Land Rover Repair: Brakes..., land rover north, mahwah nj

Question
John...

I have a 2002 Discovery 2 with 19k. The problem is with the distance it takes for the brakes to be engaged. We have complained that you have to push the peddle almost to the floor for the brakes to engage, and in some cases, one must pump them. The dealer just installed a new master cylinder with no discernable change. The dealer also said that the pushing distance is common to the Discovery. I had a 2004 loaner and the brakes were firm.

Is this a common issue?

Thanks

Jim

Answer
Hi Jim,

the brake problem you mention with your 02 Disco is NOT common. Early series I Disco's had ABS problems, but your newer Disco should not have any brake problems WHATSOEVER.  Your dealer is giving you a bum steer and may be trying to reduce the cost of warranty repair.

Insist on having this fixed and tell them that you will contact LRNA headquarters if you are not satisfied.

Imagine, to haggle over something as serious as brakes!  Of course you are absolutely right...the brakes are the most important safety feature on your Disco.  Many, many years ago, when I bought my '95 Disco, I was once told that due to the weight of the Disco, the brakes have to be well maintained.  Due to the weight, the stopping distance and reaction time is much shorter.  

Sounds like there is still a master cyl. problem - pumping brakes is a clear sign. Air trapped in the lines can cause this too.

While you still have a warranty, hound this dealer until you are absolutely satisfied.  IF NOT, contact:

Land Rover North America
Attn:  Customer Relationship Center
555 MacArthur Blvd.
Mahwah, NJ  07430

1-800-637-6837

...and raise your voice! The safety of you and your family is that important!  To have a dealer squabble over brake repair is terrible - lets hope its not tragic.

Best of luck, Jim.  

JohnMc