axis.
9. Electric sunroof
10. Electric mirror adjustment
11. Check for quiet operation of electric parking brake (EPB) with correct indication (Red warning on tachometer. No amber warning)
12. Check other instruments for sensible indications (fuel gauge etc)
13. Check rear view mirror and adjust
Start Engine.
Engine start sequence should start immediately if warm or possible after a couple of seconds if engine cold on cold day.
Battery light should extinguish. After a few seconds, voltage should rise to between 14-15v.
Listen for unexpected noises. Check under bonnet.
Check Suspension reacts correctly to raising and lowering commands
Check Remote operation of suspension using smart key (all doors closed and hazard warnings on – see handbook for further info)
When ready to go on test drive, with EPB applied, select “D” and check EPB releases automatically when accelerating.
Drive car normally and check for normal response from accelerator, brakes, steering etc.
At slow speed, dab the brakes firmly. Any clunks could be indicative of worn front suspension arms.
Check Command Shift steering wheel controls. Check for correct gear indication on centre screen.
Check full steering lock in both directions
When safe to do so, carry out emergency stop
Perform heavy acceleration and check for smoke from exhaust or sounds indicative of blown turbo hose. Acceleration should be sharp with little lag.
Check reverse gear
Check Low ratio, forward and reverse
If possible find a hill and check Hill Descent mode
Check cruise control
Check engine temperature gauge warming up and warm air from all vents
Check air conditioning
Switch off all heating and ventilation in attempt to induce misting of front and rear windscreen in order to check heated screens. If suspicion of windscreen not heating, placing a bag containing ice on the windscreen. This should induce condensation which should clear when windscreen heating put on. Remember front screen is split heating, LHS & RHS elements
On return to parking, check parking sensors (front and rear and cameras if fitted).
Using an assistant, check luggage compartment door safety interlock. It should not be possible to open the luggage compartment door with the engine running without gearbox selector at “P”.
With engine still running ( select “P”” and EPB applied), open bonnet and check for signs of leaks and unexpected noises.
Switch off engine. Voltage should remain at approx. 12.5-13v
If possible, get codes read again for any faults which were still “live” during test drive.
After approx 10 minutes since engine switch off, select oil level on service menu for correct level.
Check all paperwork.
• Service Record, receipts
• MOT
• V5C Registration document
Do VINs agree? Do mileage records check out. Number of previous owners.
If buying from franchise dealer, check all recalls are up to date.
Ideally, car should now be placed on ramp for full underbody inspection with a good torch. Check for leaks, corrosion (brake pipes especially) damage, engine/gearbox protection covers in place etc etc.
Using written notes you took during the inspection, negotiate the best price you can !
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| 10th Nov 2016 6:47 pm |
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adam
Member Since: 20 Sep 2005
Location: Home and Happy
Posts: 6917
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Only thing I can think to add to comprehensive list above is to make sure remote / central locking locks all doors - rear units can fail (lock the doors, move key out of range, check doors - I've had 2 go - about £200 each fitted.)
I'm not a million miles from you in Cheadle Hulme - Indy I use is LandRanger in Stockport - can recommend.
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| 10th Nov 2016 6:57 pm |
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D4Novice
Member Since: 07 Nov 2016
Location: Prestbury, Cheshire
Posts: 74
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Thanks HughMartin. That is one hell of a list!
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| 11th Nov 2016 11:29 am |
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D4Novice
Member Since: 07 Nov 2016
Location: Prestbury, Cheshire
Posts: 74
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adam wrote:I'm not a million miles from you in Cheadle Hulme - Indy I use is LandRanger in Stockport - can recommend.
I called LandRanger and they come out at about the same price but they have a four week wait. I'll take such a wait as a good sign but in this instance I could do with it being sooner. Thank you all the same for the recommendation.
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| 11th Nov 2016 11:57 am |
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D4Novice
Member Since: 07 Nov 2016
Location: Prestbury, Cheshire
Posts: 74
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A quick question on the spare wheel. I cannot see from the pictures if one is still attached to the car so when I put my head under the car I hope to find it.
Thereafter, what am I looking for? I've seen some mention of the spares being expensive alloys. Is that always the case or was that an extra, and if so, how do I know if my car should have it?
I will report back if I find one of Uncle Ray's devices attached!
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| 12th Nov 2016 10:33 pm |
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Hairy Dan
Member Since: 19 Jan 2011
Location: Co. Durham
Posts: 12319
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The D4's came as standard with a space saver spare wheel, the full alloy and tyre was a £180 extra but alloys are always for sale on here. If you have a look underneath and there isn't any wheel at all it will probably need a new winch as well as wheel/tyre Cheers Ian
--------------------
Club N.E.R.D.S
Kielder 4x4 Safari
Discoless
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| 12th Nov 2016 10:46 pm |
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1967jester
Member Since: 05 May 2010
Location: Usually in the North East though I have been known to travel
Posts: 4470
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Can I add to the list:
iPod & lead if you have one/ Aux lead (3.5mm jack at each end)
USB stick with a couple of MP3 files
DVD
Looks a good price for mileage, I've seen a couple at 49k + mileage for a little more money Paul.
06 Java Black HSE - gone
12 Baltic Blue HSE - gone
15 Fuji HSE Lux
Club Biscuits, mmmm nice!
Traxide/Luna hybrid & Yellow top
Some Prospeed bits
+ some other stuff
Club N.E.R.D.s.
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| 12th Nov 2016 10:58 pm |
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D4Novice
Member Since: 07 Nov 2016
Location: Prestbury, Cheshire
Posts: 74
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Two quick questions:
1. How do I active the 'heated start' feature so I can ensure it works. I'll check the exterior of the car while this runs but how long should I give it before getting in to see if it worked? Obviously outside temp impacts this but should I feel heat from the vents after just a couple of mins?
2. How do I check low range and what do I look for? I've never driven a car with such before.
D-Day is tomorrow. Hopefully I can then move to a different section of the forum and start posting pics!
Thanks
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| 15th Nov 2016 11:37 am |
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spikekellyrm
Member Since: 23 Jul 2015
Location: Manchester
Posts: 662
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Very nice, I do often wish mine had the nicer leather!
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| 15th Nov 2016 12:01 pm |
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