Land Rover Repair: 1998 Land Rover Discover LE oil leak, steering damper, ball joints

Question
i have a 98 discovery le.  when i make sharp turns it make a grinding noise. when i drive over 50 mph it vibrates & when i go over big bumps it makes a thumping noise.... any ideas???

Answer
Hi Heather,

my first thought was the CV joint (grinding noise on turns); sounds creepy and can leave you stranded if it finally goes.  Try locking your differential in LOW and see if the noise can be duplicated.

It may be related to the other problems you mention.  Vibrations over 50mph (is it more like a violent shudder?) could be suspension related - new shocks and steering damper fixed this problem on my series I Disco.  I would experience violent shudders when crossing over railroad tracks.  Scarry.  Could also be tie rods, ball joints, steering column universal joint.  

Find a local suspension shop and they may be able to help you otherwise the LR dealer will have to repair this.  

Send me an email and tell me where you would like to have your Disco repaired - I may be able to locate an independent LR mechanic that could save you money.

Best wishes for 2010,

JohnMc