2019 Land Rover Discovery Sport Safety Report

The 2019 Land Rover Discovery Sport presents a mixed safety picture, primarily due to a concerning pattern of powertrain and engine-related complaints despite a lack of formal safety ratings from NHTSA. With 19 total complaints, including 1 crash, the vehicle has not been subject to any recalls, which is unusual given the nature of some reported issues. A significant number of complaints detail sudden loss of power, stalling, and transmission failures, which are critical safety concerns that could lead to dangerous situations on the road. For instance, multiple reports describe the vehicle shutting off or losing acceleration while driving, with one incident specifically mentioning the car stopping in traffic after a 'Gearbox Failed' warning. The most frequently reported issues revolve around the powertrain and engine, with several complaints detailing the vehicle stalling, failing to accelerate, or the transmission ceasing to function. Specific examples include a turbocharger failure at 62,000 miles and instances where the car would not go over 30 mph on the highway. These issues, while not leading to reported injuries or deaths in the provided data, represent a substantial risk of accidents due to unexpected vehicle behavior. The absence of NHTSA crash test ratings (Overall=N/A, Frontal=N/A, Side=N/A, Rollover=N/A) means there is no independent assessment of its crashworthiness, leaving consumers to rely solely on manufacturer claims and anecdotal evidence. Other notable complaints include issues with the electrical system, such as a charging system fault warning light and problems with the hood sensor preventing the vehicle from locking. There's also a concerning report of a left rear door flying open while the vehicle was in motion, with no dashboard warning. While the total number of complaints (19) is relatively low, the severity and recurring nature of the powertrain and engine problems, coupled with the lack of recalls and crash test data, suggest potential underlying safety deficiencies that warrant careful consideration by prospective buyers.

Our recommendation: Given the recurring and severe powertrain and engine issues, and the absence of NHTSA crash test ratings or recalls, prospective buyers should proceed with caution and consider a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, focusing on the transmission and engine.