Your Land Rover Discovery 3 Engine Gone? We Get You Back on the Road, Fast
30+ Customised Price Quotes in Minutes Save up to 60% now!Find Your Engine
Enter your registration number to get startedHandled by Experienced Land Rover & Range Rover Engine Professionals
We turn Land Rover engine replacement from a logistical nightmare into one seamless, guaranteed solution. Provide your registration, and we deliver discounted quotes covering the supply of a VIN-matched engine, professional fitting, and a 3–36-month unlimited mileage warranty from our network of MIRA-vetted specialists. It’s the complete repair package—no hidden costs, no uncertainty—just your vehicle reliably restored.
Why Do Land Rover Discovery 3 Engines Fail? The Technical Truth
The Discovery 3 is a fantastic car, but it has some major engine design flaws, especially the 2.7 TDV6. Understanding why they fail helps you see why a proper rebuild is so important.
The Main Problems for the TDV6:
- Crankshaft & Bearing Failure: This is the most famous issue. Problems with oil flow mean the bottom of the engine doesn't get enough lubrication. The bearings wear down, metal bits move through the engine, and eventually, the crankshaft breaks, causing the "knock of death."
- Oil Pump Failures: The standard oil pump can stop working suddenly, causing the engine to seize up in seconds because of a lack of oil pressure.
- Turbocharger Failures: Turbos wear out over time. When they break, they can send tiny metal fragments into the engine's air system, which will ruin a new engine if it isn't cleaned out properly.
How We Fix These Flaws:
Our specialists don’t just copy the original build—they make it better. A proper rebuild includes:
- Crankshaft Fix: Every crankshaft is checked, smoothed, or replaced. Higher-performance bearings are often used.
- Oil System Update: Brand-new, better oil pumps are used as standard. Every oil path is cleaned, and the oil cooler is flushed or replaced.
- Full System Clean: We chemically clean the intercooler and all pipes to remove any hidden debris. Nothing is left to chance.
- Precision Engineering: Engine heads are tested and smoothed for a perfect fit. Every bolt is tightened to the exact factory settings using professional tools.
How RR4X4works Simplifies Your Discovery 3 Engine Replacement
Think of us as your expert project manager during this engine crisis. Instead of frantically Googling "Land Rover specialist near me" and hoping for the best, you have one reliable point of contact that uses the expertise of the entire UK. Here is how we turn a nightmare into a smooth process, specifically for Discovery 3 owners.
We Start with Your Pain, Not Just a Part Number:
You tell us what happened: "It's making a horrible knocking sound from the bottom," or "It completely stopped on the motorway." We immediately understand what likely broke (was it the crankshaft or the bearings?) and make sure the quotes you get actually fix the root cause, not just swap in another engine that might fail the same way.
Your Personal Link to Vetted UK Specialists:
We don’t work with unreliable backstreet garages. Our network is made up of professional rebuilders and suppliers who are checked for the quality of their work, how well they honour their warranties, and their customer service. When you get a quote through us, it’s from a business trusted with the most difficult Land Rover jobs.
Services Designed for the Real Hassle of Engine Replacement:
- Courtesy Car Service: An engine swap takes time if it’s done properly. A courtesy car (if available) means your life doesn't have to stop. No more worrying about school runs or getting to work.
- 0% Financing (Klarna/PayPal Credit): Facing a bill for thousands of pounds is scary. We make it easier to handle with 0% finance options (conditional), letting you split the cost into monthly payments.
- Nationwide Recovery (Free or Discounted): Whether you are stuck in Cornwall or the Scottish Highlands, we arrange to get your Discovery 3 to the right specialist workshop. This service is often free or discounted, saving you another big expense.
- Video Health Check: Not sure if you can trust what the garage says? When they open up your engine, they will send you a video link. You can see the damaged parts with your own eyes. Total honesty.
- Engine Cleaning & Turbo Refurbishment: We never just drop a new engine into a dirty car. Your quote includes a deep clean of the cooling system and pipes, and a DPF (filter) clean. If your turbo was damaged, we repair or fix it with new parts, saving you the cost of buying a brand-new one.
Why Your Discovery 3’s Exact Model & Engine Code Matters
Getting the right engine isn’t as simple as just buying “a 2.7 diesel for a Disco 3.” The Land Rover Discovery 3 had different versions and important updates during its production that change how parts fit together. If you use the wrong engine code or an engine from the wrong year, you could end up with major computer (ECU) mismatches, wiring problems, and dashboard warning lights that never go out.
That is why we always ask for your VIN number. Think of it as your car’s DNA. It tells us the exact engine type, the build date, and the right specs, ensuring the quote and the parts are 100% correct. Don’t let a supplier guess—get it right the first time.
The table below shows the main versions. This is why a "one-size-fits-all" quote isn't good enough:
| Model Variant | Engine Type | Engine Code | Key Things to Know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Discovery 3 (2004-2009) | 2.7L V6 Turbo Diesel | 27D (Early) / 27T (Late) | The TDV6. Early engines often had crankshaft failures. Later '27T' engines had design updates. It’s vital to know which is which. |
| Discovery 3 (2004-2009) | 4.0L V6 Petrol | 40G | Less common. Requires very specific wiring and computer setups. |
| Discovery 3 (2004-2009) | 4.4L V8 Petrol | 44G (AJ44) | The petrol V8. It has different issues than the diesels, such as problems with the timing chain guides. |
| Discovery 3 S (2007-2009) | 3.0L V6 Twin-Turbo Diesel | 30D | An upgrade on the 2.7, but it has its own unique turbo and fuel system details. |
RR4X4works vs. A Local Rebuilder: The Discovery 3 Difference
Many local garages just offer a "like-for-like" engine swap. But with the known issues of the Discovery 3, a simple swap is a big gamble. We make sure the work is done to a standard that matches or even beats the original factory build.
| Real Discovery 3 Problem | Typical Local Garage "Fix" | The RR4X4works Specialist Method |
|---|---|---|
| Crankshaft Failure (Knocking Sound) | Put in a second-hand engine with an unknown history. | Supply a rebuilt engine with a new or improved crankshaft and better bearings. The root cause is fixed. |
| Oil Pump Failure (Engine Seized) | Just replace the seized engine with another one. | Replace the engine AND fit a brand-new, high-flow oil pump. The weak part is upgraded. |
| Turbo Failure (Debris in Engine) | Put in a new turbo and a used engine. | New/rebuilt turbo + engine rebuild + a full flush of all pipes to make sure no metal bits ruin the new engine. |
| Overheating & Head Damage | Swap in a second-hand cylinder head. | Pressure test and smooth the head. Replace all bolts and use a full set of high-quality seals and gaskets. |
| DPF Blocked (Filter Issues) | Ignore it or remove it (which is illegal). | Professionally clean or fix the DPF as part of the job so the engine stays legal and runs perfectly. |
| Other Worn Parts (Starter/Alternator) | Leave the old, tired parts on the new engine. | Test these parts while the engine is out and suggest replacing them if they are worn, preventing another breakdown later. |
From Knocking TDV6 To Complete Failure – We Handle Your Discovery 3’s Worst Day, So You Don’t Have To
We know that awful, sinking feeling. That loud rattle coming from the bottom of the engine, the clouds of white smoke, and that dreaded moment your Land Rover Discovery 3 loses all power. It isn't just a breakdown; it’s a massive headache that gets in the way of your work, your family time, and your bank account.
You aren’t just looking for a random engine—you’re looking for a solution you can trust from people who truly understand how complicated the 2.7 TDV6 and the V8 engines can be. That is where we help.
For nearly ten years, RR4X4works has been the UK’s go-to platform for Land Rover owners during their most stressful times. We aren’t just a single garage; we are a network of the UK’s most reliable, hand-picked engine specialists, rebuilders, and garages who live and breathe Land Rovers. When your Discovery 3 lets you down, we connect you directly to this expert network.
Simply give us your VIN (chassis number), and within minutes, you’ll get several accurate quotes for a replacement engine that comes with a real warranty—not just empty promises. We do all the hard work, the vetting, and the organizing, so you get plenty of choice, clear pricing, and a quick way to get back on the road. Our mission is to turn your stressful breakdown into a simple, managed process with a reliable engine at the end of it.
Your Simple Journey from Broken Down to Ready for Adventure
Getting your Discovery 3 fixed shouldn't feel like an obstacle course. With us, it’s a straight, easy road.
- Share Your VIN & Symptoms: Click "Get a Quote" and tell us what’s happening. This takes just 60 seconds.
- Instant Matching: Our system finds vetted specialists who know your exact engine.
- Get 30+ Tailored Quotes: Within minutes, you’ll have multiple clear quotes on your screen, including warranty info and prices.
- You Choose & We Organize: You pick the best quote. We then help arrange the recovery, courtesy car, and finance if you need it.
- Honest Repair & Delivery: Watch your video health check. Once it’s all done, your Discovery 3 is returned to you, fully tested and ready to go.
Your Post-Rebuild Discovery 3 Checklist – What to Expect
When you get your keys back, you should feel completely confident. Here is what a high-quality job looks like:
- Full Paperwork: A detailed invoice listing all the parts used, the work done, and your warranty certificate (usually 3-36 months).
- Healthy Start-Up: The engine should start quickly and run smoothly without lots of smoke or weird noises.
- No Warning Lights: All dashboard lights should go off after you start the car.
- Proper Fluid Levels: Oil and coolant should be at the right levels and look clean.
- Test Drive Report: The garage should have tested the car on the road to make sure everything, including the turbo and gears, is working.
- Advice for the Future: You should get clear advice on how to drive the engine gently for the first few hundred miles and when your next oil change is due.
Popular Land Rover Discovery 3 Engines
- Fuel TypeDiesel
- Engine Size2.7 cc
- Cylinders6
- Power (KW)140
- Years2004 - 2009
- Avg. Price£2,650
- Fuel TypePetrol
- Engine Size4.4 cc
- Cylinders8
- Power (KW)220
- Years2004 - 2009
- Avg. Price£5,225
Best-Selling
Used & Reconditioned Land Rover & Range Rover Engines Across the UK
These are our most sought-after engines, representing the best balance of availability, proven rebuild protocols, and customer satisfaction.
What are the most reliable replacement engines you source?DISCOVERY 3 (L319) 4.0 V6 4x4
DISCOVERY 3 (L319) 4.4 4x4
DISCOVERY 3 (L319) 2.7 TD 4x4
DISCOVERY 3 (L319) 2.7 TD 4x4
DISCOVERY 3 (L319) 4.0 V6 4x4
DISCOVERY 3 (L319) 4.0 4x4
Land Rover & Range Rover Replacement Engines
Find the Right Replacement Engine for Your Model, Year & Driving Needs
Unsure which replacement engine is right for your Land Rover or Range Rover? Let RR4x4works cut through the confusion. Simply select your vehicle to see all compatible options side-by-side—including approved used and fully reconditioned engines. Instantly compare quotes, warranty terms, and local specialist fitters for your specific Discovery, Range Rover Sport, or Defender. It's the straightforward way to make a confident choice for your vehicle and your budget.
Discovery 4 Engines , Discovery 5 Engines , Discovery Sport Engine
Popular
Land Rover & Range Rover Engine Sizes – The Most Requested Replacement Engines
We specialise in the engines that power the UK's Land Rovers. Our inventory and expertise cover high-demand units known for both performance and specific failure points, ensuring we have the right solution.
Which Land Rover engine sizes do you most commonly supply and rebuild?People also ask
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, almost always. A deep knocking sound usually means the internal bearings or crankshaft are damaged. If you keep driving it, you will destroy the whole engine.
It is a big gamble. You don't know how it was looked after. A professionally rebuilt engine fixes the known weak spots and comes with a warranty, giving you much better value for money.
It means the engine is taken completely apart. Every internal part (like pistons, rings, bearings, and pumps) is replaced with brand-new ones. It is basically a brand-new engine inside.
A simple swap can take 3-5 days. A full rebuild usually takes 7-14 days. This is why we offer courtesy cars to keep you moving.
Yes. By using your VIN, we make sure the Discovery 3 engine is the perfect match. Our specialists will also make sure the car's computer recognizes the new engine.
Yes, many of our suppliers provide engines that are built to a higher standard than the original factory ones.
Yes. A blocked filter can damage a new engine. Our service includes a professional clean to make sure everything runs smoothly.
It is often free or very cheap, depending on where you are. Your quote will show this clearly.
Just contact RR4X4works. We will talk to the garage for you and make sure any issues are fixed under your warranty. You are never on your own.
Most of our garages prefer to supply their own engines so they can give you a full warranty. If they fit an engine, you bought elsewhere, they usually can't give you a guarantee on the work.
Testimonials of
Happy Customers
“When the big ends went, I thought it was the end for my Disco 3. RR4x4 Works presented a clear choice: a gamble on a used engine or a proper rebuild that would last. Their explanation about the oil cooler and uprated bearings made the rebuild the obvious long-term decision. The process was transparent, and getting the old crankshaft and bearings back in a box showed exactly what had failed. It wasn't a quick fix, but it was the right fix. The car now drives better than it has in years.”
“When my Disco’s engine exploded, I was devastated. RR4x4 Works explained that a used engine was a lottery, but a rebuild with a stronger crankshaft could actually make it more reliable than before. Seeing the snapped crank made the problem real. Their thorough approach, rebuilding the turbos and everything, gave me total confidence. Yes, it was an investment, but I now have my vehicle back with a known, warrantied engine that should last for years. Exceptional, honest service.”
“I’d been topping up coolant for months, and two garages told me it was ‘probably a small external leak’ or the pressure cap. RR4x4 Works did a simple test with blue liquid and immediately showed me bubbles – proof the leak was inside the engine. Their explanation of sending the head to be tested and machined made total sense compared to just swapping the gasket. The repair was thorough, included the timing chain, and now my Disco 5 runs perfectly with no temperature warnings. Finally, a permanent fix.”
“My Discovery Sport was a mess – smoking, shaking, and drinking coolant. I was braced for a head gasket bill. RR4x4 Works did a proper test and found combustion gas straight away, but they also smelled diesel in the coolant. They explained it could be a cracked head and the injector seals, and that just doing the gasket was a huge risk. Getting the head tested and welded made complete sense. Now, it runs perfectly, with no leaks or smoke. Their thoroughness saved me from a comeback job and got it right first time.”
“My Discovery was becoming a smoke machine and felt sluggish. I was worried it needed a full engine rebuild. RR4x4 Works checked the turbo shaft, found it was loose, and showed me all the oil in the intercooler pipes. Their explanation that a new turbo was the logical first and most likely fix made perfect sense. They cleaned everything out properly and now it runs like new, with no smoke and plenty of power. A clear, honest diagnosis that saved me from a much bigger bill.”
“When my turbo exploded on the M1, the recovery driver said ‘just needs a new turbo.’ RR4x4 Works found the real problem: a solid, blocked oil pipe. They explained that just bolting on a new turbo would have been like fixing a burst pipe without turning off the water main. Flushing the whole system and replacing all the lines made total sense. It wasn't the cheapest quote, but it was the only one that explained the why. The car now drives perfectly, and I know it won't happen again next week.”
“Everywhere I called said ‘head gasket’ as soon as I mentioned white smoke and coolant. RR4x4 Works did a simple test that proved it wasn’t the head. They found the leak was in the EGR cooler and explained exactly how the coolant was getting into the engine. Cleaning out the whole intake system and intercooler was a revelation – the amount of gunk that came out was shocking. Now it runs cleanly, doesn’t use a drop of coolant, and the oil is clean. Their diagnostic skill saved me from an unnecessary and massive repair bill.”
“The startup rattle on my Range Rover was so bad it was embarrassing. RR4x4 Works diagnosed it immediately as timing guides. They explained that just fixing the broken ones would be a temporary patch, as the others were just as old. Doing the full job on both sides made complete sense for a permanent solution. The difference is night and day – it now starts as quietly as a new car. Their expertise saved me from a future breakdown and a second huge labour bill.”
“The startup rattle on my Evoque was getting worse. RR4x4 Works didn't just listen to it; they hooked up computers and pressure gauges. They showed me the data that the chain was stretched and explained that just changing it might not last if the oil pressure wasn't spot on. Replacing the pump at the same time made total sense for a long-term fix. The process was clear, and now the car starts silently every time. They treat the cause, not just the symptom.”
“The startup rattle on my Evoque was getting worse. RR4x4 Works didn't just listen to it; they hooked up computers and pressure gauges. They showed me the data that the chain was stretched and explained that just changing it might not last if the oil pressure wasn't spot on. Replacing the pump at the same time made total sense for a long-term fix. The process was clear, and now the car starts silently every time. They treat the cause, not just the symptom.”
“My Evoque was becoming a smoke machine and felt sluggish. I was worried it needed a full engine rebuild. RR4x4 Works checked the turbo shaft, found it was loose, and showed me all the oil in the intercooler pipes. Their explanation that a new turbo was the logical first and most likely fix made perfect sense. They cleaned everything out properly and now it runs like new, with no smoke and plenty of power. A clear, honest diagnosis that saved me from a much bigger bill.”
“I was going in circles with my Sport – it kept overheating but never leaked a drop on my driveway. The smell inside was worrying. RR4x4 Works used a smoke machine and showed me exactly where it was leaking from under the supercharger. Their explanation about all the internal seals ageing together made complete sense. Doing the full set of seals while it was off the car was the only logical choice. Now it runs cool and the smell is gone. Expert diagnosis and a proper, lasting fix.”
“When I saw that brown gunk on the dipstick, I feared the worst. RR4x4 Works diagnosed the oil cooler straight away but stressed that just changing it wasn't enough. Their explanation about the abrasive sludge hiding everywhere made perfect sense. Their process of flushing, cleaning the turbo lines, and even the intercooler was thorough. They showed me the clogged oil pickup screen – it was frightening. Now the oil is crystal clear, and it runs perfectly. They didn't take shortcuts, and that's why I trust them.”
"The startup rattle on my Supercharged Sport was so loud it was embarrassing. RR4x4 Works diagnosed it immediately as timing guides. They explained that just fixing the broken ones would be a temporary patch, as the others were just as old. Doing the full job on both sides made complete sense for a permanent solution. The difference is night and day – it now starts as quietly as a new car. Their expertise saved me from a future breakdown and a second huge labour bill."
“The startup rattle on my Range Rover was so bad it was embarrassing. RR4x4 Works diagnosed it immediately as timing guides. They explained that just fixing the broken ones would be a temporary patch, as the others were just as old. Doing the full job on both sides made complete sense for a permanent solution. The difference is night and day – it now starts as quietly as a new car. Their expertise saved me from a future breakdown and a second huge labour bill.”
“My Range Rover was drinking coolant and overheating, but no garage could find the leak. RR4x4 Works used a smoke machine and showed me exactly where it was escaping – from under the supercharger. Their explanation about the internal seals made perfect sense. They recommended replacing the whole set and the coupler while it was apart, which stopped me worrying about the next failure. The repair was thorough, and now it runs cool and holds coolant perfectly. Exceptional diagnostic skill and honest advice.”
“After weeks of worrying about the rattle and scary oil light, the team at RR4x4 Works took the time to show me the diagnostic data and explain exactly why just doing the chains might not last. They presented the different options clearly without any pressure. Choosing the full repair was a decision based on understanding, not fear. The car has been silent and perfect ever since, and I have total confidence in it again. This is how all car repairs should be handled.”
“I brought my Evoque in with that horrible cold start rattle, terrified the engine was about to blow. The team at RR4x4 Works didn’t just give me a quote; they took the time to show me the diagnostic codes, explain exactly why the front and rear parts needed doing, and laid out my options without any pressure. The difference now is incredible—it starts like a new car and the power is back. I have complete confidence that this fix is permanent. Their thoroughness and expertise are worth every penny.”
“I was going in circles with my Sport – it kept overheating but never leaked a drop on my driveway. The smell inside was worrying. RR4x4 Works used a smoke machine and showed me exactly where it was leaking from under the supercharger. Their explanation about all the internal seals ageing together made complete sense. Doing the full set of seals while it was off the car was the only logical choice. Now it runs cool and the smell is gone. Expert diagnosis and a proper, lasting fix.”
“My Velar had become embarrassing to drive – juddering at lights and sounding like a diesel. RR4x4 Works didn’t just guess; they showed me the camera footage of the clogged valves and explained the timing chain data. Opting for the full repair made complete sense. I got my car back feeling and sounding like new. Their thorough approach saved me time and money in the long run, and I finally enjoy driving it again.”
“After my Vogue started looking sorry for itself every morning, I dreaded a huge bill. RR4x4 Works found not one, but two separate leaks. They explained how just doing the spring would likely lead to the compressor failing soon after. Their approach of fixing the whole problem made complete sense. The repair was efficient, and the car now sits perfectly level all the time. Their knowledge saved me from a future breakdown and expense.”