Land Rover Repair: 96 land rover starting prob., throttle position sensor, land rover dealer

Question
Ok so me and my girlfriend just bought a 96 discovery 1 and we knew it had some problems one was when you start it, it would just turnover for a few sec. then start buy it would only run at 100-200 rpms and if you give it gas it would die, but after you get it stated it will run fine and if you shut it off and start it again it will start with no problems. I have replaced the ignition as it was broke so I replaced the whole assembly on the steering column and after that the problem went away for a day but then came back so I replaced the fuel filter and that was clogged 100% have you ever ran across this problem? If so any help I can get I would like very much because I like this SUV allot.

Answer
Hi Chris,

This sort of problem can be caused by various sensor failures.  It could be the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) or and Idle Air Control Valve.  It could be fouled injectors, a failing MAF (Mass air flow), fuel pump problems or other ignition related problems.

Your best bet is to take your Disco to a Land Rover dealer and have they analyze it on a Testbook diagnostic system.  It should reveal clues to the the mechanic on where the problem lies.  

While you are there, you can register yourself with Land Rover.  If there are any Factory Recalls...like the most recent one with fuel tanks...you would automatically be notified.  I believe you could also see some service work on your Disco that would reveal how well maintained it was by the previous owner.

LandRover can also perform a full inspection of your Disco and list all the possible problems you may have as well as components that will have to be serviced in the near-future.  They charge for this but its worth it.

Lastly, get yourself a Haynes Discovery Repair Manual #3016 for your local auto parts shop.  This book is an inexpensive alternative to the Land Rover Workshop manuals.  Well worth the $30 and its a hardcover edition!

Best of luck,

JohnMc