Non Dealership Edmonton Repair Shop Recommendations for Early Oughts Defender

[Oliver Klosov]

Hello Everyone,

After a two and a half year wait, I finally took delivery this summer and am the proud owner of a 2002 Defender 110, restored by Tophat Defenders in the Netherlands. A long wait but so worth it.  ;D I'm looking forward to many years of adventures with this vehicle and hopefully to also get to know other members of the small community of Defender enthusiasts on this forum.

Although I've probably learned more about the subject through the process of planning and taking delivery of this vehicle than in the entirety of my life prior, I am not particularly mechanically inclined and am therefore looking for recommendations for an auto repair shop in the Edmonton area...  in the (cough cough) unlikely event that my Defender should ever need the attentions of a qualified mechanic. Each of the things I want most and least: experience working on Defenders and nothing to do with any dealership; seems to narrow my choices down to... well zero so far.

No shortage of "European Car Specialists" who claim to be able to fix anything imported but I'm not keen on paying for what might end up being someone else's learning curve and time spent sourcing parts. Not holding out for a unicorn-like Northern Alberta "Defender Specialist" here but surely there must be a shop passionate about Land Rovers and also having some bench strength with experience, perhaps acquired overseas, working on the rougher forebears of today's luxurious but occasionally high strung beasts. I'd like all that bundled up with quality work, reasonable rates, and good old fashioned honesty in customer dealings. Too much to ask? I'm sure its out there... suggestions appreciated.

One more thing. I realize how much of a handicap not being mechanically inclined is in this world I've just jumped into with both feet, so educating and informing myself and hopefully acquiring some DIY skills is high on the agenda. The most important thing I've learned so far? What an incredibly valuable resource the individuals on this and other Land Rover forums are. Example: I just ordered a nano.com OBD2 reader based on forum recommendations of its value. So, a heartfelt thank you to those of you who take the time to share your wisdom and your journeys.

Thanks,


Coles Notes version for those with less time: Can anyone recommend a good repair shop in Edmonton with mechanics that have experience and training working on Defenders and/or Td5 engines?

[Red90]

https://www.sportscarcentre.ca/

[bumpydormobile]

Welcome to the club Oliver
I'll second that, Bert and Dave know their shit!
Let's see some pictures of the 110

[Matt H]

Dave has forgotten more about Land Rover Defenders than most of us will ever learn.
Dave works for Bert.
Bert owns 'The Sports Car Centre'.

Congratulations on your Defender.

[binch]

Yup, Sports Car Centre is your best bet.

https://www.sportscarcentre.ca/contact-us

on a side note.....It's not a bad idea to have you landy appraised for insurance purposes.    The old style defenders are going up in value, contrary to what the insurance company's are telling us. ;)

[Oliver Klosov]

Original post rather a long time ago but finally took some OK photos

[binch]

Very nice  ;)

[Oliver Klosov]

Thanks, Bill! :D

[Lukester]

I have been to Bert's as a new customer a few times this past few weeks getting my 02 discovery back into shape and I have seen more than a few defenders in and around his shop each time so I support what others are saying. Small intimate shop that treat people the right way! Can't go wrong me thinks !