QuestionI own a 2000 Disco series II with 59k miles on it. I had the brakes replaced recently and did not get the brakes replaced at the Land Roverdealer. The brakes are seem to work ok but the ABS and traction control lights are still on. Actually, when I'm making a U turn and use the brakes, it makes a weird noise and the braking makes the car jerk a bit.
I just had the oil changed a few days ago. I was in a hurry so I went to one of those fast oil changing places. They noted in my receipt that my car has an excessive oil and excessive transmission leak. I check my cars for leaks on the ground ever since I purchased it and have never, ever seen any kind of leaks. Should I check for leaks elsewhere or were the people that changed my oil just incompetent?
AnswerHi Rich,
ABS problems are common with Land Rover's. Could be ABS sensor faults, wiring, ABS modulator faults. A LR testbook found at dealer could locate the problem quickly for you. With the ABS kicking in on turns, I'd stop at your local LR dealer and have it repaired.
As for fluid leaks, again this is a common problem. The most common leaks are found with the lines connected to the radiator. The oil and tranny fluid tends to spray back onto the bottom of the engine and Disco and may not drip down onto your asphalted driveway. Another common leak is the oil sump (oil pan) and oil filter. Transfer gearbox can leak too.
New hoses are expensive and if it gets to be a real problem you should change them. Watch your fluid levels and consider having you sump, tranny and gearbox gaskets 'n seals redone the next time you change your oil.
As far the Jiffy Lube stations, they do a good job. Watch them and prevent them from using hydraulic tools whenever they are changing ANY fluids on your Disco. They should only be using ratchets and wrenches when changing fluids, otherwise you'll be paying big bucks at the LR dealership for a new oil sump, tranny or gearbox.
Hope this helps,
JohnMc
NB: One owner once wrote, "Disco's don't leak! They mark their territory."
