Land Rover Repair: 2001 Land Rover Discovery II, land rover discovery, temper tantrum

Question
John, I just purchased a Land Rover a little less than a month ago, and it has been inoperable for about 2.5 of the 4 weeks that I have had it. The problems started when I filled it up with what was labeled 92 Octane fuel from what I realize now was a questionable fuel station. Ever since it has stopped several times while driving, and at those times after I waited several hours it would start again, only to stop a few minutes later while driving. It hasn't done any shaking or vibrating, it just won't start on demand and the times it stops seems random. A mechanic suggests a fuel pump problem, but I am wondering if bad gas can get this type of temper tantrum from my vehicle.

It has nearly 100K miles on it already and just seems to be giving me the blues at the onset. I love the vehicle and want very badly to keep it, but it seems extremely temperamental and very difficult to properly maintain. Having so many problems with it right after purchasing is really discouraging and making me second guess the make of vehicle itself. Are Land Rover's really this difficult to own?

Please help!
Yanika Daniels

Answer
Hi Yanika,

when LR's are running, they are the best vehicles on the road...when they are in need of repair, it can be an owner's nightmare.

You should determine if you are getting fuel delivered to the spark plugs.  Try deliberately flooding the engine, then quickly remove a spark plug and see if it is wet.

Next, look at all the spark plugs. If you've only had it a month or so, maybe you can change the plugs anyway. Was this done before you bought it?

If you don't know what was done before your purchase, here's what I would do...change the spark plugs and wires.  Make sure you get the best spark plugs and wire set (blue).  Champion Platinum's are what I use.

Change the fuel filter.  If its clogged or fouled, its time to replace after 100K anyway.

Change the air filter.

The problems you describe seem to be ignition related, so make sure the system is running correctly.

If you did not buy it from a LR dealer, at least visit the nearest LR dealership and register yourself as the new owner.  You'll get an immediate 'feel' for how the dealership service department works by how they "meet 'n greet" you.  If they don't want your business...go elsewhere.

Best of luck with this,

JohnMc

Seems like all British autos are like this. I have a '95 Disco and sometimes I think it has a mind of its own.