Land Rover Repair: Land Rover lighting, keyless locks, fog light


Question
I bought a '97 discovery I at auction (runs great) now I'm just working on the little things.  First, I need to know is when the parking lights are turned on which ones are suppose to be on...and if the answer is more than "one, front right bumper" what could be the problem...

Background:
-headlights and "red" lights turn on when steering column switch is turned all the way (headlights), see last...

-all hazard "yellow" lights work when the HAZ switch is used.  Also, when the keyless locks are used all "yellow" lights flash...

-this is the most confusing, when the parking or headlights are used.  only the rightfront bumper "yellow" light will come ON?

hope you can help
James

Answer
Hi James,

sorry for the delay...it may be spring outside but I still caught a cold!

The '97 Disco you bought at auction sounds good.  I hope you don't have too much work to do, it can be quite expensive.

Your security system becomes activated when you either use your key fob or when you turn the key in driver's door lock.  Once activated, all the outside lights will flash three times.  Note: if you leave your Disco sitting for 5 minutes without locking the doors, the system is quasi-activated.  Motion and battery disconnect security should become activated.

Parking lights are two in front, two in back.  There are two reflectors on the bumper (depending on year and model of Disco) that are just reflectors...no light behind them.

I always wondered why there was a 'parking light' switch on all vehicles.  I've never used it and would consider it a drain on the battery - but you may think otherwise.  

Rear lights that are activated at night are two on the bumper and two on the rear body.  If you have a built-in fog light system, you should also be able to activate two more rear red lights.

Two front amber lights should also activate with your headlights.  Sidepanel lights should also light up.

Word of caution...if you ever find yourself activating the hazard light system...don't do it for very long.  This has an incredible drain on even the strongest of batteries.  You could quickly find yourself in trouble and unable to re-start your Disco.

Best of luck,

JohnMc

NB:  take your disco to the local LR dealer and have them perform a complete examination.  This may cost you at least $120.  The 90,000 mile service does a complete evaluation and fluid change.  Its very expensive ($400+) but very thorough.

You can ask to have your warranty service booklet updated (or replaced).  The dealer should be able to tell you a complete service record of your disco made by qualified LR mechanics.  Ask for this...it will give you a good idea about how your Disco was maintained.  This is one of the few things LR does for free.

John