Land Rover diesel crankshaft failure

Two Land Rover diesel families are known for crankshaft failure. The 2.2 TD4 and SD4 four-cylinder, used in the Freelander 2, early Range Rover Evoque and early Discovery Sport, and the 2.7 and 3.0 TDV6 and SDV6 V6, used in the Discovery 3 and 4, Range Rover Sport and Range Rover. The crankshaft bearings can spin or wear, and in the worst cases the crank itself breaks.

The usual cause is oil related. Long service intervals, oil that has been diluted by fuel from repeated DPF regenerations, and low oil levels all reduce the protection the bearings rely on. Cars used for lots of short trips are more at risk, because DPF regenerations are often interrupted and extra fuel ends up in the sump.

The first warning is usually a deep knocking or rumbling from the bottom of the engine, sometimes with an oil pressure light. At that point, stopping immediately gives the best chance of a repair. Driving on normally leads to a seized or broken crankshaft, and then the choice is between a rebuild and a replacement engine, both of which are expensive.

We check the oil level and condition, listen to the engine, look at oil pressure and inspect for metal in the oil and filter. If the bearings have failed, we explain the options honestly: a rebuild, a reconditioned engine or a used engine, with the likely cost of each. For cars that are still healthy, we advise on shorter oil change intervals and the right oil to reduce the risk.