Land Rover Repair: LR3 warning lights, transmission control module, coolant level

Question
QUESTION: I have a 2007 LR3 and there has been several weird things happening. My computer flashes a transmission fault, HDC system failure, low coolant level warnings, as well as lowering my suspension and not allowing me to raise it and the alarm honks at crazy times. The amber BRAKE light also comes on, and my brakes were replaced less than a year ago. When I turn the car off for a few minutes, the warnings go away and either come back within a few minutes or a few days. Dealer thinks it may be the battery, but I am concerned. Please let me know what you think it could be. Thanks!

ANSWER: Hi Kristi,

sounds like it could be the battery or perhaps the problem is caused by:

water damage on the transmission control module behind battery - main housing is not waterproof;
brake switch failure - this has been reported to cause mass system failure on LR3's, fix is to replace switch up under dash;
failure within electrical harness to HVAC Control Module;
park/neutral switch failure.

I lean towards the brake switch under dash as other LR3 owners have complained that this simple switch, when it failed, caused all sorts of trouble throughout the vehicle.  These same owners said that recharged battery did not solve the mass fault found, as you describe.

Best of luck,

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for getting back to me! We did replace the battery, which did not solve the problem. Now LR is saying it's a faulty ABS modulator and gave me a quote of $1320 to fix. Does this sound like what it could be? I am hesitant to pay that price and then it not fix the problem. I don't want to just keep "fixing" until we find the actual problem. Thanks so much for your help and advice!

Answer
Hi Kristi,

usually, ABS modulator failure cause a failure I dubbed "the 3 amigos":  HDC, ABS and TC failure.  I've yet to see it cause coolant faults, transmission warnings, suspension failures or alarms.  

IF LR says its the ABS modulator - I am sceptical and would advise caution.  If they are absolutely sure, have them put it in writing that IF it does not repair the fault, they will reimburse you the full amount of the repair.   I've seen dealers 'baiting' owners into all sorts of repairs - hopefully leading to a resolution.

Get a written gaurantee that this will fix the problem otherwise drive to an independent shop for another estimate and evaluation.

Best of luck,
JohnMc