Discovery III / LR3 (2004-2009): How to Remove Bumpers

The Land Rover Discovery 3 (or LR3 as it was called in North America) is a vehicle that in 2004 revolutionized the concept of a comfortable yet indestructible SUV. It combined premium luxury with off-road capability worthy of the harshest conditions. Let's examine what makes this model so remarkable, how it evolved over time, and what interesting facts are associated with it.

Model Code and Platform

The Discovery 3 was based on an entirely new T5 platform (Terrain Response 5), replacing the outdated frame of the Discovery 2. The L319 code is the factory designation for the model, known by engineers and brand enthusiasts.

A key feature was the Terrain Response system - the world's first production SUV with adaptive driving modes for different surfaces (gravel, snow, sand, rocks). This wasn't just electronic simulation of locks, but a full-fledged intelligent system adjusting engine, transmission and suspension operation to off-road conditions.

Facelift: What Changed?

In 2009, the Discovery 3 received a minor facelift, though the updated version was officially called Discovery 4 (L319 continued being used but with refinements). However, in some countries where sales were less active, the model remained under its old name with updated styling.

Changes included:

• Exterior: new bumpers, radiator grille, LED daytime running lights, slightly redesigned headlights

• Interior: higher quality materials, improved multimedia system, additional sound insulation

• Technical aspects: new engines including the powerful 3.0 TDV6 (replacing the old 2.7), plus enhanced suspension

While officially this was already a new model, many enthusiasts still consider the Discovery 3 and 4 to be very close "relatives."

Bumper Plastic (may vary): Polypropylene plus ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer, 12% mineral filler. Marking >PP+EPDM-T12<

How to Remove Front Bumper

1. Open hood

2. Release fasteners (shown by blue arrows in diagram) and remove radiator grille (press four upper fasteners down, two lower fasteners up)

3. Release fasteners and remove headlights

4. Under grille and headlights, unscrew six bolts (inserted top to bottom) securing upper bumper part and inside wheel arches unscrew one screw per side securing wheel arch extensions

5. From underside, unscrew six screws (inserted bottom to top)

6. In wheel arches, unscrew three screws and remove three clips per side securing wheel liners and arch extensions

7. Remove wheel arch extensions (just pull toward you)

8. Unscrew one screw per side securing corners to fenders

9. Disconnect fog light connectors and headlight washer hoses

10. With assistant, remove bumper by pulling forward

How to Remove Rear Bumper

1. Open tailgate

2. Unscrew two screws per side, release fasteners and remove taillights

3. Under taillights, unscrew one screw per side

4. Under left taillight, disconnect parking sensor connectors

5. In trunk opening, remove four clips (inserted top to bottom)

6. From underside, unscrew six screws (inserted bottom to top)

7. In wheel arches, unscrew two screws and remove two clips per side securing arch extensions

8. Remove wheel arch extensions (held by clips, pull toward you) and remove one clip per side under them securing corners to fenders

9. With assistant, release fender clips and remove bumper by pulling backward

Model Description: What Made It Special?

The Discovery 3 was a classic seven-seat SUV with body-on-frame construction and independent suspension (rare for such vehicles at the time). It offered:

• Powerful engines: gasoline 4.4 V8 (300 hp) and 4.0 V6 (216 hp), diesels 2.7 TDV6 (190 hp) and later 3.0 TDV6 (245 hp)

• Comfortable cabin - with three-zone climate control, premium leather seats and panoramic roof

• Incredible off-road capability - 310mm ground clearance, 37° approach angle, removable exhaust extension for water fording

• Balanced design - elegant yet functional without excessive brutality

Interesting Facts

• The Discovery 3 nearly ruined Land Rover - due to electronics issues and high production costs, it initially lost money. After refinements, it became a hit

• It was tested in Dubai - engineers verified AC operation at +50°C by leaving the vehicle idling for hours in the desert

• It outlived the Discovery 4 - in Australia and some Asian countries, the D3 sold alongside the new model as a more affordable option

• Used by military - British army employed special versions with reinforced suspension and armor

• Last Discovery with "ladder" roof - the signature stepped roof (inherited from early generations) disappeared only with the Discovery 5

Conclusion: Why Is the Discovery 3 Still Valuable?

This model is a true survivor. Even today, well-maintained used Discovery 3s are valued higher than many modern SUVs. The reason is simple: it was the last truly "iron" Land Rover before simplified platforms and urban SUVs.

If you want an SUV that isn't afraid of mud but doesn't sacrifice comfort, the Discovery 3 is an excellent choice. The key is finding one with good mechanical condition and properly maintaining its complex electronics. Then this British powerhouse will last for many more years.