Land Rover Repair: RR 4.6 2000 cylinder issue?, coolant leak, rangie


Question
Need a 2nd opinion. Took 4.6 in for 60k service (55kmiles). Had sat for a while unused then some city driving. Service light was on; engine ran slightly/subtly rough. At 60k service, also replaced spark plug wires (+$1k), heater core (coolant leak).  $$$$ into it.  After service, engine ran smooth for 3 days then Engine light back on and slightly rough again. Dealer "put more dielectric" on plugs/wires and ran smoothly for 3 days, then light back on and slightly rough again. Dealer now says 'some sort of cylinder wall failure' and wants $1700 to diagnose, but says it passes compression test. What is your advice? Bad original service? Possible bad fuel - get an additive? Thanks.

Answer
Hi David,

yes, if you go to a Dealer you will see $$$ in their eyes.  They like it when you visit them.

$1000 for wire change is the average charge by dealer.  Considering the effort it takes to remove the various components, its reasonable.  Parts: ~$150 the rest is labour (and profit)

As for cylinder wall failure ... watch out!   Common problems with LR engines are headgasket failures.  Usually about $2500 to repair.  If the cylinder liner has dropped - that's a new engine.

Send me an email and I'll try to find an INDEPENDENT LR mechanic near your locale.  Rangie has to be examined by someone with LR testbook equipment.  

Could be moisture in fuel if it sat for a long, long time.  Passing a compression test is a good sign it may be ignition related.

Best of luck,

JohnMc
jmcinnis64@hotmail.com