When should a Range Rover’s timing belt be replaced?

As a Land Rover enthusiast and owner of several Range Rover models, I have a lot of experience with the well-known propensity for these vehicles to experience reliability issues.

One of the most crucial aspects of maintaining a Range Rover is knowing when to replace the timing belt.

In this article, we will look at the signs and symptoms that indicate a need for replacement, what can happen if it’s not replaced, and how to replace it properly.

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, a Range Rover’s timing belt should be replaced every 60,000 miles.

However, it’s essential to check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations based on your specific vehicle model.

Signs and symptoms it’s time for a replacement

1. The engine won’t start or is difficult to start.
2. The engine misfires or runs roughly.
3. The engine makes unusual noises, such as a ticking sound or grinding noise.
4. The engine stalls or hesitates.
5. Oil leaks from the timing belt area.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to have your timing belt inspected. It’s better to be safe than sorry, as a broken timing belt can cause significant engine damage.

List of related OBD codes

A faulty timing belt can trigger several OBD codes. These include:

• P0011: Camshaft position – timing over-advanced or system performance (Bank 1)
• P0016: Camshaft/crankshaft position correlation – bank 1, sensor A
• P0017: Camshaft/crankshaft position correlation – bank 1, sensor B
• P0018: Camshaft position, timing over-retarded (Bank 2)
• P0019: Camshaft/crankshaft position correlation – bank 2, sensor A
• P0021: Camshaft position, timing over-advanced (Bank 2)
• P0022: Camshaft position, timing over-retarded (Bank 2)

If you encounter any of these codes, it’s essential to have your Range Rover inspected immediately.

What can happen if not replaced

If you ignore the symptoms and fail to replace your timing belt when necessary, it can lead to catastrophic engine failure.

The timing belt keeps the engine’s internal components in sync, such as the pistons, valves, and crankshaft.

Without a functioning timing belt, the engine will lose timing, and cause a piston-to-valve collision, or bent valves.

Worst-case scenarios include total engine destruction, which can be incredibly expensive to repair.

Can it be replaced without a mechanic?

Replacing the timing belt requires advanced mechanical skills and a long list of specialized tools.

It’s not recommended for the average DIY mechanic; instead, I highly recommend consulting with a trusted Range Rover mechanic to perform this task.

Parts you’ll need to replace it

• Timing belt
• Tensioner
• Idler pulleys
• Water pump

Tools you’ll need to replace it

• Socket set
• Timing belt tensioner tool
• Torque wrench
• Camshaft locking tool
• Crankshaft locking tool
• Seal puller

How to replace it

1. Disconnect the battery
2. Remove the drive belt and the accessories
3. Lock the camshaft and crankshaft in position using locking tools
4. Remove the old timing belt
5. Install a new tensioner and idler pulleys
6. Set the new timing belt in place
7. Adjust the timing belt’s tension and rotation direction
8. Reinstall the drive belt and accessories
9. Confirm the engine’s timing and the belt’s installer rotation are correct
10. Reconnect the battery

Note: this is an overview and not a complete guide. Consult your owner’s manual and a trusted Range Rover mechanic to ensure that you perform this task correctly.

FAQs

Last updated and verified on 4th September 2023