Land Rover Range Rover Sport Years to AvoidThe weakest years — and the one you should buy instead
After reviewing every Land Rover Range Rover Sport we've analyzed (20 years), these are the 20 weakest. Each one has either an absolute low reliability score, chronic repair issues, or unusually high ownership costs relative to other Range Rover Sport years.
Proceed with caution
2007 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
The 2007 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is a high-risk proposition for any buyer seeking a reliable used luxury SUV. While offering undeniable prestige and off-road prowess, its complex systems are prone to frequent and costly failures, making it a financial black hole for the unprepared owner.
Why this year scores low
Components like the air compressor, air springs/struts, and height sensors frequently fail, leading to sagging, uneven ride height, and a complete loss of suspension function. These failures are common due to component wear and exposure to elements.
Owners report a litany of electrical gremlins including battery drain issues, faulty body control modules, instrument cluster failures, non-functioning accessories (windows, sunroof, infotainment), and numerous sensor-related warnings. Diagnosing these can be complex and expensive.
Particularly on the V8 engines, plastic coolant crossover pipes, water pumps, and thermostat housings are prone to cracking and leaking. Neglecting these leaks can lead to overheating and catastrophic engine damage.
Proceed with caution
2006 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
The 2006 Land Rover Range Rover Sport represents a high-risk proposition in the used market, plagued by complex systems prone to costly failures. While offering an undeniable presence and capability, prospective owners should anticipate significant maintenance demands and budget for major repairs; this is not a vehicle for the financially faint of heart.
Why this year scores low
The Electronic Air Suspension (EAS) is a notorious weak point. Components like the air compressor, air springs (bags), height sensors, and valve blocks are highly prone to failure, leading to a 'red light' warning and the vehicle 'kneeling' on one or more corners. Failures often stem from compressor wear, drying out of air springs, or sensor faults.
A myriad of electrical gremlins afflict these vehicles. Issues range from non-functioning infotainment systems, faulty parking sensors, intermittent window/lock operation, instrument cluster malfunctions, to battery drain problems caused by various modules failing to 'sleep'. The complexity makes diagnosis difficult and expensive.
Both the naturally aspirated and supercharged V8 engines are susceptible to cooling system issues, including failing water pumps, leaking coolant hoses (especially plastic pipes behind the supercharger), and radiator failures. Supercharged models can also suffer from timing chain guide wear, leading to expensive repairs if neglected.
Proceed with caution
2008 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
While its luxurious appeal and robust off-road capabilities are undeniable, the 2008 Range Rover Sport is a high-maintenance vehicle that demands significant financial commitment beyond its initial purchase price. Expect frequent, costly repairs, particularly concerning its complex air suspension and myriad electrical systems, making it a notably high-risk proposition for most buyers seeking trouble-free ownership.
Why this year scores low
The air compressor frequently fails, leading to the vehicle sagging or entering 'limp mode.' Air struts/bags develop leaks, and valve blocks can stick or fail, all resulting in significant repair costs and loss of ride height.
Faults are numerous, including the electronic parking brake (EPB) module, various sensor failures (e.g., parking, ABS), navigation/infotainment system glitches, persistent battery drains, and wiring harness issues causing sporadic malfunctions.
Plastic components in the cooling system, such as coolant reservoir tanks and connecting pipes (especially the 'valley hose' on supercharged models), become brittle and crack, leading to significant and often sudden coolant leaks. Power steering pump and reservoir leaks are also common.
Proceed with caution
2009 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
The 2009 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is a beautiful, capable luxury SUV, but it carries a significant financial burden in terms of reliability. Buyers should be acutely aware of its propensity for expensive failures, especially with the air suspension and complex electrical systems, making it a high-risk purchase for anyone without deep pockets and a high tolerance for downtime.
Why this year scores low
The adaptive air suspension system is a notorious weak point. Components like the air compressor, air springs/struts, and valve blocks are prone to failure, leading to a sagging vehicle, 'Suspension Fault' messages, and an uncomfortable ride.
This vehicle is plagued with electrical gremlins. Issues range from parasitic battery drains, dashboard warning lights (ABS, SRS, HDC, TPMS), malfunctioning sensors, faulty window regulators, and unreliable infotainment/navigation systems. Wiring harness corrosion can also contribute.
Plastic components within the cooling system, such as the thermostat housing, expansion tanks, and various hoses, become brittle and crack with age, leading to coolant leaks. Additionally, power steering pump leaks and EGR valve failures are common.
Proceed with caution
2011 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
While offering undeniable luxury and impressive off-road prowess, the 2011 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is a high-risk proposition for used car buyers due to widespread and costly mechanical and electrical failures. Prospective owners must proceed with extreme caution, a substantial repair budget, and a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection to avoid financial ruin.
Why this year scores low
The complex air suspension is a major Achilles' heel. Components like the air compressor, valve blocks, height sensors, and individual air struts/bags are prone to failure, leading to a sagging vehicle, uneven ride height, or complete inability to raise. Repairs are mandatory for safe operation.
The 5.0L Supercharged V8 engine is notorious for premature wear of the timing chain guides and tensioners. This leads to metallic rattling noises, especially on cold starts, and if neglected, can result in catastrophic engine failure requiring a complete engine replacement or costly rebuild.
From persistent battery drain issues caused by various parasitic draws to failing parking brake modules, infotainment glitches (touchscreen, navigation), and sensor failures (ABS, wheel speed, adaptive cruise control), the electrical system is a constant source of frustration and expensive diagnosis/repair.
Proceed with caution
2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
While the 2012 Range Rover Sport offers undeniable luxury and commanding presence, it carries a significant reliability burden that demands extensive financial commitment. Prospective owners must be prepared for a frequent and costly relationship with repair shops, as sophisticated systems often fail prematurely. This vehicle is a high-stakes gamble on luxury, not a sensible long-term investment.
Why this year scores low
The complex air suspension is notorious for issues, including compressor failure, leaking air springs/struts, and faulty height sensors. This often leads to the vehicle 'kneeling' or being stuck at one height.
Range Rovers are plagued by electrical gremlins. Issues range from infotainment system freezes and non-functional touchscreens to parasitic battery drains, faulty parking sensors, window motors, and module failures (BCM, suspension control module).
Both 5.0L NA and Supercharged V8 engines are known for coolant leaks, particularly from plastic crossover pipes behind the engine, water pumps, thermostat housings, and various hoses. Overheating can lead to severe engine damage.
Proceed with caution
2010 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
The 2010 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is a vehicle of undeniable luxury and capability, but it demands a substantial financial commitment beyond its purchase price. Expect frequent, expensive repairs for critical systems, making it a high-risk proposition for most buyers who prioritize peace of mind and predictable running costs.
Why this year scores low
The air suspension compressor, air springs, and various sensors are prone to failure, leading to a collapsed suspension, 'suspension fault' warnings, and a harsh ride. Compressor failure is common, as are leaks in the air struts.
Numerous electrical gremlins plague these vehicles, from battery drain issues and instrument cluster malfunctions to faulty ABS/TPMS sensors, infotainment system glitches, and parking brake module failures. Wiring harnesses can also degrade.
The 5.0L V8, especially in early production (2010-2012), is known for timing chain guide wear, leading to a rattling noise and potentially catastrophic engine damage if unaddressed. Oil leaks from valve covers and oil coolers are also frequent.
Proceed with caution
2013 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
The 2013 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is a prestige vehicle offering impressive luxury and off-road prowess, but it comes with a significantly elevated risk of costly and frequent repairs. This is a high-maintenance machine that demands deep pockets and a strong stomach for shop visits, making it a risky proposition for anyone prioritizing long-term reliability or a predictable ownership experience.
Why this year scores low
Common failures include air springs (leaks), compressor degradation, valve block malfunctions, and height sensor failures, leading to uneven stance or complete inability to raise/lower. These issues severely impact ride quality and safety.
Widespread issues encompass infotainment system glitches, persistent dashboard warning lights (ABS, SRS, engine), parasitic battery drains, failing sensors (e.g., parking, tire pressure, oxygen), and wiring harness corrosion. These often lead to diagnostic nightmares and intermittent problems.
The Supercharged 5.0L V8 is known for timing chain tensioner and guide failures, leading to catastrophic engine damage if not addressed. Other common issues include oil leaks (valve covers, oil filter housing), water pump failures, and coolant leaks from plastic components.
Proceed with caution
2019 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
The 2019 Range Rover Sport delivers undeniable luxury and capability, but its long-term reliability profile demands significant caution and a robust budget. Expect a higher-than-average frequency of repairs, particularly with its complex electrical systems and sophisticated air suspension, making it a potentially expensive ownership proposition.
Why this year scores low
Failures of the air compressor, leaking air springs/struts, and height sensors are very common, leading to uneven ride height, warning lights, and a harsh ride. This system is crucial and expensive to repair.
The InControl Touch Pro system is prone to freezing, lagging, or complete failure. Beyond infotainment, various modules (e.g., body control, comfort access) can fail, leading to parasitic battery drains, sensor malfunctions, and intermittent warnings.
Specifically on the 5.0L Supercharged V8, plastic cooling system components (hoses, thermostat housing, water pump) become brittle and fail. Oil cooler housing leaks and valve cover gasket leaks are also prevalent, often requiring extensive labor.
Proceed with caution
2022 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
If you're considering a 2022 Range Rover Sport, understand that you're investing in luxury and capability with a high probability of significant maintenance and repair costs, even on a relatively new vehicle. While offering an opulent experience, its complex systems are prone to issues that can quickly erode the ownership experience if not properly budgeted for.
Why this year scores low
The Pivi Pro infotainment system frequently experiences freezing, slow response, and connectivity issues. Various sensors (parking, blind spot, engine) are also prone to premature failure, leading to dashboard warnings and impaired functionality.
The sophisticated air suspension, while providing excellent ride quality, is a common failure point. Components like air struts, the compressor, and height sensors can fail, leading to uneven ride height, a harsh ride, or complete system collapse. Early leaks are not uncommon.
While less common on a 2022 model, historical trends indicate potential for issues with differential seals, transfer case actuators, and wheel bearings to surface earlier than expected in a high-performance luxury SUV, particularly if regularly driven off-road or hard.
Proceed with caution
2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
The 2014 Range Rover Sport, while offering undeniable luxury and capability, presents a significant reliability gamble for the average buyer. Its stunning presence and performance come with a well-documented propensity for costly and frequent mechanical and electrical failures, making it a challenging vehicle to own outside of a comprehensive warranty. Proceeding without a substantial repair fund and a trusted specialist will lead to significant financial distress.
Why this year scores low
Components like air springs, compressor, valve block, and height sensors are known to fail, leading to uneven ride height, dashboard warnings, and a harsh ride. These failures are common and expensive to diagnose and repair.
Owners frequently report issues with the infotainment system (freezing, glitches), parking sensors, TPMS, battery drains, key fob recognition, and various sensor failures leading to 'check engine' lights or reduced performance modes. Diagnostics are complex.
The 5.0L Supercharged V8 engine can suffer from timing chain guide wear, supercharger isolator coupling failures (causing a rattling noise), and various coolant leaks (e.g., crossover pipe). These are major repairs, often costing thousands.
Proceed with caution
2015 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
The 2015 Range Rover Sport is a masterclass in luxury and capability, but it demands a significant financial commitment beyond its purchase price. While undeniably opulent and capable, this vehicle is prone to complex electrical and air suspension issues, making it a high-risk proposition for those not prepared for substantial and frequent repair bills. Only proceed if you have a robust maintenance budget and a high tolerance for potential downtime.
Why this year scores low
Components like the air compressor, air springs, valve blocks, and ride height sensors are prone to failure. Leaks in air springs lead to sagging, while compressor failure results in 'suspension fault' warnings and inability to adjust ride height. This is a common and expensive repair.
Owners frequently report issues ranging from battery drain, persistent dashboard warning lights, faulty sensors (e.g., parking, TPMS), malfunctioning infotainment screens, and random electronic glitches. These can be difficult and costly to diagnose, sometimes requiring entire module replacements.
Water pump failures (especially on the 3.0L Supercharged V6), thermostat housing leaks, and coolant hose issues are common. This can lead to overheating if not addressed promptly. Additionally, accessory belts and pulleys may require premature replacement.
Proceed with caution
2017 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
The 2017 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is a testament to luxury and capability, yet it's an undeniable gamble when it comes to long-term reliability. Prepare for substantial repair costs, particularly for its complex air suspension and myriad electrical issues, making it a high-risk proposition for most used car buyers.
Why this year scores low
Components such as the air springs, compressor, height sensors, and control valve blocks are prone to failure, leading to uneven ride height, constant compressor cycling, or complete suspension collapse. These failures significantly impact ride quality and safety.
Owners frequently report issues ranging from infotainment system freezes, touch screen unresponsiveness, navigation glitches, battery drain issues, parking sensor failures, and various sensor-related warning lights appearing on the dashboard.
The 3.0L Supercharged V6 and 5.0L Supercharged V8 engines can develop timing chain guide wear, leading to costly repair. The supercharger isolator coupling can also fail, causing a loud 'marbles in a can' noise from the engine bay. Oil leaks from various seals are also common.
Proceed with caution
2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is a stunning luxury SUV, but it carries the brand's persistent reputation for high ownership costs and complex, often problematic, electronic and air suspension systems. While initially impressive, prepare for an elevated risk of unforeseen maintenance and repair expenses, making it a purchase strictly for those with ample financial reserves and a high tolerance for potential downtime.
Why this year scores low
The sophisticated Pivi Pro infotainment system, numerous sensors, and complex modules are prone to glitches, software freezes, and outright failures. This can manifest as blank screens, non-responsive controls, or phantom warnings, often requiring costly dealer diagnostics and software updates or module replacements.
The integrated air suspension system, while providing excellent ride quality, is a common failure point. Issues can range from air compressor failure, leaking air springs/struts, to sensor malfunctions, leading to a 'kneeling' vehicle, uneven ride height, or a complete loss of suspension function. These repairs are invariably expensive.
With advanced mild-hybrid (MHEV) and twin-turbo V8 engines, the integration of complex sensor arrays and control units (ECUs) can lead to intermittent 'check engine' lights or reduced performance. Issues with oxygen sensors, exhaust gas temperature sensors, or even the MHEV's 48V battery system have been observed, requiring specialized diagnostic equipment.
Proceed with caution
2016 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
The 2016 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is a magnificent vehicle for luxury and capability, but it carries a significant reliability risk, primarily from its complex air suspension and notoriously finicky electrical systems. While offering unparalleled comfort and off-road prowess, be prepared for substantial maintenance and repair bills; this is not a 'set-it-and-forget-it' ownership experience.
Why this year scores low
Components like the air compressor, air struts/bags, and height sensors frequently fail, leading to uneven ride height, 'suspension fault' warnings, and a harsh ride. These are critical for the vehicle's unique capabilities.
Known for persistent battery drain issues (often parasitic draws), infotainment system glitches (freezing, slow response, navigation failures), and various sensor/module faults leading to dashboard warnings for parking aids, TPMS, and lighting systems.
Specific to the 3.0L Supercharged V6 and 5.0L Supercharged V8, oil cooler leaks and valve cover gasket leaks are common. The supercharger coupler can also develop a rattling noise, indicating wear and potential for future failure.
Proceed with caution
2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is an undeniably luxurious and capable SUV, but it carries a significant reliability burden that necessitates caution. While the driving experience is sublime, expect frequent electronic gremlins and be prepared for potentially expensive mechanical repairs, particularly with its complex air suspension system, making long-term ownership financially demanding.
Why this year scores low
Components like air struts, compressor, and valve blocks are prone to premature failure, leading to uneven ride height, slow inflation, or complete system collapse. This is a common and expensive repair.
Owners frequently report issues with the Touch Pro Duo screens freezing, becoming unresponsive, or exhibiting glitches. Other electrical faults include parasitic battery drain, sensor failures, and issues with parking assist or camera systems.
Various engine (oil cooler, valve cover) and transmission fluid leaks are not uncommon. These can be slow drips or more significant leaks requiring extensive labor to diagnose and repair.
Proceed with caution
2024 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
The 2024 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is a triumph of luxury and capability, but it arrives with the brand's well-documented reliability baggage. While new models typically benefit from modern engineering, expect a premium ownership experience that inevitably includes higher maintenance and potential for complex, costly repairs down the line, making extended warranty coverage almost essential.
Why this year scores low
Historically, Land Rover models struggle with various electrical gremlins, from minor sensor failures and warning lights to more significant infotainment system freezes, battery drain issues, and inconsistent functionality of advanced driver-assistance systems. These often stem from complex wiring harnesses and software integration.
The sophisticated air suspension, while providing excellent ride comfort and adjustable height, is a known weak point. Components like air struts, compressors, sensors, and air lines are prone to leaks and failures, leading to uneven ride height, reduced comfort, and eventual system malfunction. These repairs are typically very costly.
With high-performance engines across the range, the cooling system and various engine ancillary components (e.g., water pumps, thermostats, supercharger/turbocharger components, oil leaks) can experience premature wear or failure. Overheating or coolant leaks are critical issues that can lead to severe engine damage if not addressed promptly.
Proceed with caution
2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
The 2021 Range Rover Sport is a stunning luxury SUV offering unparalleled comfort and off-road prowess, but it comes with a significant reliability caveat. Owners should brace for frequent, complex, and expensive repairs, particularly concerning its advanced electrical systems and air suspension. This is a vehicle for those who prioritize luxury and capability over predictable, low-cost ownership.
Why this year scores low
The Pivi Pro infotainment system is prone to freezing, lagging, and requiring frequent resets. Beyond that, owners report issues with sensor failures, warning lights, ghost touches on screens, and parasitic battery drain that can leave the vehicle dead.
Compressor failures, leaky air springs/struts, and height sensor malfunctions are common. This can lead to the vehicle sitting unevenly, 'kneeling' overnight, or being completely undriveable. Repairs are specialized and extremely expensive.
While major engine failures are less frequent in a 2021 model, the mild-hybrid (MHEV) system's 48V battery or associated components can fail, leading to propulsion errors. Oil leaks from valve covers or seals are also not uncommon, particularly on the V8 engines.
Proceed with caution
2018 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
While undeniably luxurious and immensely capable both on and off-road, the 2018 Range Rover Sport demands a significant commitment to proactive maintenance and reserves for potential, often costly, repairs. This is a vehicle that rewards diligent ownership with unparalleled comfort and prestige but can quickly punish neglect, making it a purchase for the informed and prepared buyer.
Why this year scores low
The sophisticated air suspension system, while providing a sublime ride, is prone to failures including air spring leaks (often due to dry rot or punctures), compressor unit failure, and height sensor malfunctions leading to uneven ride height or complete system failure.
Known issues range from persistent battery drain (often parasitic), unresponsive or freezing Touch Pro/Touch Pro Duo infotainment screens, faulty parking sensors, backup camera glitches, and various warning lights appearing without clear cause.
Particularly on the 3.0L Supercharged V6 and 5.0L Supercharged V8, oil leaks from the oil cooler housing, valve cover gaskets, or front timing cover are common. These can be messy, difficult to diagnose accurately, and costly to repair due to labor involved in accessing components.
Proceed with caution
2025 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
The 2025 Range Rover Sport enters the market as a luxurious, high-performance SUV with cutting-edge technology, but potential owners should prepare for the brand's historically higher operating costs and the typical uncertainties of a new model year on a complex platform. While offering an exceptional driving experience, it demands a proactive maintenance approach and a robust budget to truly enjoy without financial surprises.
Why this year scores low
Software glitches, sensor malfunctions, and connectivity issues are common across new Land Rover models, affecting everything from the touchscreen Pivi Pro system to driver-assist features. These often require dealer diagnostics and software updates.
The sophisticated air suspension, while providing excellent ride quality, consists of complex components like air springs, compressors, and height sensors that can fail. Leaks or sensor errors can lead to uneven ride height or complete system failure, requiring expensive specialized repairs.
With advanced engines, particularly the mild-hybrid (MHEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants, the complexity of turbos, superchargers, and electric motor components can introduce new failure points. Issues with auxiliary batteries, cooling systems, or charging components can emerge.
