Range Rover brake problems

As a Range Rover owner, I’ve had my fair share of brake repairs for several years. One thing you become accustomed to is the cost of Range Rover brake replacements!

In this article, I’ll discuss everything you need to know about replacing brake pads on your Range Rover.

What models are affected?

• Land Rover Defender
• Range Rover Discovery
• Range Rover Evoque
• Range Rover Sport
• Range Rover Velar
• Range Rover Vogue

Signs and symptoms

Before getting into the details of brake pad replacement costs, let’s have a look at signs and symptoms that indicate your Range Rover needs new brake pads

. Here are a few things to keep an eye out for:

• Rubbing or grinding noise when you apply the brakes
• Squeaking or squealing while braking
• The brake pedal feels soft or mushy when you press it
• Shaking or pulsating through the steering wheel when you brake
• Warning lights on the dashboard, such as ABS or brake warning lights.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to get your brakes checked as soon as possible.

List of possible OBD codes

If you have a diagnostic tool, it may be helpful to check for any OBD codes related to brake issues.

Some codes that may show up include:

• C1145– Brake Pressure Sensor Circuit Failure
• U0126– Lost Communication With Steering Angle Sensor Module
• U0100– Lost Communication With ECM/PCM “A”
• C1236– Rear Left Wheel Speed Sensor Input Signal Missing
• C1234– Rear Right Wheel Speed Sensor Input Signal Missing

Common causes

Several factors can lead to worn-down brake pads.

Here are the most common causes:

• Normal Wear and Tear: Over time, brake pads wear down, reducing their performance.
• Heavy Usage: Frequent and sudden stops lead to faster brake wear.
• Driving Habits: Constantly braking hard can lead to early brake failure.
• Dirty Brakes: Excessive dirt, grime, and debris can cause damage to brake pads and reduce their effectiveness.
• Rust: The brake rotor’s surface can develop rust, which can cause damage to brake pads.

Can it be fixed without a mechanic?

Replacing the brake pads is not easy, and you may need a mechanic to replace them. However, before you go to a professional, you can determine if you can fix it yourself.

If you’re a mechanical wiz, you can certainly purchase the parts you need and follow some instructions on how to replace them.

However, if you’re not mechanically inclined, it’s better to leave it to the professionals.

Parts you’ll need to fix it

To replace the brake pads on your Range Rover, you’ll need:

• Brake pads
• Brake rotor
• Brake caliper

Make sure to purchase high-quality brake pads and rotors to ensure good stopping power.

Tools you’ll need to fix it

Here are the tools you’ll need to replace the brake pads:

• Jack and Jack stands
• Lug wrench
• Socket set
• C-clamp
• Torque wrench
• Brake cleaner

How to fix it

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to replace brake pads on your Range Rover:

1. Park your car somewhere safe and put it in gear to prevent it from rolling.
2. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you’re replacing the brake pads on.
3. Jack up the car by placing the jack under the jacking point.
4. Remove the wheel and place it aside.
5. Remove the caliper bolts using a socket wrench, and hang the caliper up using a bungee cord.
6. Remove the old brake pads by sliding them out of the caliper bracket.
7. Use a C-clamp to compress the caliper piston completely.
8. Install new brake pads by sliding them into the caliper bracket.
9. Reinstall the caliper, and tighten the bolts to the specified torque.
10. Reinstall the wheel and lug nuts.
11. Tighten the lug nuts using a torque wrench in a star pattern.
12. Repeat the process for other wheels as well.
13. Pump the brake pedal a few times before you start driving to ensure that the brake pads are correctly adjusted.

Potential alternative causes

While worn-out brake pads are the most common cause of brake problems on a Range Rover, several other factors can lead to brake issues.

Here are a few alternative causes to keep in mind:

• Brake Rotor Damage: Damage to brake rotors can cause brake issues.
• Brake Fluid Leaks: Loss of brake fluid can reduce brake performance.
• ABS System Failure: Issues with the Antilock Braking System can cause brake problems.

FAQs

Summary

Replacing the brake pads on your Range Rover takes some effort, but it’s essential to keep them in top condition for your safety.

While the average cost to replace brake pads on a Range Rover is between $300 and $550 per axle, the actual prices may vary depending on several factors.

Last updated and verified on 4th September 2023