2021 Land Rover Defender 110 VIN Check, Recalls & Reliability
The 2021 Land Rover Defender 110 has mixed reliability. There are 7 recalls and 32 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Land Rover Defender 110. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Visibility Wiper (12), Exterior Lighting (8), Electrical System (3).
Defender 110 reliability snapshot
59/100
Latest model-year reliability score
2.0/5
RepairPal rating (overall)
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
Research the Land Rover Defender 110 before checking the VIN
Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.
Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
Visibility Wiper12
Exterior Lighting8
Electrical System3
Structure2
Unknown Or Other2
Fuel System, Gasoline1
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2021 Land Rover Defender 110
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
☐Inspect headlamps and daytime running lights for functionality
☐Check for any windshield cracks or signs of previous replacements
☐Test the electrical system for any stalling or low battery warnings
☐Verify A-pillar moldings are securely fastened
☐Ensure there are no unusual noises at highway speeds
What owners reported
2021 Land Rover Defender 110 owner complaints in detail
Owner complaints12
VISIBILITY/WIPER
Owners report frequent instances of the windshield on the 2021 Land Rover Defender 110 developing cracks spontaneously, often without any apparent impact or external force. Complaints frequently mention cracks forming while the vehicle is both stationary and in motion, with some owners noting sudden loud popping sounds prior to the appearance of a crack. The temperature conditions at the time of these incidents vary, but several reports describe occurrences during high temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Mileage at the time of these incidents ranges from as low as 5,000 to 12,000 miles. Safety implications are noted, as cracks can rapidly progress, potentially affecting visibility and related safety features such as cameras and lane departure systems. Multiple owners also describe prolonged delays in obtaining replacement windshields, citing backorders and incorrect parts being supplied.
Owner complaints8
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Owners of the 2021 Land Rover Defender 110 frequently report issues with the exterior lighting, particularly with the daytime running lights and headlamps. Complaints commonly describe simultaneous failures of the daytime running lights, often necessitating expensive full headlamp replacements, with costs cited between $4,000 and $5,000. Some reports indicate headlamp failures occurring around 49,000 miles, with subsequent issues shortly after. Additionally, owners mention a lack of warning lights for these failures, which can lead to reduced visibility and potential legal issues in regions requiring daytime running lights. Used car buyers should be aware of these reported issues, as they may incur significant repair costs and affect vehicle safety.
Owner complaints3
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Owners of the 2021 Land Rover Defender 110 report issues primarily with the electrical system, specifically the DC/DC converter failure and problems with the daytime running lights (DRL) on the passenger side. Symptoms include the failure of the "Signature" halo lights within the headlamp assembly, which some owners note requires a costly replacement of the entire unit. Another reported issue involves the vehicle stalling unexpectedly, preceded by a low battery warning, with one owner linking this to a known recall for similar problems. These electrical issues can result in vehicle stalling and potential inspection failures, posing a safety concern. Complaints do not specify mileage, but they highlight the importance of checking warranty coverage for these issues.
Owner complaints2
STRUCTURE
Owners of the 2021 Land Rover Defender 110 report issues with the vehicle's A-pillar moldings, particularly at highway speeds. Complaints frequently mention a crackling or flapping noise, attributed to the moldings not being securely fastened, allowing air to pass underneath. In one instance, the right windshield pillar molding detached while driving, causing scratches on adjacent panels and requiring temporary repairs with duct tape. These issues have been noted shortly after purchase, even in Certified Pre-Owned models, suggesting that the problem may not be caught during inspections. Safety implications include the risk of the molding detaching at high speeds, which could potentially lead to accidents.
Owner complaints2
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Owners report frequent issues with cracked windshields on the 2021 Land Rover Defender 110, with some experiencing multiple replacements within a short period. Complaints typically describe hairline cracks that expand over time, often following minor impacts from small debris. These issues are noted as occurring at relatively low mileages, around 15,000 miles, and some owners mention waiting several months for replacement parts. Safety concerns are highlighted, as large cracks can obstruct visibility and interfere with driver assistance systems, potentially leading to unsafe driving conditions. This pattern may be important for potential buyers to consider, especially if purchasing a used vehicle with a history of windshield replacements.
2021 Defender 110 recalls (7)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2021 Defender 110. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
EQUIPMENT, STRUCTURENHTSA 24E102000Dec 6, 2024
Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC (Land Rover) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Land Rover Defender vehicles equipped with Raised Air Intake (RAI) aftermarket accessory equipment, with part number VPLEP0543. The raised air intake may not be secured properly, which can allow the intake to detach from the vehicle.
Consequence: A detached raised air intake can fall off the vehicle and become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect, and if necessary, remove and reinstall the RAI accessory, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed February 20, 2025. Owners may contact Land Rover customer service at 1-800-637-6837. Land Rover's number for this recall is N964.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLINGNHTSA 23V044000Feb 2, 2023
Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC (Land Rover) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Range Rover Sport, 2020-2023 Range Rover, Defender, 2022-2023 Discovery, and 2023 Range Rover Velar vehicles. The engine cam carrier oil channel may be blocked, which can lead to an oil leak.
Consequence: An oil leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the engine cam carrier and related components as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2023. Owners may contact Land Rover customer service at 1-800-637-6837. Land Rover's number for this recall is N763.
SEAT BELTSNHTSA 21V668000Aug 26, 2021
Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC (Land Rover) is recalling certain 2021 Range Rover, 2022 Range Rover Sport, 2020-2021 Range Rover Velar, Discovery Sport, 2020-2022 Discovery, and Defender vehicles. The seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly.
Consequence: An unsecured child restraint system can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the seat belt assemblies as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed October 20, 2021. Owners may contact Land Rover customer service at 1-800-637-6837. Land Rover's number for this recall is N630.
EQUIPMENT, CHILD SEATNHTSA 21V584000Jul 29, 2021
Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC (Land Rover) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Land Rover Defender vehicles. The owner's manual incorrectly states that the third-row seating is equipped with LATCH child seat restraints with top tethers. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 225, "Child Restraint Anchorage Systems."
Consequence: Incorrect child restraint information may result in a child seat being improperly secured, which can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
Remedy
Land Rover will mail owners the correct information to insert into the owner's manual, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 23, 2021. Owners may contact Land Rover customer service at 1-800-637-6837. Land Rover's number for this recall is N601.
SEATSNHTSA 21V499000Jul 1, 2021
Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC (Land Rover) is recalling certain 2021 Defender 90 vehicles equipped with manually-adjustable front seats. The front seat track end-stop bracket may become deformed, which could prevent the seat from locking into place.
Consequence: A seat that is not properly locked into place can move unintentionally during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the front seat tracks, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 28, 2021. Owners may contact Land Rover customer service at 1-800-637-6837. Land Rover's number for this recall is N609.
EXTERIOR LIGHTINGNHTSA 21V435000Jun 8, 2021
Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC (Land Rover) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Defender X vehicles equipped with smoked rear light assemblies. A voltage spike, triggered by a bright light shining on the rear of the vehicle, can cause the turn signals, brake lights, and tail lights to fail.
Consequence: Turn signals, brake lights, and tail lights that fail to illuminate can reduce visibility to other drivers and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the rear light assemblies, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed September 27, 2021. Owners can contact Land Rover customer service at 1-800-637-6837. Land Rover's number for this recall is N598.
POWER TRAIN, ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 21V424000Jun 3, 2021
Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC (Land Rover) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Land Rover Defender vehicles equipped with 6-cylinder engines. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) may unexpectedly switch off while the vehicle is in motion, resulting in an engine stall with no warning.
Consequence: An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
The Connected Diagnostic Services (CDS) and the Over-the-air (OTA) diagnostics functionality will be disabled, either by a dealer or through an OTA update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 28, 2021. Owners may contact Land Rover customer service at 1-800-637-6837. Land Rover's number for this recall is N599.
2021 Land Rover Defender 110 on the road
15,287 2021 Land Rover Defender 110 units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.
How the 2021 Land Rover Defender 110 stacks up against rivals
The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.
Reliability verdict for the 2021 Land Rover Defender 110
The 2021 Land Rover Defender 110 exhibits an elevated reliability risk, scoring below the segment average. With seven recalls, there is an elevated level of manufacturer-identified issues, which suggests potential concerns for buyers prioritizing dependability.
Complaints are concentrated primarily in visibility and wiper systems, followed by exterior lighting. This focus indicates that these areas may require more attention than others. The electrical system, structure, and miscellaneous issues are less frequently reported, suggesting they are not widespread concerns.
Overall, the Defender 110's reliability is below the segment average, with specific areas of concern that prospective buyers should consider. This model presents a higher risk level compared to its peers.
What you get in a 2021 Land Rover Defender 110 report
✓Available title brand history
✓Odometer readings & rollback detection
✓Accident & damage records
✓Auction sales with photos
✓Open safety recalls
✓Theft & stolen vehicle check
Check a 2021 Land Rover Defender 110 now
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2021 Land Rover Defender 110 — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2021 Land Rover Defender 110 reliable?
The 2021 Land Rover Defender 110 exhibits an elevated reliability risk, scoring below the segment average. With seven recalls, there is an elevated level of manufacturer-identified issues, which suggests potential concerns for buyers prioritizing dependability.
How many recalls does the 2021 Land Rover Defender 110 have?
7 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2021 Land Rover Defender 110. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2021 Land Rover Defender 110 problems?
The most-reported 2021 Land Rover Defender 110 problem areas are: Visibility Wiper (12), Exterior Lighting (8), Electrical System (3).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2021 Land Rover Defender 110?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2021 Land Rover Defender 110, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.
