Range Rover engine system fault – common problems

An engine system fault can be caused by a variety of issues, including a faulty ECM or PCM, wiring issues, failed sensors, and failed actuators. If the error hasn’t been displayed on the dashboard, some signs of a failing engine system are poor engine performance and engine stalling.

As an experienced Range Rover owner, I’ve had my fair share of engine troubles. One of the most common issues I’ve come across is the engine system fault.

Read on to see the usual signs, OBD codes and symptoms of an engine system fault, as well as some of the most likely causes, and how you can fix it without a mechanic.

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 of engine system fault

• Poor engine performance
• Engine stalling
• Warning light on the dashboard

What OBD codes show engine system fault on a Range Rover?

OBD codes that may indicate engine system fault on a Range Rover include:

• P0010: “A” Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1)
• P0011: “A” Camshaft Position – Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1)
• P0020: “A” Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 2)
• P0021: “A” Camshaft Position – Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 2)
• P0171: Fuel Trim System Lean (Bank 1)
• P0172: Fuel Trim System Rich (Bank 1)
• P0300: Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
• P0301: Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected
• P0302: Cylinder 2 Misfire Detected
• P0303: Cylinder 3 Misfire Detected
• P0304: Cylinder 4 Misfire Detected
• P0305: Cylinder 5 Misfire Detected
• P0306: Cylinder 6 Misfire Detected
• P0340: Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction
• P0341: Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
• P0342: Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Low Input
• P0343: Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit High Input
• P0344: Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Intermittent
• P0420: Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)
• P0430: Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 2)
• P1300: Ignition Coil Circuit Malfunction
• P1301: Ignition Coil Circuit Malfunction (Cylinder 1)
• P1302: Ignition Coil Circuit Malfunction (Cylinder 2)
• P1303: Ignition Coil Circuit Malfunction (Cylinder 3)
• P1304: Ignition Coil Circuit Malfunction (Cylinder 4)
• P1305: Ignition Coil Circuit Malfunction (Cylinder 5)
• P1306: Ignition Coil Circuit Malfunction (Cylinder 6)
• P1550: Throttle Actuator Control Motor Relay Circuit Malfunction
• P1551: Throttle Actuator Control Motor Relay Circuit Range/Performance
• P1552: Throttle Actuator Control Motor Relay Circuit Low
• P1553: Throttle Actuator Control Motor Relay Circuit High
• P1554: Throttle Actuator Control Motor Relay Circuit Intermittent

The Range Rover has tonnes of sensors, probably more than you could ever imagine.

You are best plugging the OBD scanner in, and finding the code, and you can verify the error code on our Range Rover OBD code list.

Buying guide: Best Land Rover OBD2 scanner tools

Most likely causes of an engine system fault error code

• Faulty ECM or PCM
• Wiring issues
• Failed sensors
• Failed actuators

Can it be fixed without a mechanic?

In many cases, yes. However, it’s important to note that some engine system faults may require professional diagnosis and repair.

Parts you’ll need

• ECM or PCM (depending on the issue)
• Sensors
• Actuators
• Wiring

Tools you’ll need

• OBD scanner
• Multimeter
• Wiring diagrams
• Basic hand tools (screwdrivers, pliers, etc.)

How to fix it

1. Use an OBD scanner to diagnose the issue and retrieve the OBD codes
2. Check wiring and connections for damage or loose connections
3. Replace any faulty sensors or actuators
4. Replace the ECM or PCM if necessary

Potential other alternative causes

Failed catalytic converter

A failed catalytic converter can cause the engine system to malfunction.

The catalytic converter is responsible for converting harmful pollutants in exhaust gases into less harmful compounds before they are released into the atmosphere.

When the catalytic converter is not functioning properly, it can cause an increase in emissions and can cause the “check engine” light to come on.

The engine may also run poorly or stall as the converter can create a restriction in the exhaust system, which can cause the engine to run lean, resulting in poor performance and potential damage to the engine.

Clogged fuel injectors

Clogged fuel injectors can cause a variety of engine system issues.

The fuel injectors are responsible for delivering the correct amount of fuel to the engine.

When they are clogged, they can cause the engine to run lean (not enough fuel) or rich (too much fuel).

This can lead to poor engine performance, stalling, and even damage to the engine.

Clogged fuel injectors can cause the “check engine” light to come on and may also trigger diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Low compression in one or more cylinders

Low compression in one or more cylinders can cause engine system issues.

Compression is necessary for the engine to function properly. If there is low compression in one or more cylinders, it can cause a loss of power, poor engine performance, and even stalling or cutting out when driving.

Low compression can cause the “check engine” light to come on and may also trigger diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

If the low compression is caused by a damaged or worn piston or cylinder, it can lead to severe engine damage if not addressed quickly.

FAQs

Summary

The Range Rover engine system fault is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of issues, including faulty ECM or PCM, wiring issues, failed sensors, and failed actuators.

It’s important to diagnose the issue using an OBD scanner and use wiring diagrams to check connections and replace any faulty parts.

In many cases, the issue can be fixed without a mechanic.

Last updated and verified on 6th September 2023