Sad Start for my dream car
This is a pity seeking post. I need virtual hugs.
(And yes, I admit i missed some key steps in the verification process before purchasing so I expect the opposite of emotional support in many replies 😆)
I bought a 2016 Land Rover LR4 HSE LUX over the weekend. ($9k price, 130k mi, clean title, 2 owners).
48 hours later the check engine light is on.
Been looking for a while and being patient. The car seemed pretty nice shape. Clean inside and out. The husband and wife were very nice - no scam vibes going on. In hindsight, maybe they said as little as possible. I made the offer based on the vibe and did not take it to a mechanic for the $300 used car inspection.
My dad and others consistently told me that land rovers are money pits with lots of never ending issues. And they all commented how expensive they are to fix. I did my best to listen and resist. My land rover loving biased neighbor said they are awesome. (But he is in a tax bracket way above me so problems likely don’t impact him the same way).
This seemed like a good deal worth the risk. I am sad I am experiencing said risk only 2 days in.
So off I go to the expensive dealer. Who knows what I’m in for.
Advice Question:
Is there a software odbc reader that I can get to read the proprietary codes myself without having to “trust” a dealer?
Posted Jun 30, 2026, 2:49 AM UTC