2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Safety Report

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport presents a mixed safety picture, with several concerning issues despite a relatively low number of overall complaints. NHTSA has recorded 38 complaints, including 4 crashes and 9 injuries, but no fires or deaths. A significant concern is the lack of official NHTSA crash test ratings (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover are all N/A), which makes it difficult to assess its performance in controlled crash scenarios. However, the vehicle has been subject to 6 recalls, indicating proactive measures by the manufacturer to address identified safety defects. Common complaint patterns reveal issues with the engine and electrical systems, often leading to loss of motive power or vehicle shutdown. For instance, multiple complaints detail '48V DCDC converter failed' or 'charging system alternator failures,' sometimes resulting in the car shutting off at speed or at a light. Coolant leaks are also frequently reported, with one complaint explicitly mentioning a 'fuel supply line from fuel tank at the engine is leaking on top of the valve cover causing a fire hazzard.' These issues, particularly those affecting power and potential fire risks, are serious. The recall history highlights several critical safety concerns. Two recalls address 'BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA' issues where water ingress can disable the rearview camera, increasing crash risk. Another recall, 'ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION,' warns of an oil leak that could lead to fire. Furthermore, two recalls pertain to 'TIRES' and 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE' related to incorrect tire pressure labeling and a faulty Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), both of which can increase the risk of a crash due to improper tire inflation. The 'EXTERIOR LIGHTING:LIGHTING CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE' recall addresses an Auto High Beam system defect that could reduce visibility for oncoming traffic. The combination of unrated crash performance, recurring engine/electrical complaints, and multiple safety recalls suggests that while the vehicle has not had a high volume of complaints, the nature of the reported problems and recalls points to significant potential safety risks.

Our recommendation: Given the lack of crash test ratings, multiple critical safety recalls, and recurring reports of engine and electrical failures leading to loss of power, potential buyers should proceed with caution and thoroughly investigate the vehicle's service history, ensuring all recalls have been addressed.