Land Rover Repair: 01 Discovery Hesitating, land rover discovery, carbon buildup

Question
John,
I have a 2001 Land Rover Discovery V8.  My problem lately has been that the car is hesitating.  At times it feels like it is going to stall.  It is particarly bad when I am going up a large hill or accelerating from a stop.  My car is luckily under warranty so the first thing they replaced is the fuel pump.  That didn't solve the problem.  Finally the dealership put in a new transmission.  It has been about a week since my new transmission and it has started acting up again.  This problem starts small then gets worse over the course of a few weeks.  The dealership is stumped as well as I.  I know my battery is getting close to needing to be replaced so I'm not sure if this would have anything to do with it.

Thanks,
Melissa

Answer
Hi Melissa,

it could be exhaust valves.  Here's a website that discusses the problem :

I doubt it your battery.  You can have your alternator and coilpack bench tested just in case.  

http://www.robisonservice.com/servicedep/pdfs/carbon_fouling2.pdf

In essence, carbon buildup is preventing your engine from running effectively.  Powerloss and hesitation are the main symptoms and is most noted on hot, humid days, climbing hills or stop and go traffic.

Have the dealership test for sticking exhaust valves.  The idle control and TPS sensor can also be tested.  Don't let this problem 'slip away' from you...once the warranty is over, you can bet the dealership will stick you with the bill BIG TIME.  Get as much service done under warranty because afterwards the cost of repair will make you take out a 2nd mortgage.

Best of luck,

JohnMc