Land Rover Repair: Discovery Rear Latch & Clock Problems, discovery series ii, power door locks

Question
John, we are the proud new owners of a used 2000 Discovery Series II.  After a month of ownership, we're very pleased with the exception of two things:

1.  The rear door latch will not unlock.  We can use our keyless entry system to lock the door, and our power door locks work, but nothing seems to UN-lock the door.  Our normal remedy is to climb over the rear seats and do it manually.  I don't believe it's a fuse because all the other doors work properly.  Do you have any suggestion?

2.  Our clock's light has burned out, so we cannot see the time at night.  Is there a light bulb or something that I can replace?

Any help that you can offer is much appreciated.  Thanks.  

Answer
Hi Dave,

I wish you well with your 2000 Disco.  Its a fine 4x4 and I'm sure you'll enjoy it.  LR tradition is to give your Disco a name.  Ours is "Simba".  A friend of ours calls her Disco "Spot" 'cause it keeps spraying its scent in her driveway (you and I would call it a small oil leak!)

Remember, LandRovers don't leak oil, they leave a scent for others to follow!

Concern #1:  this is a very common problem.  The rear door has numerous faults, one of them is the latch system used.  You'll can either have a LR dealer replace the latch system for about $400; attempt to repair it yourself; learn to live with diving over the back seat to unlock and open the $#%^@ door.

If you choose the second solution, you'll have to carefully remove the subwoofer speakers, door panelling, and then inspect and investigate the cause of the problem.  Some Disco's have a small spring that is worn out.  Some older writing pens have a small spring that is a good replacement.  

There are other problems with that rear door:  its too heavy; fine particles af dust and dirt enter into the key lock and can ruin it!  Keep the door and all moving parts lubricated.

Concern #2:  The clock can be removed by using two flat credit cards or very thin rulers. Gently, remove the coin tray first by pulling out.  The clock comes out with two credit cards slid in top and bottom (After removing the switches/Switch block (cruise) underneath)

Bulb is a twist fit in the rear. Part No is LBAU5311L cost 7$ or so.  

The bulb and assembly that holds it in can be replaced.

Best of luck,

JohnMc