Land Rover Repair: auto-transmission leak, automatic transmission fluid, gasket repair

Question
We just bought a 97 Discovery 1.  There is a small leak of the automatic transmission fluid.
Where should we start looking for the culprit of this problem?
Thanks,
Deb


Answer
Hi Deb,

congrats on the Disco I purchase.*

It could be a simple transmission gasket repair. You can either go to a local Jiffy lube (in North America) and ask if they can change your transmission fluid or visit your local LR dealership.

I would suggest you go to the dealership and have them change ALL your fluids. Its expensive but it will give you peace of mind knowing that your NEW Disco is starting its life with you on a good footing.  About $300US for this.

Otherwise, have the LR dealership change only the transmission fluid.  A new gasket is always used and LR knows what to look for when it performs this fluid change.

Word of warning:  some dealers (no matter what make of vehicle) have been known to boost the repair bill by pointing out problems and asking you to repair them too!  Don't be caught up in this.  I once went to a dealership and they were very glad to point out all the repairs that I had to have performed.  HOWEVER, the $7000 estimate gave me one huge headache.  

When you go to your local dealership, and you should, ask for a report on all the work that was performed on your NEW Disco.  They may be able to tell you all work that has been done, what components have been replaced, what recalls have been performed and even update your vehicle maintenance booklet with the appropriate stamps/verifications.  

Its important to introduce yourself to the dealership.  Make sure they have your ownership information in order to keep you aware of recalls and service reminders or specials.  

So...I hope its only a gasket leak.  Should be easy to fix.  

*Lastly, there is a long-standing tradition that new owners give their Land Rover a name.  When we bought our Disco, the movie "Lion King" was released.  My young son promptly named our Disco "Simba" because our tire cover has a huge profile of a male lion on it.  Also, as you drive, most LR owners recognize each other by a nod or a wave.

So give a wave the next time you see a Land Rover...it could be me waving back to you!

Regards and best of luck,

JohnMc