As a Range Rover owner for years, I have had a fair share of issues with the car. One of the issues I had to grapple with was the Range Rover transmission failure warning light.
This warning light can be scary when it comes on, especially when you are driving. It is essential to understand the signs and symptoms of the transmission failure warning light, possible codes, and common causes to fix the problem promptly.
In this guide, I will provide you with all the information you need to diagnose and fix the transmission issue.
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
One of the primary signs that your Range Rover may have transmission issues is the warning light. The transmission warning light indicates that there might be a problem with the transmission to the car’s onboard computer system.
Usually, other signs and symptoms accompany this warning light, such as difficulty shifting the gears, hesitation while accelerating, and grinding noises.
List of possible OBD codes
If you run a diagnostic, you are likely to come across several codes that may cause the Range Rover transmission failure warning light to come on.
Here are some of the possible codes.
- P0730 – Incorrect Gear Ratio
- P0731 – Gear 1 Incorrect Ratio
- P0732 – Gear 2 Incorrect Ratio
- P0733 – Gear 3 Incorrect Ratio
- P0734 – Gear 4 Incorrect Ratio
- P0735 – Gear 5 Incorrect Ratio
- P0736 – Reverse Incorrect Ratio
Common causes
Several things may cause the Range Rover transmission failure warning light to come on.
Here are some of the common causes.
- Low transmission fluid levels
- Transmission fluid leaks
- Faulty transmission control module (TCM)
- Worn-out transmission solenoids
- Failing transmission fluid pump
- Worn-out mechatronics adapter pan and seals
Can it be fixed without a mechanic?
If you are savvy with fixing transmission issues, you can fix the problem yourself without visiting a mechanic.
However, you must have experience working with transmission parts and be familiar with the specific Range Rover model.
Parts you’ll need to fix it
Before embarking on repairing the transmission, you must have the necessary parts.
Here is a list of parts you will need to fix the issues.
- Transmission fluid
- Transmission filter
- Transmission Pan and Gasket
- Mechatronics Adapter Pan and Seals
- Transmission Solenoids
- Transmission Control Module (TCM)
Tools you’ll need to fix it
Apart from the parts, you will require specific tools to repair your transmission.
Here is a list of tools you require.
- Wrench set
- Ratchet and Socket set
- Floor jack
- Torque wrench
- Transmission fluid drain pan
- Transmission fluid funnel
- Transmission fluid pump
- Car jack stands
How to fix it
Now that you have the parts and tools let’s dive into the step-by-step process of fixing the transmission.
- First, park the Range Rover on a leveled surface and apply the parking brake.
- Remove the transmission fluid dipstick and put a drain pan underneath it.
- Using your wrench or socket set, remove all the bolts on the transmission pan and remove the pan.
- Remove the magnet on the transmission pan and clean it thoroughly.
- Remove the old transmission filter and discard it to make room for a new one.
- Install the new transmission filter.
- Replace the transmission pan and gasket and tighten the bolts to the recommended torque specifications.
- Remove the mechatronics adapter pan and seals. Clean them thoroughly and replace them with new ones.
- Install new transmission solenoids.
- Replace the transmission fluid with the appropriate type and amount.
- Put back the transmission fluid dipstick and start the engine to check the levels.
Potential alternative causes
Other issues may cause transmission problems, leading to the warning light coming on.
Here are some of the alternative causes to check if the issue persists.
- Failing torque converter
- Worn-out transmission gear bushings
- Faulty transmission software
FAQs
What should I do if my Range Rover transmission failure warning light comes on?
If the warning light comes on, you should immediately pull over and check the transmission fluid levels and follow the troubleshooting guide.
Can I fix the Range Rover transmission failure warning light myself?
If you have experience with fixing transmission parts, you can fix the problem yourself.
How much does it cost to fix the transmission issues on my Range Rover?
The cost of fixing the transmission issue depends on the specific issue. You should take your car to a professional mechanic to get a detailed inspection before looking into repair costs.
Summary
The Range Rover transmission failure warning light can be a nightmare for any driver. However, with this guide, you can identify the warning signs, diagnose the issue with the OBD codes, and fix it yourself with the necessary parts and tools.
If the problem persists, consult a professional mechanic to avoid further damage to your Range Rover.