Discovery II (m) & (s) - another

[geoffc]

When my 2001 Disco II TD5 hit 80,000km, the transmission started doing something strange. It would seem to loose drive momentarily. Usually not under heavier accelleration, but during light accceleration or cruise.

Once, the (M) & (S) lights came on, The truck went into Limp-home modie. Turned off for a minute or so seemed to clear this.

I took it to the dealer. Basically they said "the transmission is stufffed, and needs to be replaced". The truck was just past its 3 year warranty. The dealer contacted LandRover Australia, who agreed to cover 75% of the cost of replacement. I had to put in AUD$950. I paid it and didnt expect any more problems.

30,000km later, the car is at the dealer again today with exactly the same problem. And the same response. (Although the dealer has submitted a tech report to LRA, and awaiting a response, so not sure what they will do or offer this time, if anything). The vehicle is now 5 1/2 years old. The dealer has told me the transmission is "burned out" (the electrics in it are burned out - apparently)

Unfortunately I have done almost no off road driving since the new box went in. So, it has had a very sedate on-road 30,000km (~18,000 miles).

I am really really surpised at not just one failure at 80,000, but the second failure at 30,000km. (My Cooper Tyres, fitted at 80,000km have lasted longer than the transmission - with a guaranteee of 60,000km min!!)

Does anyone have any similar transmission experience with the Disco-II TD5?
Any insight as to the 'real' cause?, or is it just a lousy transmission (it works great/smooth otherwise with no other problems).


cheers,
--geoff Brisbane/Australia

 

[joey]

I know it isn't a TD5 response, but on the D2 when this issue happens it is generally an electrical problem... more than likely battery, alternator or bad ground. The transmission is usually not this issue.

 

[geoffc]

Well, the dealer came back to me today, and after talking to LRA, they again offered to cover 75% of the cost of replacing the transmission a second time. The dealer has told me that the fault is nothing mechanical, or wear related - so while the 75% is a reasonable offer, for the first occurence, I am not really satisfied that I am being hit for this again. Is it going to happen every 30,000km? (two new transmissions per set of tyres?).

I have now spoken with LRA's customer care, and am expecting a call from the Assistant General Manager.

Thanks for the reply Joey. The battery is < 6months old, and the alternator seems to be working ok (no problems there). Grounding? Would the dealer not have picked up on this? I would hope so.

 

[joey]

I would hope the dealer would notice a ground issue, again my info is based off of a petrol version... I can only wish to have a TD5 in my Disco... USA = No TD5 unless I want to pay big buck to retrofit.