I have been told to not buy a 2003 at any price becasue it was know to have problems is this true?

Check out www.carsurvey.org for some real-life, real-driver reviews of what have gone wrong with their vehicles. Then make a decision based on that, and whatever other concrete evidence you may have, as often times people hear "a certain year is bad" and just pass it on down the line.

The 2003 models are actually pretty good cars. The diesels are kinda flat, but a good V8 really is a pleasure to drive. Most with Front Diff problems will have been sorted by now, although there can be problems with the electrics that move the steering wheel, some of the suspension bushes can get a bit squeaky and gearboxes can give problems. However, they are excellent cars to drive, the V8's go like stink considering you're shifting near 3 tonnes of car along, have an interior like a leather living room suite, and certainly rival high spec Merc, BMW's and similar luxury cars. Just dont expect it to be a cheap car to run. Tyres are minimum £100 a corner with 18 inch wheels, and other parts are not anywhere near as cheap as for earlier models.

i've got an 03 diesel and have no problems with it,have to say though that it's really rattley at idle and the suspension is pretty noisy too..apart from that it's a good runner and reliable....i still prefer the X5 though!

There is a Technical Alert issued by Land Rover, TA03 1201, for an oil pump failure for VIN 3A771801 - 3A808362. The failure of the oil pump will result in complete engine failure, the only effective repair is replacement of the complete engine assembly. There are other chronic issues with the Discoveries, but there are several very helpful and established on-line forums for the Land Rover community. It's a love / hate relationship with the Disco.