2016 Land Rover Discovery Sport Safety Report

2016 Land Rover Discovery Sport: Significant mechanical issues reported, impacting steering, engine, and braking systems.

48Complaints
2Recalls
45/100Reliability Score
3Crash Reports
Most reported components: Engine (8)Structure (5)Power Train (5)Electrical System (3)Unknown Or Other (3)Service Brakes (3)Steering (2)Power Train,Service Brakes (2)Power Train,Engine (2)Fuel System, Gasoline (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Land Rover Discovery Sport

The 2016 Land Rover Discovery Sport presents a mixed safety picture, with a significant number of complaints related to critical component failures, despite a lack of severe crash outcomes reported to NHTSA. The vehicle has 48 total complaints, including 3 reported crashes, but fortunately, no reported fatalities or injuries. However, the absence of NHTSA crash test ratings (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover are all N/A) leaves a gap in understanding its performance in standardized collision scenarios. The recall history includes two safety actions: one concerning potential separation of the front suspension knuckle due to fastener failure, which could affect vehicle handling and increase crash risk, and another related to exterior lighting (license plate illumination) that could hinder vehicle identification at night. Common complaint patterns point towards serious issues with the ENGINE (8 complaints), STRUCTURE (5 complaints), and POWER TRAIN (5 complaints). Specific examples include steering failure due to sheared bolts, cracked turbo-manifolds leading to fumes in the cabin, crankshaft pulley failures causing extensive engine damage, and brake line ruptures. These issues, particularly those affecting steering, braking, and engine integrity, raise significant safety concerns.

Reliability Score

The 2016 Land Rover Discovery Sport receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.

Known Issues for the 2016 Land Rover Discovery Sport

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Land Rover Discovery Sport:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Steering Failure
Reports of steering failure due to sheared bolts or electric motor detachment from the steering mechanism, leading to complete loss of control.
High Common 30000-70000 miles
Engine Component Failure
Failures of critical engine components like crankshaft pulleys and turbo-manifolds, leading to engine damage, loss of power, and fumes entering the cabin.
High Common 50000-100000 miles
Brake System Failure
Instances of brake line ruptures and spongy brake pedals, leading to loss of braking power.
High Occasional 50000-70000 miles
Transmission/Gear Shifter Malfunction
Gear shifter becoming stuck in 'Drive' or 'Gearbox Fault' warnings, preventing proper gear selection and potentially leading to loss of motive power.
High Occasional 40000-80000 miles
Door Latch Malfunction
Driver's side door not latching correctly, leading to the door opening while driving.
Medium Occasional 30000-70000 miles
Timing Chain Failure
Timing chain breakage leading to catastrophic engine failure.
High Rare 60000-100000 miles
Telematics Control Unit (Tcu) Obsolescence
InControl Remote features are non-functional due to reliance on obsolete 2G/3G networks.
Low Common N/A miles
Suspension Control Arm Fastener Failure
Recall related to potential separation of the front suspension knuckle due to fastener failure.
High Rare N/A miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Land Rover Discovery Sport:

Engine 16% of complaints

Engine-related issues are the most frequently reported, including crankshaft pulley failures, turbocharger problems, and timing chain breaks.

Steering 8% of complaints

Significant number of complaints regarding steering system failures, including loss of power assist and component detachment.

Power Train 10% of complaints

Issues with the power train, including transmission faults and gear shifter malfunctions.

Structure 10% of complaints

Complaints related to structural components, including door latches and roof rail detachment.

Service Brakes 6% of complaints

Reports of brake system failures, such as ruptured brake lines and spongy brake pedals.

Electrical System 6% of complaints

Complaints related to electrical systems, including telematics unit obsolescence and potential issues with other electrical components.

Fuel System, Gasoline 2% of complaints

Some complaints related to fuel system components, such as fuel injectors.

Unknown Or Other 6% of complaints

A portion of complaints fall into an 'unknown or other' category, making specific pattern identification difficult.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Land Rover Discovery Sport

Is the 2016 Land Rover Discovery Sport safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Land Rover Discovery Sport has a concerning number of complaints related to critical component failures, particularly in the steering, engine, and braking systems. While crash test ratings are unavailable, these mechanical issues could compromise safety.

What are common problems with the 2016 Land Rover Discovery Sport?

The most reported issues include engine component failures (like crankshaft pulleys and turbochargers), steering system failures, power train malfunctions (gearbox faults, stuck shifters), and structural issues such as door latches not securing properly.

Has the 2016 Land Rover Discovery Sport been recalled?

Yes, the 2016 Land Rover Discovery Sport has been subject to two recalls: one for potential front suspension knuckle separation due to fastener failure, and another for exterior lighting (license plate illumination).

What are the risks associated with the reported steering failures?

The steering failures reported, often due to sheared bolts or detached electric motors, can lead to a complete loss of vehicle control, posing a severe risk of accidents.

Are there any reported issues with the braking system?

Yes, there are reports of brake system failures, including ruptured brake lines and spongy brake pedals, which can result in a dangerous loss of braking power.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the significant number of complaints regarding critical mechanical failures, particularly in steering and engine components, potential buyers should exercise extreme caution and ensure thorough pre-purchase inspections and consider extended warranties.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Land Rover Discovery Sport

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Land Rover Discovery Sport. The data includes 48 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 3 reported crashes, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.