Once just the most popular model of vehicle produced by Land Rover, Range Rover is now a sub-brand of the company with multiple models marketed with Range Rover branding. A part of the Jaguar Land Rover holding company, Range Rover vehicles have been in production since 1970. While the brand is primarily known for the classic Range Rover, it has earned some attention for its offshoot variants including the Range Rover Evoque, Sport, and Velar.

Popular Range Rover Models

The Range Rover is more than just the signature vehicle under the Land Rover marque; it is one of the most recognizable vehicles in the Jaguar family. The current model of Range Rover is the fourth generation and has been offered since 2012. However, the vehicle can trace its design roots to the original Land Rover.

One of the most popular offshoots of the Range Rover brand is the Range Rover Evoque. The Evoque is a subcompact SUV that is much smaller than the standard Range Rover. The Range Rover Evoque was first manufactured in 2011, and it is known for being highly customizable. It comes in multiple styles including a five-door model, three-door model, and even a convertible coupe.

In between the Evoque and the Range Rover is the Range Rover Velar. The Velar is a compact crossover SUV that first entered production in 2017. Marketed as a sportier and more maneuverable than other offerings from Range Rover, the Velar is considered by many to have the best on-road performance of any vehicle under the Range Rover brand.

The first variant of the Range Rover was the Range Rover Sport. Introduced in 2005, the Range Rover Sport is a mid-size SUV that is the largest in the lineup behind only the classic Range Rover. Originally, the body of the Sport was closer to a crossover than a mid-size SUV. However, the vehicle's second generation design saw the Sport grow into the mid-size category.

Range Rover Safety Ratings

Range Rover has received strong marks for safety over the years, but it can be difficult to compare their vehicles to similar models from other manufacturers. That is because the company has not submitted their models for review by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). However, there have been a variety of other safety tests done on these models, primary by European regulators. Under the Euro New Car Assessment Program, the classic Range Rover scored a perfect five stars out of five.

The Range Rover Sport has also tested well in previous years, although their scores have not always been perfect. In 2010, the Range Rover Sport received mixed reviews regarding the risk of whiplash from that year's model.

Recalls, Defects, and Safety Issues

Despite mostly strong safety ratings, there have been a wide array of mechanical defects and safety issues  Range Rover vehicles have suffered from in recent years. And while many of those issues have resulted in recalls, a number of them have yet to be formally addressed by the manufacturer. To see if your Range Rover vehicle is subject to a recall, see their official site and search using your VIN.

Emissions Issues

While the emission-testing scandal surrounding Volkswagen has dominated headlines in recent years, Range Rover vehicles have had their own problems with emission testing. After hearing concerns from regulators, more than 44,000 vehicles have been recalled due to Range Rover not meeting the greenhouse gas emission requirements of many European countries. Range Rover has reportedly reached out in an effort to repair the affected vehicles.

Engine Failure

A faulty retaining bolt in the crankshaft pulley of several thousand Range Rover vehicles was discovered in March of 2019. In some cases, this malfunction could lead to engine failure. The issue led to an immediate recall, where the manufacturer agreed to make the necessary repairs. And while the risk of engine failure and even crashing were evident, there have been no reports of accidents or injuries due to this defect.

The issue stems from the defective construction of the retaining bolt. After a short period of normal use, the bolt can fracture which can potentially cause the engine to fail. If the engine failure occurred while the vehicle was traveling at high speeds, it could lead to a crash.

Turn Signal Malfunction

A number of Range Rover and Range Rover Sport vehicles from model years 2018 and 2019 were found to have faulty turn signals. While the dashboard indicators would reflect that the signals were operational, the turn signal lights failed to activate. These compromised turn signal indicators could potentially lead a crash when turning or changing lanes, given nearby vehicles may be unaware of any attempt to signal. The affected Range Rover vehicles can be repaired with a simple fix, according to the recall notice.

Faulty Fuel Gauge

Both the Range Rover as well as the Range Rover Sport from model year 2017 face a recall from the manufacturer due to an incorrect fuel gauge. Nearly 2,000 models were affected. According to the recall notice, an error with the sensor caused the vehicle computer to indicate the fuel level was low despite ample fuel. The issue goes beyond the potential hassle of an incorrect fuel gauge light on your dashboard, however. When a Range Rover model is nearly out of gas, the onboard computer will force the engine to stall out in an effort to protect the high-pressure fuel pump from being damaged due to the low fuel level.

Range Rover Problems? Discuss Your Options with an Attorney and Get the Help You Need.

If you are facing a recall or safety issue with your Range Rover vehicle, you have options. You may be able to rely on the California Lemon Law to receive cash compensation, a new replacement vehicle from the manufacturer, or even a statutory buyback. To learn about your options, contact the experienced professionals with The Lemon Lawyer.  Our team will help you understand your rights and answer your questions for free!