QuestionI purchased my 1998 disco one week ago and already problems! Today after leaving my home, I put it in park for a stop. It wouldn't go back in gear. The brake lights quit and ABS light came on. I think it may be the brake light switch, but I don't want to overlook a bigger problem. I live in a rural area with no dealer close by, but I have a good local mechanic willing to do the work. Any suggestions on what else to look at? Thanks..
AnswerHi Lee,
I understand your position. I too live in a rural area and can appreciate your position quite well.
It is very possible that a bulb holder is shorting out and causing your trouble. I always suspected the immobiliser 'spider' that controls many functions including security and ignition control. A fellow Disco owner found that one of the rear lights (bumper?) had shorted out several times. On closer inspection, the bulb holder was rusted and shorting out.
Inspect ALL your lights and determine if the wires are loose or crossed. Look for rust inside and out. Even if the bulb appear to work, take a look anyway.
I hope its as simple as this, otherwise, you'll need the expertise of a LR dealer. It has been said that the 'spider' soldering can crack and cause shorting. Resoldering the connections has fixed most troubles. However, the spider is located up under the dashboard centre and there is lots of work to remove this. If you are up to the challenge...go for it. While the centre console is apart, replace any bulbs that have burnt out.
Best of luck,
JohnMc
NB: you should be able to find replacement bulbs for your Disco at most auto parts stores.
