When should a Range Rover’s camshaft be replaced?

As a Range Rover owner and mechanic, I’m all too familiar with the well-known reliability issues associated with these vehicles.

But when it comes to serious mechanical problems, such as camshaft failure, it’s important to know when to take action and replace this crucial component.

So, when should a Range Rover’s camshaft be replaced? Let’s dive in.

What models are affected?

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

When to replace

In general, it’s recommended to replace a Range Rover’s camshaft every 100,000 miles.

However, this can vary depending on a number of factors, including driving style, climate, and maintenance history.

It’s important to keep an eye out for signs that your camshaft may need replacement and take action proactively to prevent further damage to your engine.

Signs and symptoms

There are a variety of signs and symptoms that can indicate it’s time to replace your Range Rover’s camshaft. These can include:

• Loud ticking or knocking sounds coming from the engine
• A decrease in engine power
• Poor fuel efficiency
• Difficulty starting the vehicle
• Engine misfires or hesitation
• Check the engine light appearing on the dashboard

List of related OBD codes

Some OBD codes related to camshaft failure in Range Rovers include:

• P0340 – Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction
• P0344 – Camshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Intermittent (Bank 1 or Single Sensor)
• P0345 – Camshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Bank 2
• P0349 – Camshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Intermittent (Bank 2)

What can happen if not replaced

If a Range Rover’s camshaft is not replaced when it needs to be, it can cause serious damage to the engine. This can include:

• Damage to the valves, pistons, and cylinder walls
• Friction between moving parts that leads to increased wear and tear
• A decrease in engine performance and efficiency
• Engine failure and the need for a complete engine replacement

Can it be replaced without a mechanic?

While replacing a camshaft is a complex task and typically requires a skilled mechanic, it is technically possible to replace it yourself if you have the necessary knowledge and tools.

However, it’s highly recommended to have it done by a professional to ensure proper installation and prevent further damage to the engine.

Parts you’ll need to replace it

To replace a Range Rover’s camshaft, you will need the following parts:

• New camshaft
• Camshaft bearings
• Gaskets and seals
• Timing chain or belt

Tools you’ll need to replace it

You’ll also need the following tools to replace your Range Rover’s camshaft:

• Socket set
• Wrenches
• Timing chain or belt tools
• Torque wrench
• Camshaft alignment tool

How to replace it

Here’s a step-by-step guide to replacing a Range Rover’s camshaft:

1. Remove the engine cover and disconnect the battery.
2. Drain the oil from the engine and remove the sump.
3. Remove the timing chain or belt and disconnect the camshaft position sensor.
4. Remove the camshaft retainer bolts and lift out the camshaft.
5. Clean all mating surfaces and inspect the new camshaft for damage.
6. Insert the new camshaft and torque to factory specifications.
7. Install new camshaft bearings and any required gaskets and seals.
8. Reinstall the timing chain or belt according to manufacturer specifications.
9. Reconnect the camshaft position sensor and fill the engine with fresh oil.
10. Reconnect the battery and start the engine to test for proper operation.

FAQs

 

Last updated and verified on 4th September 2023