Land Rover Discovery Parts Sources

Examples of Lowest Priced Sources We Have Found

Atlantic British Largest independent supplier in North America -- vast array of parts & accessories at low prices, personal service by people who are Rover owners themselves. I have bought many parts here -- never had one that didn't "plug and play". Examples: Disco I Bottom Radiator Hose $39.95 OEM Lockheed Brake Pads: Discovery I Bumper End Caps $27.95 Discovery I $24.95 front, $29.95 rear set Fuel Injectors (set of 8 Bosch -- Classic, 4.0/4.6) $599.95 ($75 each) Discovery II $39.95 front, $27.95 rear set Discovery I Fuel Pump (complete plug & play) $199.95
British Pacific Since 1973, focused on providing the highest quality genuine, OEM & aftermarket parts at low prices. Huge inventory means most orders are shipped same day. Expert personal service that you won't find at any generic auto parts supplier, and their price on almost anything is very hard to beat. Don't miss Steve's "Deal of the Day" , the only DAILY specials page devoted to US model Land Rovers. The largest stock of Land Rover books & manuals in the US, and a huge selection of off road & expedition gear (diff lockers, skid plates, expedition roof racks & tents, jerry cans, bridging & sand ladders, IPF lighting etc). Examples (use their price lookup feature for up to the minute prices): Genuine LR trailer wiring harness: $180-213 Ignition wire sets, Disco II, GWS101 $39.99 Water pump, '87-'94 Disco: STC483 $99.99 Rotoflex rear driveshaft coupling : TVF100010 $60 Viscous fan coupling, Disco I ETC1260 $149.99 Factory Repair Manual Disco 95-98: LRL0079 $79.95
Speedycarparts.com (Import Parts Bin) Save 40-60% on Parts for Discoverys Plus Free Shipping on orders over $50 Lowest Prices Guaranteed (Select model year then click "Select Make: Rover Parts") Examples: Disco I Girling Brake Booster Servo $293 Disco 3.9 O2 Sensors (Bosch 13021, rewire plug)(Do a part# search for 13021) $56.93 Disco I Power Door Lock Actuators $116 Disco I Y Pipe & Catalytic Converters $489 Disco I Power Steering Box (rebuilt) $350 Customer Comments: "My order was just delivered about an hour ago! All of my Land Rover parts were intact and in great shape. I will be doing my auto parts ordering from you all of the time now!" "I would like to tell you that you are the most honest people in this auto parts field, so please keep up the good work."	AutoPartsGIANT.com Select parts group & model year,then Select Vehicle: "Land Rover" Guaranteed Lowest Prices (They offer to beat any lower price by 10%). Free Shipping on Orders over $50. Examples: Rebuilt Lucas Starter Motors (Disco I) $206.52 Brake Pad set front plus rear (Disco I) $39.81 Disco I Front Brake Rotors $45 Disco I Front Calipers complete w/pads $72 Brake Master Cylinder (Disco I) $163 Monroe Shocks (Disco I) set of 4 $111 Ignition Lead Set (Disco I) $15.79 Rebuilt Power Steering Pump (Disco II) $182.75
partsamerica.com On-line access to Checker, Schucks, Kragen and Advance Auto Parts, with nearly $1.5B in inventory and 3,000 locations. Search real-time inventory & purchase on-line. Home delivery or pick up at local store. Exchange or return at local store Low price guarantee. Examples: Disco I A/C Compressor $339.99 Disco I Idle Air Bypass Valve (AC-Delco 217-437) $41.99 Disco I Water Pump $139.99 Transmission Filter Kit & O-Rings $15.99 Belt Tensioner Assembly Disco I $101.99	ExpressAutoparts.com Millions of parts -- Free Shipping on orders over $75 Select year and make ("Land Rover") Examples: Rebuilt Lucas Alternator (Disco I) $178 Disco 4.0 O2 Sensors (Re-use connector) $46 Fuel Cut-off Inertia Switch $57
Radiator.com Guaranteed highest quality & perfect fit. Unlimited lifetime warranty, quality & fit guarantee. "I was very impressed. Everything fit perfectly, and your radiator is better built, with better materials, and higher capacity than the original"	Will Tillery Plug & Play O2 sensors for Disco I $95 (Free Shipping)
Car Cannibal The premier source for used and rebuilt Discovery parts and accessories -- they deal exclusively in Rovers. All Components are warrantied, 90 days to 2 years depending on part, with an easy return policy. This is an especially valuable resource for parts that are unavailable or extremely expensive from the usual aftermarket suppliers (eg body and interior parts etc). Fill in their simple "Part Request" form for any part you need.

Strutmasters: Air Suspension Alternatives
Complete air springs, bellows, etc. Their goal is to help you repair your air suspension at affordable prices.
Example: Complete Disco II 1998-2004 Rear Air Spring $179. Believe it or not, these come with a Lifetime Warranty!!!

Phoenix Remanufactured Transmissions is a major rebuilder of transmissions in the US, and supplier of parts for all transmissions. They rebuild the ZF 4HP22 and 24 transmissions used in Range Rovers and Discoverys -- this very same transmission is used in a multitude of other British and European vehicles, so their prices are extremely inexpensive. Dave Foster recently got one for his 1991 Range Rover for $1,050. A 12 month, 12,000 mile warranty is standard, and optional plans up to 4 years and 48,000 miles are available. To find the right tranny on their website, just click on European imports, Land Rover, then Range Rover. Phoenix is a major rebuilding and parts house, and all their remanufactured transmissions are dyno tested and warrantied.

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Genuine Land Rover Discovery parts are generally expensive compared with those of lesser vehicles, especially in the US. However, many of the mechanical and electrical parts are shared with other vehicles, and even the Rover V8 engine itself was originally developed by Buick. Thus, if you know what you are looking for, many items that will fit Discoverys can be obtained under different part numbers from regular US auto parts suppliers.

By scouring parts catalogs both paper and online, and with significant help from various Land Rover internet lists, private emails, personal experience, and owners who have written in with their experiences, I have assembled the following examples of parts from other vehicles or generic suppliers that will work on a Discovery. Naturally, I can make no promises or guarantees about the listings, but hope you will find what you are looking for. The suppliers in the box above help support this website if you buy from them. However in the listings below, we strive to compare all available sources to provide information on the lowest prices available regardless of whether the supplier supports us or not. Please email me if you find lower prices for any parts so we can share your knowledge with others.

Air Conditioning
Land Rover air conditioning systems were added on as an afterthought, as the British do not really understsand hot weather. The units used in the Disco I employ standard Sanden parts which are used on many other vehicles; any automotive air conditioning shop can do repairs on it. To convert the air conditioning system to CFC-Free refrigerant, see the Refrigerant Conversion Kits section below and the complete details on the A/C Upgrade page.

Compressor:
The Land Rover Discovery A/C compressor is the same as the generic Ready Aire 2345. Rebuilt Discovery A/C compressors can be purchased from Atlantic British for $549.95 plus shipping. The Rover Connection has rebuilt compressors for $395.
The lowest price I have seen for the Discovery I air conditioning compressor & clutch assembly is $339.99 for the Ready Aire 2345 at partsamerica.com (click on "shop by category -- replacement parts").

Receiver/Drier:
Aftermarket replacements for the receiver/drier for the Discovery A/C system are available from Atlantic British for $64.95; however I recently found them for $25.99 from partsamerica.com

U Joints:
Replacement aftermarket Discovery U joints cost $55 each from typical Land Rover aftermarket suppliers. I recently found generic replacement U-joints to fit the Discovery I for $7.99 at partsamerica.com, $7.08 each at ExpressAutoparts.com and $5.25 at AutoPartsGIANT.com.

Aftermarket sources for Discovery body parts are few and far between. For used parts, wreckers can be one source -- see this link. I have not yet found many low cost sources for new parts; if you know any please email me. However, I am starting a list below of best deals on new parts found to date.

Bumper End Caps:
Currently (as of November 2003) Atlantic British is selling these for $27.95 and I have not seen a cheaper source.

Door Handles:
Greg Olma found door handles available at D.A.P. Enterprises for $44 each. (The genuine ones cost $114 at the dealer).

Tailgate Handle:
The genuine Discovery rear tailgate handle is expensive, but a replacement for the complete assembly is available from Speedycarparts.com for $41.27.

Window Motor:
The prices for genuine Discovery window motors are staggering. Even aftermarket houses like Atlantic British charge about $240 for them. I was amazed to find Bosch replacements at Speedycarparts.com for half this price -- $122. (They are listed in their "body mechanical and trim" section for your Rover model year).

Brake Booster/Servo:
The Vacuum Brake Booster/Servo Unit for the Discovery I is usually over $500. I found it for $415 from The Rover Connection. and $399.95 plus shipping from Atlantic British. Amazingly, the Lucas/Girling brand Discovery Brake Booster / Servo is listed at Speedycarparts.com for $294 with free shipping.

Brake Pads:
Rich Lee has tried both aftermarket (Mintex) and Genuine pads front and rear on his Discovery, and much prefers the OEMs, despite the fact that they cost a lot more, probably don't last as long and may wear the rotors faster. They seem to grab better, fade less (though neither fade much) and definitely squeal less than the Mintex pads. However there is no denying that the aftermarket pads can save you a lot of money. For example, the least expensive ones that Atlantic British sells are only $49.95 for the front set and $39.95 for the rears. Partsamerica.com has them for $27.88 (front) and $25.99 (rear).
The lowest price I have seen for aftermarket Discovery brake pads is $22.54 for Auto Specialty brand pads (front) and $17.17 (rear, KEM brand) from AutoPartsGIANT.com. The complete set (front and rear) adds up to $39.81!! The same supplier lists half a dozen different options from other manufacturers.

Brake Pad Retaining Cotter Pins:
Greg Olma suggests “Go to a fastener supply house. I believe that a 5/32 dia. 3" long pin will do (this is from memory). Better yet, take an old one to compare. The ones I found are a little longer, which doesn't matter. The pins cost pennies”. For example, partsamerica.com sells a complete hardware kit including the cotter pins and retaining springs for $7.57 (front) and $5 (rear).

Master Cylinder (Pre ABS):
The master cylinder used on the Discovery I is available for $249.95 at Atlantic British, $203 at ExpressAutoparts.com (Beck/Arnley brand). The Rover Connection has an aftermarket replacement for $180.
The lowest price I have seen for the Discovery I master cylinder is $163 for the Beck/Arnley brand unit at AutoPartsGIANT.com.

Rotors:
Genuine Discovery brake rotors are about $130 each; aftermarket units (front or rear) are available from Atlantic British for $99.95 (drilled) and $79.95 (solid). Speedycarparts.com has them for $51 (front) and $44.94 (rear).
The lowest price I have seen for Discovery front brake rotors (otherwise called discs) is $45.51 at AutoPartsGIANT.com.
The lowest price I have seen for Discovery rear brake rotors (discs) is $40.99 each at partsamerica.com

Calipers:
Replacement Discovery brake caliper assemblies are around $250-$350 each; for example Atlantic British sells them for $259.95 (front) and $189.95 (rear) plus shipping. The Rover Connection has them for $205 (front or rear). I found the rear ones at ExpressAutoparts.com for $69.
The lowest price I have seen was $46 for the rear calipers and $72 for the front ones at AutoPartsGIANT.com -- and these include pads!!
Caliper reseal kits are available from Atlantic British for $20 or AutoPartsGIANT.com for $14 (front) and $11 (rear).

Belts:
The 94 and 95 models used a different serpentine belt than the 96 and later models. They need to be replaced regularly to avoid failures in the field. Both belts sell for about $25-30 at most Land Rover mail order houses (for example The Rover Connection has both of them for $28 each). I found both the early and late model Discovery serpentine belt for $13.99 at partsamerica.com!!

Belt Tensioner Assembly:
Atlantic British has this for $179.95 plus shipping.
The lowest price I have found for the Discovery belt tensioner assembly (3.9 models) is a Dayco replacement (their part number 89289) at partsamerica.com for only $101.99!!

Belt Tensioner Sealed Bearing:
If you want only the sealed idler pulley bearing, Keith Armstrong reports fnding a generic part that is identical -- NAPA part number 6203-2RSA, or Federal Mogul #203-FF.He reports: "You only need one and it was under $7. The pulley has a snap ring that retains the bearing and it is a friction fit but you don't need a press to remove and install the bearing, just careful use of a large hammer and a flat drift". Keith says this should fit all 3.9 and 4.2 models with a serpentine belt. The original bearing that comes on the Discovery 94/95 is coded: 8203RSR this is a not sealed Russian bearing (in 3 parts). As Keith mentioned above, it can be replaced using the 62032RS - the only difference is 5mm in O.D.D. (62032RS O.D.D = 40mm and the 8203RSR O.D.D=35mm), but from a working standpoint there is no difference at all.

Coolant Expansion Tank Cap:
The genuine article is at least $15. I found a replacement for $7.95 at Atlantic British. I also found a Gates equivalent (Gates part # 31333) listed as a radiator cap at AutoPartsGIANT.com for $6.83.

Fan:
The 9 blade cooling fan for Discoverys is much cheaper than the 11 blade one used on Range Rovers -- the genuine part is about $90 from Rovers North. Replacements are about $65 at aftermarket suppliers like Atlantic British.

Radiator:
The radiator used on tthe automatic Discovery I is a relatively expensive one as radiators go; it is the same as the unit used on the 1995 Range Rover Classic. It is about $700 from Rovers North. Even The Rover Connection charges $650 plus shipping for it. Aftermarket replacements are available at Atlantic British for $640 plus shipping.
The lowest price I have found so far for new Discovery I radiators is at Speedycarparts.com for $607 with free shipping.
The lowest price I have seen for rebuilt, recored Discovery I radiators is at Car Cannibal for $450 exchange.

Radiator Hoses:
The genuine Discovery top radiator hose is about $27-$30. Searching various online sources, I found Atlantic British has an aftermarket version for $15.95, but even cheaper is a generic replacement at partsamerica.com for only $9.59 (specify model year 96 or later to find it). I found the exact same one (Dayco 81191) at AutoPartsGIANT.com for $6.71!

The Discovery I 4.0 Bottom Radiator Hose is one of the most complex I have seen -- it is an expensive 4-way molded piece with 4 outlets that costs over $60 from the dealer. However aftermarket ones are now available; the lowest price I have seen is at Atlantic British which has one for $39.

Thermostat:
The genuine thermostat for the Disco I (ETC4765) is only $15 (eg at The Rover Connection) but even cheaper aftermarket ones can be found. John Benham found that NAPA parts list a thermostat: (Superstat by Stant #530060, 160F) for the Discovery, as well as a number of hoses, belts, and tune up parts. Speedycarparts.com sells a Nippon Thermostat brand unit for $9.51. The lowest price I have seen so far is one from Atlantic British for $8.95. Richard Atkinson notes that aftermarket thermostats in the UK are characterized by their 'fully-open' temperature, while in the US, it's the temp at which they 'start to open'. Thus the closest equivalent US thermostat to the WaxStat 88C would be one that starts opening near (or below) 180F. Remember to instal the thermostat with the bleed hole at the top.

Viscous Fan Clutch:
The genuine Discovery fan clutch ERR3443 is about $250 at Rovers North or The Rover Connection -- the latter source has aftermarket versions for $195. The lowest price I could find was at Atlantic British who have them for $179.95 plus shipping.

Water Pump:
A new Discovery water pump costs about $200 from a wide variety of sources. The Rover Connectionhas them for $180, and Atlantic British has them for $155 plus shipping (aftermarket). If you figure in shipping, a direct fit replacement at Speedycarparts.com for $161.10 with free shipping is probably a better deal.
The lowest prices I have found for Discovery water pumps are for A1 Cardone brand rebuilt pumps for $148 at ExpressAutoparts.com and $139.99 at partsamerica.com (you have to specify 1996 or later as the model year to find it).
Update August 2004: The Rover Connection has just announced that they have water pumps for all RR models for $89!!

Door Controls

Door Handles:
The Discovery door handles are the same as the ones on the Morris Marina and the early ‘80s Lotus Esprit Turbo.

Door Latches:
These have a General Motors (GM) logo on them, but we do not know what GM models use them.

Power Lock Actuators:
The Discovery power door lock actuators cost over $200 each and fail fairly often. Kevin Kelly found that Classic Range Rover ones (very similar) can be replaced with some ingenuity using generic power lock actuators available at most car stereo stores for ~$25. These are also available for under $10 from Parts Express Electronics and More (1-800-338-0531) as item number 330-010.
For those preferring the much greater ease of installation of "Plug and Play" units with the OEM fit and connectors, I have searched around the available sources and found the following lowest cost options:
Front left: $199.95 (Atlantic British)
Front right, rear left & right and tailgate: $116.34 (Speedycarparts.com) (listed under body mechanical & trim)

Tailgate Handle:
I found a replacement for this at Speedycarparts.com for only $41.

Alternator:
Genuine alternators (Magnetti Marelli) cost about $600 from the dealer or genuine parts suppliers such as Rovers North. Typical aftermarket Rover parts houses such as Atlantic British charge about $400. However, rebuilt alternators are now readily available. The Rover Connection sells them for $210 plus shipping, but charges $150 for the core!
The lowest price I have found for rebuilt Discovery alternators is from ExpressAutoparts.com which has them for $178, with a core charge of only $38.

Door Switches (Activating Interior Lights):
Greg Olma reports that BMW and Saab have much better quality ones that will mate up perfectly with the RR or Disco. Saab uses a torx screw instead of the phillips head on the BMW and RR. These are easily available at a junkyard. Offer a buck for a handfull of switches and Steppers and sensors. They don't usually sell these and can't guarantee them so they're cheap (or free)! Junkyards crush a car after the big stuff is gone.

Horn:
Atlantic British has both the high and low note ghorns for $26.95 each. Please email me if you find a lower price.

Starter Motor:
A rebuilt Discovery starter is available from partsamerica.com (also representing Kragen, Checker and Advance Auto Parts) for $174.99 (Beck/Arnley brand) which ships within 24 hours (free shipping) to you or your local store. Speedycarparts.com has brand new (not rebuilt) aftermarket Bosch starters in stock for $218 (free shipping). Lucas starters rebuilt by Orange County Alternator, are sold through AutoPartsGIANT.com for $206.52, with free shipping.
The lowest price I have found for Discovery starter motors (November 2003) is at The Rover Connection which has been advertising a rebuilt starter for $145 plus shipping and a $100 core charge.

Windshield Washer/Wiper System:
I have found the Discovery windshield washer pump for $39.95 at Atlantic British, and a replacement for $15 at ExpressAutoparts.com. (Select brand "Land Rover", and look in the "wiper" category). I also found a Trico brand replacement at partsamerica.com for $14.99. AutoPartsGIANT.com has the Trico unit for $13.58, and an even cheaper unit for $12.35.

For Discovery wiper blades, many buyers are shocked at the tariff at the dealer. Aftermarket suppliers like ATL sell them for about $10, but I found replacement Discovery wiper blades at ExpressAutoparts.com for $5.75 each. They are available for $2.90 at AutoPartsGIANT.com, which also sells refills only for as low as $2.04. Amazingly, partsamerica.com stocks the rear wiper blade for only $1.29!!

Complete Engines:
When George Berka got his Classic Range Rover it had a blown engine. He managed to obtain a used engine from a rollover accident at Alpha Parts Exchange in Hayward, CA for $800. He put it in and was back on the road.

Camshafts & Rocker Assemblies:
Speedycarparts.com lists a huge array of Discovery engine parts including US made camshafts for $242 each with free shipping. A complete camshaft bearing set is $92 from the same supplier. (partsamerica.com has them even cheaper for only $72!). Speedycarparts.com has cam followers for $11 each and rocker arms for $7. The genuine rocker shaft is $189 from Rovers North; Speedycarparts.com lists a replacement for $78 with free shipping.

Engine Mounts:
Discovery engine mounts are common failure items; they are available from Speedycarparts.com for $26 each.

Gaskets:
Import Parts Bin lists individual Discovery head gaskets for only $10; they also have comprehensive head gasket kits for $101.90. The intake manifold valley gasket is only $11.45 from the same source.

Piston Rings:
These are $29 for each piston from Rovers North (ie $232 for a complete set) and $24.95 from Atlantic British. Speedycarparts.com stocks complete piston ring sets for $127 (ie $16 per piston).

Timing Chain:
The genuine timing chain costs about $80 from mail order houses such as Rovers North; Atlantic British lists one for $49.95. Speedycarparts.com has a Discovery timing chain for $36. The timing cover gasket needed if you are doing this job is $8.75 from the same supplier.

Exhaust System

Catalytic Converters:
The prices for genuine parts are truly staggering. The one piece front Y-pipe and catalytic convertors costs about $1500 from the dealer. Atlantic British sells a replacement for this unit for $699.95. The Rover Connection sells a replacement for $499 plus shipping -- admittedly this is a bulky item and in both cases the final cost will be significantly more. There is also a $250 core charge!!
By far the lowest price I have seen forthe Discovery Y pipe and catalytic converters is at Speedycarparts.com for $489.63 (with free shipping, a not inconsiderable factor for such an extremely large and bulky item -- and no question of a core charge!).

Mufflers:
The mail order houses seem to advocate switching to much more expensive stainless steel mufflers and exhaust systems, but I have had good luck with the genuine steel ones and aftermarket equivalents, which are much cheaper. The following are the best deals I have been able to find on aftermarket Discovery mufflers; please email me if you find better ones.
Center Muffler $122 at Speedycarparts.com. They also have a modular system by Bosal that replaces the OEM center and rear muffler and piping with 3 pieces.
Rear Muffler $104 with free shipping from Speedycarparts.com

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Return to Practical Discovery Information

The lowest price I have seen recently (October 03) is $8.95 for an aftermarket filter at Atlantic British.

Fuel Filter:
The Discovery fuel filter costs about $30 at the dealer; The Rover Connection sells it for $28.
I found the FRAM part number for the Discovery Fuel Filter is G3727, and the AC Delco part number is GF481. It is available at ExpressAutoparts.com for $13.69. AutoPartsGIANT.com lists the FRAM part for $14.13, and a Bosch equivalent (#71064) for $12.15. Partsamerica.com lists the Fram filter for $11.99.

Oil Filter:
The Rover V8 engine is known for losing the prime on the oil pump, so it is important to get a filter that incorporates an anti-drainback valve. Kevin Kelly and I always use genuine filters for safety (they cost about $8-10). If you wish to try the K&N re-usable filter system, the K&N part for the Dioscovery is HP-2004. The genuine filters are apparently made by Wix (Wix filters are often sold as NAPA "Gold" parts). ExpressAutoparts.com gives the Wix part number as 51068, available through them at $5.94 each. The FRAM filter listed for the 3.5 and 3.9 engines is the PH16, with the TG 16 and PG 16 also approved. partsamerica.com sells the FRAM PH16 for $4.45. The TG16 is listed at AutoPartsGIANT.com for $6.76; they also list a Bosch equivalent (#72198) for $4.55. The same part is listed at Speedycarparts.com for $4.51.
The lowest price I have seen is for a Pennzoil replacement (part #PZ34) for $3.49 at partsamerica.com .

Transmission Filter:
The ZF automatic transmission shares at least some service parts with some Jaguar and BMW models, and aftermarket Rover parts houses sell a common filter kit including gasket and O-rings for about $60. Several years ago, Scott found the ZF tranny filter could be ordered at NAPA, part no. 0440282 $37.16 (pan gasket and 2 O-rings for tranny filter included). Dave Brown found the NAPA part had to be ordered, and it was $34. He discovered that BAP auto parts had a Bryco # 31844 for $24.99 that works. The box also had the number RTC-4653 on it. Bill Leacock used a Proformance #FK279 for $16 including tax from Advance Auto Parts (now available through partsamerica.com -- "shop by category -- replacement parts")..
More recently, prices have gone up due to the dollar's decline, but I found AutoPartsGIANT.com still lists a "filter only" for $3.41, a filter and gasket kit for $6.31 and the transmission in-line filter kit for $19.95. I have not tried these parts so am not sure of their fitness.
The lowest price I have found for what I can recognize as the complete Discovery transmission filter kit with pan gasket and O-rings is $15.99 at partsamerica.com -- "shop by category -- replacement parts").

Fuel Filler Cap:
Stant part number 10819 is listed as a replacement for the Discovery fuel cap. This is available from auto for $6.46. An alternative from the same source is a Gates 31612 cap for $5.47. For advanced evap models (1997 and up) they specify the Gates 31615 for $7.42. They also make lockable versions for all models. .

Fuel Filter:
The Discovery fuel filter costs about $30 at the dealer; The Rover Connection sells it for $28.
I found the FRAM part number for the Discovery Fuel Filter is G3727, and the AC Delco part number is GF481, available at ExpressAutoparts.com for $13.69. AutoPartsGIANT.com lists the FRAM part for $14.13, and a Bosch equivalent (#71064) for $12.15. Partsamerica.com lists the Fram filter for $11.99.

Fuel Pressure Regulator:
The lowest price I have seen for an aftermarket version of the Discovery fuel pressure regulator is $115 plus shipping at Atlantic British.

Direct Fit Replacements:
At about 100,000 miles the Discovery fuel pump is nearing the end of its useful life. Many people have tried substitute parts for this due to the high cost of the genuine pump. The genuine pump and the direct fit aftermarket replacements are mounted in a frame that is designed to collapse and allow the pump to keep operating when the fuel tank is deformed (eg by getting hit on a rock). For fuel injected Discoverys up to 1996, the genuine pump is part #ESR3926, an aftermarket version of which can be had from Speedycarparts.com for $232.20 with free shipping (it is a bulky item) or Atlantic British for $199.95 plus shipping. For later models, an advanced evaps version was fitted (WFX101020) which is $279.95 at Atlantic British, $279 with free shipping at Speedycarparts.com and $243 plus shipping at The Rover Connection.

Generic Substitutes for Inside of Pump Only:(Following material derived from Range Rover Classic owners -- Disco is similar).
The generic substitutes described below replace only the inside of the pump -- the actual motor and pumping mechanism, and require some fitting and rewiring work.The following information applies to both early and late model Disco Is, which use the same pump motor. If you want a really cheap solution to your fuel pump woes, try rebuilding it yourself -- for about $2.50 -- using the step by step instructions on our Fuel Pump Access, Replacement and Rebuild page).

Alan DuBoff called around and confirmed that the genuine fuel pump (well over $300) includes the entire assembly, plugging right into the gas tank. For under half this price you can get a Carter unit, part number P74006, available at NAPA stores for $75 to replace the inside of the pump (wiring has to be modified, plug from existing pump can be used). Shaun Carrigan says RR/LR enthusiast Jackie Bookout of Athens, TN used this pump, which worked great on his 1988 Discovery. According to Jackie, the flow rate and mounting are identical with OEM; he confirms that only the wiring needed modifying. He says: "Use your plug off your existing fuel pump. Cut the wires. Slide neoprene shrink sleeves over the wires. Solder the joints, slide the sleeves over the bare connections. Use a match or lighter to shrink fit the sleeves over the naked wire. (I would advise using a heat gun or hair dryer here instead of an open flame!! -- JB). Reinstall and you're ready to go." Michael Ziebel also did the fuel pump conversion using this part and the information from this site, and found the list price was $142 and dealer cost is $87. "Everything went okay, except it would have been nice if there was a fuel access door on the RRs' that would allow you to get to the fuel pump." Kevin replaced the pump and regulator for a total of $67 using parts from AutoZone (Same part number P74006). He advises, "Just remember to tie down the wires, and not leave them on the exhaust pipe like I did. That way you only replace it once!!!!"

Blair Gillespie repaired his fuel pump with a Master E3240 pump for $85 and a Master FS2 fuel screen for $10. I found this pump at partsamerica.com for $69.99 (enter part number E3240 in the search box). Alan also found an Airtex fuel pump, #E3240, about $65, which does not include the associated hardware. Greg Olma found the same universal pump for only $47 at Auto Zone!!

Note: The Carter, Master and Airtex parts above are just the pump and do not include the hardware that go with it. In the Haynes shop manual there is a picture of the pump assembly; with the aftermarket parts you basically get the aluminum/steel tube which is the actual fuel pump. If you buy the above pumps you will have to use the old strainer and wiring harness.The OEM and dealer part, on the other hand, include the entire part, and plug right into the gas tank.

Borg Warner Fuel Pumps used on GM Vehicles: Pumps made for certain GM cars seem to fit the 87-90 RR, but I have received mixed reports on them, as follows:

Campfred wrote: GM part No. 462-23 is identical to the fuel pump for a 1988 RR. Charles Irvin was told that any pump from a Chevy Cavalier will work, because the dimensions are the same. A 1989 Cadillac Seville is also the same. Charles bought the following parts:
fuel pump: Borg Warner model P42
fuel strainer: Borg Warner model F5
Total cost with tax: $88.59. He had to modify the the connectors, because the sizes were opposite that which the truck came with. This was no problem with his connector kit and crimper.

John Spencer, however, bought and installed a Borg Warner P42, but found the truck had a hard time starting with it. He checked the Land Rover service manual, which said you need 37 lbs of fuel pressure when cranking; the P42 only gave 22 lbs. John then checked into the Airtex #E3240, calling their tech line, and found the specs on this pump do fit the bill. The Airtex operates at 50 to 70 Lbs. He installed one and the truck started quickly.

Alan Richer resolved this controversy when he talked with a Borg Warner engineer and found that the P42 only develops 37 psi max (at zero flow) so is not really sufficient for Discoverys. He recommended the BW P39 which has approximately the same form factor but develops 75 psi. The only problem he had was that the one he got (a generic variant of the P39) had a connector on the top of the pump to attach the wires - rather than the spade lugs of the other pumps. Connecting it was no issue - getting it in the tank was. He ended up inserting the pump into the tank with the plug disconnected, then plugging it in with a pair of needlenose pliers when inserted. Alan reports that once in it was as happy as a clam, though - works great.

R.J. Galati also used the Borg Warner P39, purchased at PepBoys for 70 bucks (including tax). He says it is listed as a Chevy part on their system and has metal impellor blades versus plastic found on the original. The only real adjustment was in the electrical - Positive and Negative contacts are reversed in blade size requiring me to use the wiring included in the Borg Warner kit. Anyway, the pump was inserted into the existing Sender/Bucket unit and reinstalled. The Rover runs better than before - more umph! His procedure on his 94 RR is pictured on our Fuel Pump Access, Replacement and Rebuild page.

Ron Beckett reports that Australian, New Zealand and other owners who have access to the Holden (the GM brand down under), the fuel pump from a Holden Commodore VN-VP model is almost identical to the Rangie part, even down to the flexible filter. It fitted the bracketry and that odd little box thing on the output side perfectly. As with others mentioned above, what is different is that the Holden part uses a connector plug so one has to solder the wiring to the pins.

Fuel Pump Seal:
This seal between the fuel pump and the tank should be replaced when you replace the Discovery fuel pump. I have seen it priced anywhere up to $12; Speedycarparts.com has an aftermarket replacement for $3.68.

Inertia Switch (Fuel Cutoff):
I found a replacement for the Discovery fuel cutoff inertia switch at ExpressAutoparts.com for $57.79.

Air Flow Meter / Mass Air Flow Sensor (MAF Sensor):
This $700 component is the most vital part of the Discovery fuel injection system as it measures the volume of air flowing into the engine to determine how much fuel to inject. One symptom of its malfunction is an overly rich mixture causing low gas mileage. Genuine part number is ERR5198. I found it at Atlantic British for $659.95. The lowest price I have seen for an aftermarket replacement was at Speedycarparts.com who have them in stock for $582 (with free shipping).

Computer Code Readout Tool:
An aftermarket Computer Readout Tool to access the EFI fault codes on models without the code window is available for $249 plus $8 shipping from John Grable at CarComp Inc, (812) 876 8081.

ECUs:
Car Electronic Services rebuilds Discovery ECUs and is a useful source of failure symptom info as well.

EFI Parts, Rebuilt:
Richard Keys of ATP Electronic Developments Ltd reports having a huge range of remanufactured electronic fuel injection parts available for Discoverys.

Engine Management Computers:
Dave Brown has found several brands of aftermarket engine management computers, including Haltech, Motec, Electromotive, Fel-ro, Accel, and SDS. They are priced from just over $1000 US to over $5000 US, and vary from only fuel management, to complete engine management with control of ignition timing, spark duration, etc. They replace the factory ECU and come complete with a wiring harness. For more details, see Repair and Upgrade Operations.

Fuel Injectors:
Bosch replacements for Discovery fuel injectors are available from Atlantic British for $99.
The lowest price I was able to find on a recent search (July 2005) was $43.25 for remanufactured units at AutoPartsGIANT.com. However I also found that Five 0 Fuel Injector Specialists has brand new warrantied OEM Disco Bosch injectors for $280 per set of 8, equivalent to $35 each! At these prices they do not sell them individually, just in sets. David Giller reports he got a set from them and they arrived in two days -- installing them completely cured his 1998 4.6 hard starting problem.

Idle Air Bypass Valve:
The genuine Discovery Idle Air Bypass valve (now fetching rather heady prices as the dollar has declined in value) came in two different designs. The one for the 94 and 95 models (ERR5299) is now available in aftermarket form for $169.95 plus shipping at Atlantic British. The Rover Connection advertizes this model for $110. The later models with the 4.0 engine used the ERR4352 which is $225 from The Rover Connection or $169.95 from Atlantic British.

If you are interested in experimenting a bit, cheaper alternatives can be tried, at considerably lower cost (The following information is based on the Range Rover Classic which should be the same as the Disco models up through 1995. Please email me if you have additional information on generic substitutes for the Discovery).

Salvador, of Baja Rovers, Mexico, found that as we suspected the the idle air bypass valve/stepper motor is indeed a GM part #25527077. He found the Napa part number is 2-1738. Phil Tetzlaff reports finding this part at his Boulder Colorado NAPA store, but later exchanged it for one manufactured by AC Delco, part number 217347. It appeared to be of higher quality (in casting density and spring strength) than the Napa brand part, and indeed appeared to be exactly the same as the Land Rover part. The final kicker was that while the "genuine" Land Rover part is well over $150, the Napa part cost was $51.99, and the AC Delco only $38.51!" (However, prices have gone up in recent years due to te fall in the dollar). Greg Olma suggests “Go to a junkyard and take your pick from GM 4 and 6cyl. I use PB'laster to clean em.”

I have recently done more research into this mysterious part. Searching the NAPA parts directory, I did not find this genuine AC-Delco part, but they had an equivalent off-brand "Mileage Plus Fuel Idle Air Control Valve" part number MPF31738 for $35.99 at Napaonline.com. They had an alternative matching Echlin part number CRB21738 for $52.99 (a better known brand). I also discovered that the GM Part number 25527077 is the AC-Delco part number 217-437. Various internet GM parts sources sell it for around $43-$50. The lowest price I have ever found was at an internet store called AC-Direct for $31.99!

My personal suggestion is to order the "genuine" AC-Delco part at partsamerica.com for $41.99 (Just do a search for the AC-Delco part number "217-437" on their site). That way, if by any chance it turns out to be incompatible you can conveniently return it to any Kragen, Schucks, Advance Auto Parts, or CSK. If you find any more out about the Idle Air Bypass valve and its sources, please email me!

For the later models with the 4.0 engine, see the Range Rover 4.0 generic parts sources page for information. I did find that AutoPartsGIANT.com lists a KEM part #150-817 for this, but no price was listed when I last checked.

Oxygen Sensors:
Discovery oxygen sensors with the OEM style plug are always expensive even when you use aftermarket versions. The alternative is to use generic replacement sensors that either have no plug or a different one; you just re-use your existing connector and solder the new wires on to the old connector or leads. The following are the lowest prices I have been able to find for both OEM style and generic oxygen sensors that work on the different Discovery models.

94-95 models (3.9 engine): ERR6729 (2 required). I found aftermarket replacements with the OEM-style connector at Atlantic British for $159.95, and at The Rover Connection for $130. Automedicsupply.com has them for $94.99 plus shipping. Will Tillery found another source for the OEM-style sensors which he uses them in his own shop, and is now making them available to fellow Discovery enthusiasts for $95 each, with free shipping. Will has kindly offered to donate a portion of the sales to customers who come to him from this site. So, Email Will for more information. Automedicsupply.com also sells the generic style of sensor that needs rewiring for $74.99 plus shipping.
The lowest price I have seen for for a generic oxygen sensor for the Discovery 3.9 (re-use old connector) is for a Bosch part# 13021 listed at Speedycarparts.com for $56.93 with free shipping (do a part number search for 13021).

96-99 models (4.0 engine): ERR1834 (4 required). I found aftermarket Discovery oxygen sensors with the OEM-style connector for $149.95 plus shipping at Atlantic British, $130 plus shipping at The Rover Connection, $126.32 with free shipping at ExpressAutoparts.com. and $114.95 at automedicsupply.com.
The lowest price I have seen for a universal O2 sensor for the Discovery 4.0 is listed at ExpressAutoparts.com for $46.00 (re-use old connector).

The following information is provided from Range Rover Classic owners who some years ago pioneered the use of the generic sensors and rewired them to work with the OEM connectors. The prices are now well out of date but the information on rewiring is useful, and the part numbers should be valid for Discoverys with the 3.9 engine (94 and 95 models).

John Benham replaced the O2 sensors on his 89RR with Nissan part number 22690-88G01. He found it identical to the Rover's except the plug is different. He cut off and used the original Rover plug and soldered the red, white, and black wires accordingly. The only problem was the wires appeared to be stainless steel and he had to use a lot of heat for the solder to flow. He used shrink wrap to insulate and cover the solder joints. Kelly Minnick also tried this solution using the same part number; he got his O2 sensors from http://www.nissanautoparts.com (800-725-7911 -- you have to call or email them for a price quote). Kelly's cost was $60.56 each or $128.62 for 2 including shipping. The cables were 69" long, compared with 16.5" on the stock unit, so had to be cut. He reports that using acid flux on the wires (the type prescribed for copper pipes), then scrubbing with dish soap/baking soda, considerably helps the soldering when attaching the wires to the Rover connector. John Wessels feels a very good crimp connection would be a fine alternative to soldering. Kevin Kelly has never had good luck soldering stainless steel wire (attempts at stove repairs) so called around and found some Land Rover O2 sensors (with the Land Rover plugs so he didn't have to solder) for about $40 more than the generic ones. James Howard found that the Bosch ones he got from NAPA for $69.95 with a 13021 part number had "NTK" stamped on them. According to one source, NTK Ceramics are the only company that makes O2 sensors in the size Rover and Nissan use, so get whatever are the cheapest ones you find! Rob Kerner and I found the above oxygen sensors are available from The Parts Bin (otherwise known as the Import Parts Bin or now (2003) Speedycarparts.com) as follows: Nissan Part Number 22690-88G01 (Oxygen Sensor w/ connector -- as used by John Benham and Kelly Minnick) or 24005 NTK Oxygen Sensor by NGK $63.93. Nissan Part Number 22690-61A00: Oxygen Sensor with plug: equiv Bosch 13021 as used by James Howard: Speedycarparts.com price $56.93. This part appears to have shorter leads too so does not need to be shortened. (A part number search for "13021" on Speedycarparts.com finds it).

Distributor Assembly (Disco 3.9 1994-5):
The Discovery distributor is an expensive part -- Atlantic British has them for $740. Speedycarparts.com has them for slightly less -- $701 with free shipping. Interestingly, The Rover Connection lists the genuine part for only $575!

Distributor Baseplate and Pickup Coil (1994-5):
The Discovery distributor uses an electronic pickup coil instead of the old-fashioned mechanical contacts. The best deal I have seen on aftermarket versions of this unit is at Speedycarparts.com who offer it for $105.78 with free shipping.

Distributor Cap (1994-5):
The genuine Discovery distributor cap can be ordered from Atlantic British for $40 and the rotor for $35. John Benham wrote that NAPA carries a suitable replacement for the distributor cap and rotor - EP-78 and EP-72 respectively. Aftermarket caps can be found for around $27 at mail order suppliers. ExpressAutoparts.com has Beck/Arnley equivalents for $16.76.
The lowest price I have seen for a Discovery distributor cap is for the Beck Arnley replacement from AutoPartsGIANT.com for $13.50; they also list several other alternatives.

Ignition Amplifier Module (1994-5):
The Discovery ignition amplifier module is a common cause of misfiring and ignition woes, and has traditionally been expensive to replace. Rovers North now has the 1987-92 2-pin version for $135, and Atlantic British for $130 plus shipping.
The lowest price I have seen (if you count shipping costs) is at Speedycarparts.com for $133 with free shipping.

Ignition Coil (1994-5):
The genuine Discovery ignition coil costs $67 even from from The Rover Connection, and standard aftermarket replacements are $57.95 from Atlantic British. Partsamerica.com lists a Holley brand coil for $29.99, and AutoPartsGIANT.com has one made by KEM -- listed at $29.02.

Ignition Coil (1996-9):
The four-barreled ignition coil used in the later Discovery models is expensive; about $530 even from mail order souces like Atlantic British. Speedycarparts.com (click on "Rover" parts) has them for $498 with free shipping. Email me if you find a less expensive source!

Ignition Leads (1994-5):
Some years ago, Scott Dickinson found a set of "high quality, guaranteed for life" ignition leads for $30 by ordering them through Pep Boys. Stock number was CH7846, SKU #8384106. Prices have gone up since then due to the dollar's decline but I recently found a set of Bosch ignition leads for the Disco I Discovery for $22 at Speedycarparts.com.
The lowest price I have found for Discovery 3.9 ignition leads is for a set by KEM for $15.79 from AutoPartsGIANT.com; they also list other options such as a Bosch set for $22.66.

In some cases, you might want to get the aftermarket parts because they are better (rather than cheaper) than stock. Larry Michelon found the stock blue leads to be prone to failure; deciding to buy the best wires he could find, he got some Magnecor 8.5mm wires designed for the Rover V8, and found they fit perfectly in the holders -- you can just "roll" them in. "They look pretty cool too".

Ignition Leads (1996-9):
A full set of aftermarket ignition leads cost around $50-60 from any of the sources I have checked. Email me if you find one for less!
I recently found an aftermarket lead set from Nology that claims to boost horsepower. They are stated to have a special built-in capacitor, so energy from the ignition coil to accumulate until the voltage at the spark plug electrodes reaches the ionization point. The entire power of the stored spark is then discharged at once, creating a spark that is said to be 300 times more powerful. The result is said to be faster, more complete combustion, and more horsepower that's 100% Smog Legal. These leads can be found at this link: Land Rover Range Rover V8 95-97 Nology HotWiresFREE ShippingOver 25% Savings

Ignition Key:
Larry Smith was looking for a replacement ignition key without the large plastic head. The local locksmith. did not have the correct "Discovery" all metal blank; however, he cut one using an ILCO X184 B65 blank originally for a GM. Dale Desprey also got a local locksmith to make a spare key for under $5 using an Ilco blank with the numbers V073 on one side and X29 on the other. Dean Sonneborn had a key copy for his 90RR cut from a "ilco RV4 x239" blank. But, he warned, this is a large key blank measuring 3.5 inches long and dangles out of his key holder (but this does make it easy to find in the dark!) Abel Meza adds that the brand
name that he found was TAYLOR X29. His cost was $1.00 for the blank, plus whatever they will charge you to cut it (usually another $2.00 since it's a double cut) instead of $7.95 at the dealer.

Spark Plugs:
Autolite lists their number 66 plugs for the Disco I (1995-6).
The lowest price I have seen for Discovery spark plugs is a Bosch plug for $1.45 each from Speedycarparts.com; they also list a number of alternative options.

Vacuum Advance Unit:
Replacements are available from suppliers such as Atlantic British ($85).

The Discovery Disco I shop manual recommends a number of fluids and sealants that are not commonly available in North America. One such is Hylomar -- comparable to Permatex in the US. Larry Smith found the following convenient source for "Hylomar sealants and other fine automotive/industrial products":
Hy-Seal Trading (Now known as Disco-Tech Industries)
103 Bowser Ave.
North Vancouver, BC V7P 3H1
CANADA
Tel: 604-985-8324
Toll-Free: 1-877-829-1050
Fax: 604-985-8380
.
Stereo System

The factory stereos on Discovery Disco Is up to about 1991 were not really up to the standards expected of a luxury vehicle, and many owners replaced theirs with aftermarket units. One "plug and play" aftermarket stereo system for the Discovery Disco I, including a remote control and burl walnut trim, is sold by Atlantic British. For replacement speakers, Ian Stoba found that any standard 5 1/4 inch speaker will fit nicely in the door cutout.

Shocks:
The OEM Discovery shocks (dampers) cost about $100 each from the dealer. Bilstein shocks (with a lifetime warranty) can be obtained for around $65 each. The Bilstein part numbers are front: B46-0243, and rear: B46-0253. Monroe Gold replacements can be obtained from ExpressAutoparts.com for $69 a pair ($34.50 each). Partsamerica.com sells Monroe SensaTrak 37197 shocks for the front ($37.99) and 37198 for the rear ($37.99).
The lowest price I have seen is for the same Monroe SensaTrak shocks at AutoPartsGIANT.com . for $27.86 each.

Springs:
Genuine replacement coil springs for the Disco II are available from Atlantic British for $97 (front spring) and $167 (rear spring). (They also have a complete kit of 4 ARB heavy duty replacements for $309.95). British Pacific offers an OME light duty replacement for the stock front spring for $64.50 (part # OME776) and a medium duty rear (OME781) for the same price.
The Disco II (1998-2004) had a rear air spring option, and the genuine part usually costs close to $400! British Pacific has replacements for $199 (part # ASRD2). I recently found an independent US manufacturer and supplier for replacements for these parts. Strutmasters makes and sells the complete rear air spring assembly for the Disco II for $179, and what is even more unbelievable, throws in a Lifetime Warranty!!!.

Steering Stabilizer:
The Discovery steering stabilizer (damper) costs about $65 plus shipping at aftermarket suppliers like Atlantic British. A Boge replacement is offered by Speedycarparts.com for $60 with free shipping.

Swivel Pin Housing Plug:
This plug for checking the oil level is notoriously difficult to remove and replace due to the lack of clearance between it and the steering stop bolts. If yours is getting burred from excessive wrenching, John Barge suggests replacing it with any 1/8" BSP plug. Just be gentler with the new one; they don't need to be very tight.

Swivel Pin Lube:
This thick lubricant replaces the standard gear oil in the swivel pin housing, putting an end to leaking. It is available from Land Rover dealers, but I found it can now be ordered from Speedycarparts.com for $11.88 (listed as "Swivel Pin Lube" under "Steering").

Power Steering Box:
New Discovery I steering boxes are about $900. The part that usually fails is the input shaft seal; replacing it can keep you going for several more years. A seal kit for this can be obtained from Speedycarparts.com for $37. Some years ago Eric Burr obtained a remanufactured power steering box in San Diego from Meridian Auto Parts (authorized rebuilder) with upgraded bushings in it for $299. Nowadays, parts sells a rebuilt box for $602, and Atlantic British sells it for $599.99. ExpressAutoparts.com has them for $552, and AutoPartsGIANT.com has them for $486.
The lowest price I have seen recently (November 2003) for rebuilt Discovery 3.9 steering boxes is $350.09 from S peedycarparts.com.
For Discovery 4.0 boxes, James Gardner found he was able to get a rebuilt one through his local dealer (Land Rover Dallas) for $270.69.

Power Steering Pump:
The Discovery power steering pump costs about $560 from mail order suppliers such as Atlantic British. The generic parts suppliers are cheaper; Kragen etc (accessible through Partsamerica.com) have rebuilt units for $334.99; ExpressAutoparts.com has them for $311.83 and AutoPartsGIANT.com for $244 with free shipping.
The lowest price I have seen is $195 (plus shipping and a $100 core charge) for a rebuilt unit from The Rover Connection.

Tie Rod Ends:
Larry Michelon found a tie rod end manufactured by Lemforder (spelt with those 2 dots over the "o") which fits the inner and outer ends. It carries a Land Rover part number RTC 5869. A few years ago Larry bought it from an import car parts shop (BAP/GEON) for $26 and will fit the inner and outer ends. Randall Vancil obtained this part through Worldwide Auto Parts in San Diego (619)283-2381, under part number RTC5869X (same as OEM). It was a special order part but was available in 12 hours thanks to the supplier's local warehouse. The Rover dealer quoted him $52.95 ea for the genuine part. The Lemforder part numbers are M3010-43959 and M3010-50620 respectively (left and right hand threads). I recently found these at Speedycarparts.com for $33-34 (with free shipping if you are getting more than one). Eric Stephens found them for $30-31 plus shipping at auto-parts-oem.com.

Ron Beckett of Australia reported that the tie rod ends on the tie rod and the drag link can be replaced with generic parts (with grease nipples) for about A$12.50 (US$7.50) each. They are right hand thread and the generic part no. was TE195R -- the same part fits his Hillman, Holden and Sunbeam Alpine. The drop arm ball joint is a bigger size, and Ron found one for A$50 (US$30).

The Discovery I used the gear-driven LT230 transfer case with a manual diff lock, carried over from early model (pre 1989) Range Rovers. Remanufactured units are now available from most of the independent Rover parts houses for about $2,000. I have not seen any real bargains on these, but would suggest inquiring at Car Cannibal for their prices on rebuilt and used ones -- their components come fully warrantied and are usually priced far below the others.

The Discovery II uses a quieter variant of the same case, called the LT230Q. Contact Car Cannibal for remanufactured versions of this transfer case with a 12 month unlimited mileage warranty and used ones for a fraction of the price carrying a 6 month warranty.

The ZF transmission used in Discoverys is similar to that used in other European cars such as BMWs and Jaguars. However, Larry Michelon notes that although the ZF transmissions in the BMWs are similar, some of the internal parts are not the same. The ones used in the LR are different and......more expensive! He knows because he has had his rebuilt once. However, service parts for the Discovery transmission seem to be the same as those for Jaguars and possibly others.

Rebuilt and Used Transmissions:
Disco I:
Auto Transmission: ZF 4HP22 hydraulic shift automatic transmissions for the Discovery I are now available rebuilt from most independent Rover parts houses for about $3,500. I recently discovered they are also available from Car Cannibal for only $1,850 with a 1-year unliminted mileage warranty. The ZF transmissions are used in many other vehicles, and I recently found found a very low cost generic source -- Phoenix Remanufactured Transmissions. In November 2004 Dave Foster got one there for his 2001 Classic for $1,050. Phoenix is a major rebuilding and parts house, and all their remanufactured transmissions are dyno tested and warrantied.(Check with them by phone for your exact application). Another option is a used (not rebuilt) tranny -- Car Cannibal has excellent ones for $650. Even these include a 6 month, 8,000 mile warranty!
Manual Transmission: I recently found rebuilt R380 manual transmissions for the Discovery I (March '94 and up) and D-90 for only $1495 at Car Cannibal including a 12 month, unlimited mile warranty! Contact them for prices on used ones and for the LT77S manual transmission used up to March 1994.

Disco II:
The electronically shifted ZF 4HP24 transmission for the Discovery II is still new enough that rebuilt units are hard to come by and very expensive. However I recently found it at Car Cannibal for only $2195, including a 1-year unlimited mile warranty! I also found the 4HP24 at the large transmission rebuilder, Phoenix Remanufactured Transmissions, for only $1,250!! (Check with them for your exact application). Another option is a used (not rebuilt) tranny -- Car Cannibal has good used units for $850, including a 6 month warranty.

Transmission Filter Kits:
I have used generic parts for the transmission filter kit (which has to be changed every 30,000 miles); this seems to be common to all. See the section on the transmission filter, above, to find inexpensive sources.

Transmission Overhaul Kits:
For the more adventurous, a complete Discovery transmission overhaul kit is available from ExpressAutoparts.com for only $38, containing Gaskets; Seals; O'Rings; & Sealing Rings. A Master Repair Kit for $72 contains these items plus Friction and Steel Clutch Plates, Oil Filter, Vacuum Modulator, Front Pump Bushing, and External Housing Bushing.

Wheel Bearings

Like many other parts, Discovery wheel bearings are sold as expensive packages and the impression is given that they are unique. However, Tom Joyner reported finding wheel bearings, Timken set#37 at the local parts store for $10 each. Keith Armstrong found this bearing set is made up of Timken #LM603049 and LM603011 (currently selling for $10.76 and $5.11 respectively at his local bearing house). Land Rover-packaged Timkens are about $30 or so per hub.
The lowest price I have found for Discovery wheel bearings is at partsamerica.com which has several different options for bearing sets for as little as $9 per hub -- click on "shop by category -- replacement parts".

Some other Disco I replacement parts (mainly bearings and seals) can be found at this link.

Dealer prices for parts are generally on the high side, but if you regularly buy parts from your local dealer you will find he is willing to give you a discount. In any case, you should be willing to pay a bit extra for the convenience of local shopping and the ability to get even obscure parts immediately without waiting for shipping or back ordering. And, don't forget you avoid shipping charges which can be substantial on heavy or bulky items that seem like bargains from mail order merchants. (On several recent major parts purchases I have found the dealer was able to beat the mail order price).You also find such conveniences as spark plugs already correctly gapped, etc. I have had to return some parts to mail order aftermarket suppliers, and find it much more likely that a part obtained from a dealer is the correct one.

This is a controversy which will probably never have a definitive conclusion. Even the terms are confusing; for example, there are some parts on the market which are made by the same manufacturer as the genuine article, but without the "Genuine Parts" seal of approval.

In general, aftermarket parts obtained from independent suppliers cost less than genuine parts obtained through a Land Rover dealer. However, in my experience not all aftermarket parts are satisfactory in terms of quality, fit and function. Once, when trying to fix a vibration in the steering, I obtained an aftermarket steering stabilizer advertized as being made by the OEM manufacturer of Discovery shocks and stabilizers (Armstrong/Woodhead), but found the unit exacerbated the vibration so much that I had to send it back. (In the event, the problem turned out to be a ball joint rather than the steering stabilizer). The original steering stabilizer worked much better and is still on the vehicle after 150,000 miles and many dents from rocks! Rich Lee much prefers genuine brake pads on his Disco, even though they cost more and wear themselves and the rotors faster. They grab better, fade less and squeal less than aftermarket alternatives. It pays to be especially careful in the case of components which affect the safety of vehicle operation. Kevin Kelly agrees about the brake pads, and finds the quality of genuine belts and hoses to be noticeably better than aftermarket substitutes.

There are certainly cases in which the price for certain "genuine" items is extreme, such as the $4 charged for the oil drain plug washer commonly sold with the oil filter, or $45 for an 18 inch length of small diameter rubber hose for the inlet manifold heater. Spark plugs and other generic items can be obtained much less expensively through mail order suppliers or local auto parts shops specializing in parts for "foreign" makes. In some cases, however, the price differential between genuine and aftermarket parts can be surprisingly little. Some of the mail order parts suppliers provide a mix of genuine and aftermarket parts, depending on what they feel is the best deal for the customer.

Links to Discovery Parts Sources
(Buying from the sources listed in bold will save you money while helping to support this website)