Land Rover Repair: 99 Disco II bought used many problems, automatic gearbox, water leaks

Question
Hi

99 disco II 97k, V8 automatic petro

I bought my disco used... i'm 19 i don't know much about cars..especially discos...
There was a bad water leak problem and my shady dealer "fixed" it.. it IS sealed..but now my manual and sport mode lights are flashing... and now when i start the engine while its cold it roars up like i'm flooring it...and i noticed when i drive it, it feels kinda weak...like if i DO floor it... there is no difference in acceleration..
Also my rear left air suspension thingy goes up and down whenever it feels like it...i was told it could possibly be a relay since it DOES go up from time to time and stays up when it feels like it..

The dealer told me it was bought from california.. it was obviously taken offroading hence the chips in windshield... and the dealer said there were no reports of accidents or prior repairs

Answer
Hi James,

the water leak is a common problem to Disco's. I've yet to learn if the LR3 Discovery has this problem...

Water leaks can be caused by the seals between the steel roof and the corner post, the windshield and frame, the wheel well welds (say that 5 times real fast!) and or the Air Conditioning drain pipes.

As for the manual and sport lights flashing,

"If both the Manual and Sport mode lights flash together, this indicates an electrical fault with the automatic gearbox. If the lights continue flashing after the vehicle has been brought to a halt and the starter switch has been turned off and then on again, you should seek qualified assistance urgently."

Looks like a transmission problem.  A LR dealer will likely diagnose the problem using the Testbook device.  As the tech manual states...don't wait too long!

The rear suspension problem could be a simple short in the air suspension or a possible leak.  While your having the tranny check out, have them look into the air suspension for the rear.  

Best of luck,

JohnMc