2003 Land Rover Freelander recalls and problems
The 2003 Land Rover Freelander has 5 safety recalls and 140 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Land Rover dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2003 Land Rover Freelander vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2003 Land Rover Freelander recalls
Recall 07V-041: Exterior Lighting
Problem: On certain sport utility vehicles, the brake lights may remain illuminated even when the brake pedal is not depressed. Hill descent control (Hdc), traction control (Tc) and cruise control warning lights may also be illuminated.
Risk: Failure to provide the proper signal when braking could lead to a crash without warning.
Fix: Dealers will inspect the brake lamp operation and where required, adjust and/or replace the brake light switches with new switches of the same design until a newly designed brake lamp switch is available in may 2007. Owners will then be re-notified to bring their vehicles in for the new brake light switch. An interim letter for the initial inspection was mailed on march 26, 2007. The second letter for replacement of the switches was mailed beginning july 30, 2007. Owners may contact land rover at 1-80-637-6837.
Recall 05V-300: Latches/Locks/Linkages
Problem: On certain five door sport utility vehicles, it is possible to operate the interior door handle to open the door when the child safety lever is in the "on" position.
Risk: The occupant may open the door inadvertently while the vehicle is in motion and fall out into the traffic, personal injuries could occur.
Fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the latch assembly. The recall began on september 8, 2005. Owners should contact land rover at 1-800-637-6837.
Recall 04V-489: Structure
Problem: On certain sport utility vehicles, an incorrect weld nut was installed. Lack of this bolt could eventually cause the subframe to crack or become deformed.
Risk: A cracked or deformed subframe could potentially lead to instability of the vehicle, which could result in a crash.
Fix: Dealers will inspect the vehicle to see if the subframe fixing is correctly fitted and clamped up. If necessary, the subframe will be replaced with a new one that has correct weld nuts. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule. Owners should contact land rover at 1-800-637-6837.
Recall 04V-347: Structure
Problem: Certain sport utility vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 201, "occupant protection in interior impact." during testing, the free motion head form registered a measurement marginally above the permitted 1000 head impact criteria. At the left and right hand a-pillar trim area.
Risk: In the event of a vehicle crash, personal injury to occupants may occur.
Fix: Dealers will replace the a-pillar trim with a revised component that enables the vehicle to fully meet the requirements of FMVSS 201. The recall began on december 6, 2005. Owners should contact land rover at 1-800-637-6837.
Recall 04V-207: Latches/Locks/Linkages
Problem: On certain sport utility vehicles, the child door lock on the left hand rear door can become disengaged.
Risk: This could lead to a child being able to open a rear door while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: Dealers will replace the left hand rear latch. The recall began december 4, 2004. Owners should contact land rover at 1-800-637-6837.
2003 Land Rover Freelander problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 98 | |
| Electrical System | 28 | |
| Fuel System, Gasoline | 28 | |
| Power Train | 27 | |
| Visibility | 13 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 10 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 10 | |
| Structure | 5 | |
| Fuel System, Other | 3 | |
| Latches/Locks/Linkages | 3 | |
| Air Bags | 3 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 3 |
Most reported parts
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 27
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Cooling System — 23
- Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 18
- Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump — 9
- Electrical System › 12v/24v/48v Battery — 4
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System — 4
- Exterior Lighting › Brake Lights › Switch — 3
- Visibility › Power Window Devices and Controls — 3
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 63,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2003 Land Rover Freelander complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Land Rover Freelander years
Compare all Land Rover Freelander years · All Land Rover models
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2003 Land Rover Freelander have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 5 recalls for the 2003 Land Rover Freelander: 07V-041 (exterior lighting), 05V-300 (latches/locks/linkages), 04V-489 (structure), 04V-347 (structure), 04V-207 (latches/locks/linkages). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2003 Land Rover Freelander?
Owners report engine and engine cooling problems most often (98 reports), followed by electrical system (28). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 63,000 miles.
Are Land Rover recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Land Rover dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.