Purchasing my frist LR - Need Help/Advice

[NewEnglandLr3]

First off, I want to say thank you to the admins this forum has been a wealth of information from all the members. I have scoured the first 8 pages of threads in the LR3 discussion and it has been extremely helpful.

I just recently graduated college, got a good job and can finally get a LR.

I however do have to purchase one used.

I am not sure if links are allowed to other sites but the one I am looking at is an 05 LR3 se, returned lease from a dealership in Peabody, MA that has a very good reputation for foreign cars. It is European Car Haus. The LR3 has 57k and they are giving me a price of 16700. They are offering to take it to Land Rover to get the full inspection done before I purchase, but am also most likely taking it to my foreign car guy who has 30 years experience on LR's.

My questions are what should I be looking at, it has had all the recalls and other problems taken care of under the lease. But what are the trouble spots that may be emerging near this mileage and beyond.

Also they are offering me a full peoples vehicle protection warranty for 48 months/60k miles. The price is 2515 for the warranty. I am looking for advice about this warranty and other options that may be better on my own.

I can not wait to join the LR community and have my dream car (minus the HD package) - Any info/advice/help would be greatly appreciated as this car fits my budget and I have a safety net set aside for the repairs I know I will encounter, but am looking to protect myself the best I can.

Thanks
J.Silva

 

[PicnSav]

Read this from Nathan Woods. Looks like good info.

http://blog.nextstepdesigns.com/

 

[mustbeaudi]

You must know what "warranty" really means - that is, read the full contract first. Search just below as we discuss the Ford plan (only 2 years more) and "exclusionary" types that cover almost everything rather than "listed items only" coverage that you do not want. Other than that, all's fair in the used car business. 57 miles is not a young car - I would find a lower mileage car or be darned sure I was covered and had another way to work in emergencies. Welcome to the real world, by the way.

 

[toddjb122]

That warranty price is pretty expensive for what you're getting. Look around on this forum for a recent warranty thread. People are finding 100K warranties in that price range.

From my personal experience I like the LR Extended I bought from the dealer. Get a quote from your local dealer and see how it compares. It is a pretty much no-hassle warranty for me as the dealer is familiar with everything that is covered. Unless you're not going to LR for service, then it probably doesn't matter.

Price sounds good to me, but definitely look around. It sounds like there are a lot of used LR3s to choose from out there so you may find a similar price to negotiate with, or a vehicle with the HD you're looking for.

Regarding what to look for...tires comes to mind. Look for uneven tire wear and/or rear alignment. That seems to be a frequent wear item.

Enjoy the truck!