LAND Rover Discovery
Reliability, NHTSA Complaints & Recall History
10 model years analyzed (2017–2026). All data sourced directly from the NHTSA public complaints and recall database — the same data used by federal regulators.
Checking a specific LAND Rover Discovery? Run a VIN check for its exact history.
⭐ NHTSA NCAP Crash Test Ratings
New Car Assessment ProgramNCAP crash tests measure how well a vehicle protects occupants in controlled frontal crash, side crash, and rollover scenarios. Stars are awarded per category (5 = safest). These laboratory results are independent of owner complaints and are performed by NHTSA engineers on new production vehicles.
AI Interpretation
High ConfidenceBelow AverageThe NHTSA complaint data for the Land Rover Discovery (2017–2026) shows a concentration of issues in the electrical system, with 45 complaints, followed by engine and power train concerns. Complaints peaked in 2018 and 2019, while no complaints were recorded for 2017, 2025, or 2026. The vehicle has 28 recalls and 4 crash-related complaints, but the data does not confirm a manufacturing defect.
- Electrical system complaints are the most reported, with 45 complaints.
- Engine and power train each have 19 complaints, tied for second most.
- Complaints are concentrated in model years 2018 (35) and 2019 (34).
- No complaints were reported for 2017, 2025, or 2026 model years.
- Electrical system failures appear to be a recurring theme.
- Engine and power train issues are also frequently reported.
- Visibility/wiper problems are noted in 11 complaints.
Model years 2018 and 2019 show elevated complaints, driven primarily by electrical system, engine, and power train components.
Model years 2017, 2025, and 2026 have zero complaints, which may indicate fewer reported issues, but limited data availability for newer years should be considered.
- Inspect the electrical system, including battery and wiring, for signs of failure.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for engine and power train repairs.
- Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle, focusing on reported components.
🔔 NHTSA Safety Recalls
28 recalls foundSafety recalls are mandatory repair campaigns ordered by NHTSA when a vehicle defect poses an unreasonable risk to safety. Manufacturers are required to fix recalled vehicles free of charge. Always verify open recalls before buying a used car.
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Source: NHTSA Recalls Database. Data covers model years 2017–2026. Always run a VIN-specific check below for the most up-to-date open recall status.
🔧 Most-Reported Problem Areas
Based on component keywords extracted from all 114 NHTSA complaints.
📋 NHTSA Complaint Reports
114 totalThese are consumer-submitted safety complaints filed directly with NHTSA. Each complaint describes a real owner's experience. Complaints flagged as crash-related or fire-related are highlighted.
The failing component is the same as Land Rover Discovery 2017-2020 recall /N221 service action. Complaint is to extend this service action/ recall to later production models of Land Rover Discovery in the years 2021 and 2022. The same issues are occurring as reported with Land Rover discovery 2017-2020. Due to a faulty sealant mechanism, the windshield is leaking water on the inside of vehicle causing visual impairment whilst driving in rain, snow and wet conditions - an unsafe way to drive. The water is also known to leak into electrical components causing cameras to not work, causing steering issues and causing electrical safety warning systems not to function. Land Rover Discovery (specifically 2017–2020 models) has faced issues with water leaking from the windshield, causing potential electrical damage and cabin moisture, as detailed in a Service Action (N221) and a 2020 class-action lawsuit. While often handled as a technical service bulletin (TSB) rather than a safety recall, dealers are instructed to inspect and, if necessary, replace the windshield.Key Details Regarding the Windshield Issues:Affected Vehicles: Primarily 2017-2018 Discovery 5, though reports have continued for 2020 models.Problem: Improper sealing leads to water leaks, causing moisture in the cabin and potential damage to electrical components.Service Action/Recall: Service Action N221 outlines instructions for dealers to test for leaks and replace the windshield if necessary, under certain circumstances.Action Needed: Owners experiencing this issue should contact their local Land Rover dealership for a check, as it may be covered by the manufacturer's warranty or a goodwill repair. However, service dealers who I have called are requiring me to pay $250 for a diagnostic of their own issue. As well as keep the car for several days just to evaluate.
The DC/DC converter had failed after the recent software upgrade by JLR right in the middle of the road. Barely made to their shop. It has been a month since. No updates on the status of the fixing my car. Had call many times, no response. The car is in the JLR diller in Hunt Valley, Maryland.
The contact owns a 2022 Land Rover Discovery. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle jerked, and several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road and turned off. The contact waited before restarting the vehicle; however, after driving for several miles the failure reoccurred. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, the vehicle jerked, and the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal before the vehicle stalled. The message "Emergency Braking Assistance Not Available" was displayed. The contact was able to coast to the side of the road. The contact called for assistance and another driver arrived the scene and followed behind the vehicle back to the residence. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the ground studs were not connected and had failed to function as intended. The vehicle remained at the dealer unrepaired. The contact stated that before the electrical failure, the message "Check Coolant" was displayed. Upon further investigation, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V457000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 76,000.
Car displayed a warning noting of an “an electrical fault” but was still running fine otherwise. Drove straight to service center roughly 5 miles away. About a half a mile away from service center the car experienced a cascading number faults in quick succession. First it was safety systems, then air suspension, followed by transmission and finally steering, which point the car was able to roll and some steering though required significant effort. This occurred during traffic, where luckily i had just gotten off the highway. I was able to coast the car into the middle of a shopping center parking lot where it became immobile. A fortunate timing of intersection traffic lights being green likely helped avoid a collision or hitting a pedestrian as all vehicle systems shut down. Towed vehicle to factory service center. Dealer confirmed a a failed DC-to-DC Converter (48V to 12V in mild hybrid system) led to vehicle shutdown and damaged auxiliary 12V battery. Requires a new DC to DC converter but is on backorder for weeks with no ETA available. Car remains immobile until a new part is received.
I was driving on Ware Rd about 50 MPH on my way home. The vehicle turned off while I was driving and had to turn into a street before the vehicle stopped moving. There were no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms prior to the failure. If I had been on a highway, there would not have been a way for me to get out of dangerous traffic. The dealer checked the vehicle and determined that it had suffered a catatrophic engine failure. They had no explanation on the cause of the problem. My vehicle had just run out of warranty with only 60,000 miles on it.
Windshield crack. No sign of impact or stress. Bottom Driver side start of crack then spread to midline and over to passenger side of windshield. completely unknown as to any cause other than a design or materials defect.
I purchased my 2024 Land Rover Discovery new in March of 2024. In October of 2025, I found a large amount of water leaking through my windshield. Land Rover had my vehicle from October 2025 until April 2026. When it was returned to me it had mold in that had to be remidate3d and now my screen is starting to short. I am concerned of the safety of this vehicle and the amount of water that went into the electrical system.
Windshield was leaking into electrical compartment. Caused $10,000 worth of damage and caused the vehicle to be inoperable and stop while driving.
3rd time the vehicle has experienced a electrical fault and renders the car undrivable and will shut down while driving regardless of where you are. Each time the vehicle has stopped while driving on an interstate.
JLRNA has identified my vehicle as unsafe to drive due to bonding delamination of the front windshield. As a result, the windshield had water egress. The service department has deemed my vehicle unsafe to drive as the windshield may not be properly bonded to the vehicle body, allowing it to loosen or detach during a crash. I am aware of multiple vehicles, including mine, currently waiting for replacement windshields at the dealership with no known ETA for replacement or repair of the windshield. This is a historical issue that JLRNA was ordered to resolve, as previous incidents were due to a manufacturing deviation in primer and bonding agent application.
I was driving on a popular street on [XXXX] which I do all the time. The street is very well maintained. There are very few potholes and no debris in the street. I do know how to dodge pot holes. I was headed south. I left my home early it was [XXX]. I heard a popping noise then the truck dropped. I saw the icon on the dash showing about low tire pressure. I was very scared. There wasn’t much traffic I was able to drive slowly to a business parking lot. When I got out of the truck I saw the big whole in the tire and the back bumper hanging off and sensors hanging down and the paneling around the tire off. I purchased this 2024 Discovery [XXX] it was brand new. I have about 6140 miles on the truck. The truck has never been in service for any problems, other than my key fob was not working correctly. I have never got any warning messages about any tire issues on the truck prior to this incident. I had the truck towed to the dealership where I purchased it from. The service person told me the truck needs to go to the Body shop because it is not drivable. He told me they could put a tire on it but since you can’t drive it. I said why did you tell me about it for when you can’t drive it. I spoke to the owner of the dealership and he said I hit something. I told him I didn’t. There was nothing in the street. No one has taken the tire off to inspect at it. The truck will be sitting at the body shop for 2 weeks until they are able to work on it. The tire size is P185/75R1482S. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
DRiving down the highway at night in the rain and car died completely... all electronics shut off, car shut off and had no power to steering or breaks or anything. WOuld not start once it was pulled over and had to be towed to dealer. At the dealership i was told the leaking windshield had eroded the wiring throughout. they could not start or power the car at all. they removed the complete interior and have had the car for 45 days with no estimate of when it is drivable again.
My car caught on fire while driving only 5 days, and 210 miles, after being purchased brand new. I first smelled melted plastic, few seconds after that saw smoke rising up under the driver seat and then felt the seat getting hot and saw flames shooting under my seat. All along there were no warning messages or light displayed on the car. The car burned completely and was deemed totaled by my insurance. Insurance investigation, along with Land Rover representatives and local law enforcement detectives that were assigned to the case, determined it to be a manufacturing issue.
Our DC converter caused an electrical malfunction which is apparently such a big problem that our dealership can not get the necessary parts to fix the problem. We are being told we are number 21 in line.
DC/DC converter failed (January 2025) and is sitting at the dealership. My vehicle completely shut down while I was driving on the interstate. I had the same issue in April 2024 and was without my vehicle for nearly 2 months.
DC DC converter failed while driving. Car shut down and rolled to a stop. Could jump start the car but would only work for 10 seconds or so to move it out of traffic. 1-2 month part delay.
The DC-DC converter went out in December. The vehicle has 53,000 miles on it, so it is just out of warranty. I live 100 miles from the nearest dealership so I had it towed to a local shop. I was originally told the part was on back order until Mid-February. I was told yesterday, they think it may not be available until May 2026. If this is such a big issue that they can not keep up with the part, why is this not a recall item?
Perrelli Scorpion 255/55R20 tires experience experience excessive wear down to cords in under 15K miles. Tires are in adequate to support the weight of the vehicle.
Dear NHTSA, I am writing to report a safety issue with my 2023 Land Rover Discovery Metropolitan that occurred on April [XXX] 2024. VIN: [XXX] The issue involved the steering wheel locking unexpectedly. After parking the car overnight for 15 hours, I returned to find a message indicating lane departure assist wasn't working, and the steering wheel was completely locked and inoperable. I attempted various troubleshooting steps, including changing driving modes, restarting the car, and checking for software updates, but none resolved the problem. While the car functioned normally in terms of forward and backward movement, the locked steering wheel prevented any turning ability. There were also no warning lights or error messages displayed on the dashboard. The only solution I found was to perform a hard reset by disconnecting the negative battery cable for 3 minutes and then reconnecting it. It's concerning that a similar issue appears to be reported by other Land Rover owners online, particularly with Defender models. [XXX] My primary concern is the possibility of this malfunction occurring while driving, which could lead to a serious accident. There seems to be no guarantee that this isn't a potential risk. I will be in contact with the Land Rover dealership locally and urge NHTSA to investigate this potential safety concern with Land Rover vehicles. Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
I was in a parking lot adjusting settings via the touch screen when the vehicle suddenly deactivated the key fob rendering the vehicle useless. The only option was to get the spare key to start the vehicle. This presents a safety issue for all occupants if the vehicle is disabled because of a malfunction with the key, potentially leaving people stranded in a unsafe environment.
Showing 20 of 114 total NHTSA complaints. Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
Check a Specific LAND Rover Discovery
This page shows fleet averages across all 10 model years. Enter a VIN to see the exact accident history, odometer records, title brands, and open recall status for a specific car.
📖 Understanding This Data
What is an NHTSA Complaint?
An NHTSA safety complaint is a report filed directly by a vehicle owner or driver describing a safety-related issue. Anyone can submit a complaint at NHTSA.gov. The number of complaints is a signal of how common a problem is — but complaints per model-year matter more than raw totals, since popular vehicles naturally receive more reports. The LAND Rover Discovery has 114 complaints on record across 10 model years.
What is a Safety Recall?
A safety recall is a mandatory campaign issued by NHTSA when a vehicle component poses an unreasonable risk to safety or does not comply with federal motor vehicle safety standards. Unlike complaints (which are owner-reported), recalls are formally investigated and confirmed by regulators. Manufacturers must fix recalled vehicles free of charge. The LAND Rover Discovery has 28 recall campaigns in the NHTSA database.
What Are Crash Complaints?
Crash complaints are NHTSA filings where the owner indicates a crash occurred as part of the incident. 4 of the LAND Rover Discovery's 114 complaints involved a crash. This metric is particularly important because it indicates how often defects resulted in actual collisions — a key safety signal beyond general reliability.
How Is the AI Rating Calculated?
The AI reliability rating (Below Average) is generated by analyzing the vehicle's total complaints, recall history, crash complaint ratio, fire complaint ratio, and top component failures relative to class averages. The rating provides a plain-English summary for buyers who want a quick verdict without parsing raw numbers. It is one input in your buying decision — always verify with a VIN-specific report.
Why Do Newer Years Have Fewer Complaints?
Newer model years appear to have fewer complaints because there has been less time for owners to file them. Complaints accumulate over years of ownership. A 2020 model year vehicle will typically show fewer complaints than a 2015 model year even if it is less reliable — simply because fewer owners have had time to report issues. Focus on complaints per year of market presence when comparing across model years.
Fleet Data vs. Individual VIN
Everything on this page reflects aggregated data across all LAND Rover Discovery vehicles on the road — not any specific car. Two LAND Rover Discovery vehicles of the same year can have very different histories: one may have been in three accidents and have an open recall; another may be clean. A VIN check gives you the individual car's history: accidents, title brands, odometer records, service history, and real-time recall status.
What Are NHTSA Investigations?
When NHTSA receives a pattern of related safety complaints, it opens a formal investigation. A Preliminary Evaluation (PE) is the first stage — NHTSA determines if a safety defect may exist. If evidence is strong, it escalates to an Engineering Analysis (EA), which can result in a mandatory recall. The LAND Rover Discovery has 0 investigations on record (0 active). Investigations listed above may have already led to the recalls shown on this page.