AI-generated · grounded in NHTSA data
Reliability & 5-year cost of ownership — 2002 Land Rover Defender
Overall rating NHTSA-grounded
Below average
Estimated 5-year repair + maintenance cost: $12,000–$18,000
The 2002 Land Rover Defender shows below-average reliability with several issues in the engine and power train. These problems, though not extremely common, can lead to high repair costs and frequent visits to the mechanic.
Most-common failures
| Part | Typical mileage | Cost range | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| engine cooling | 50,000–80,000 miles | $500–$1,200 | common |
| engine | 70,000–100,000 miles | $1,500–$3,000 | common |
| power train | 80,000–120,000 miles | $800–$2,500 | occasional |
Scheduled maintenance to budget
Routine items every owner should plan for.
- Oil and filter change
- Timing belt replacement
- Coolant system flush
- Brake pad inspection
- Transmission fluid change
- Spark plug replacement
Warning signs to watch for
Symptoms that signal a major upcoming repair.
- Overheating engine
- Clunking noise in transmission
- Unexpected engine stalls
- Transmission fluid leaks
Generated by gpt-4o on 8/24/2026. Cost ranges are conservative estimates that account for typical regional variation.