Land Rover Repair: ABS/HDC/SL Warnings all on, independent repairer, class action suit


Question
My '99 Discovery 2 has been plagued with all the warning lights coming on (ABS/HDC/Self Levelling/TCTRL)- 6 in all since new. Main dealer has replaced the SLABS ECU, the ABS modulator and numerous other parts at my expense, all to no avail. An independent repairer has found that although testbook indicates an ABS modulator problem - it isn't! - a new one didn't cure it The problem can sometimes be temporarily cured by "poking around" the under bonnet fusebox area - but always comes back again within a few months, with no identifiable cause! I'm reluctant to spend £150 on a replacement fusebox, that can't be guaranteed to fix the problem. - Any suggestions (apart from the scrapheap!  

Answer
Hi Bob,

its a shame that your '99 Disco is plagued with this problem.  Of all the Disco's, the '99 is my favourite.  

The problem you describe is quite common.  Yes, sometimes its the modulator, sometimes a wheel sensor, sometimes the shutter valve.  On Rangies, it sometimes can be the seals.  Here's a website that raises this issue:

http://www.rangerovers.net/repairdetails/abs.html

It may be on older LR's BUT I have a suspicion that the technology has not changed since first implemented.  Could be an old problem that's been carried forward for many years.

BTW, its a first that the engine fuse box could be the source.  The real cause, of course, is poor design, IMO.

I use to call this problem "the 3 amigos:  ABS, TC, HDC".  When these guys show up...they never leave!  In your case, looks like they brought along their wives!

All that work and on your tab...strange how these problems never surface while under warranty.  A fellow in the US has started a class action suit...he's that frustrated.

Meanwhile, we are at the mercy of the local LR testbook and technician.  Check out that site I mentioned...lots of background info that might help.

Best of luck,

JohnMc