2020 Land Rover Defender 110 Has A Check Engine Light

Resolve Check Engine Light in 2020 Land Rover Defender 110 with Key Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
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60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2020 Land Rover Defender 110 has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2020 Land Rover Defender 110 has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2020 Land Rover Defender 110?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2020 Land Rover Defender 110, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the underlying issue. Start by visually inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the warning light. Next, pay attention to any additional dashboard indicators or messages that may offer further insights into the problem. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step; by connecting it to your vehicle's onboard diagnostic system, you can retrieve specific error codes that will guide you toward the exact issue. Additionally, take note of any unusual symptoms your vehicle may be exhibiting, such as rough idling or decreased performance, as these details can be invaluable in diagnosing the problem. Don't forget to consult your owner's manual for specific guidance related to the check engine light, which can provide context for the codes you retrieve. If these initial steps do not lead to a resolution, or if the problem appears to be more complex, seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or dealership is advisable to ensure your vehicle receives the proper care it needs. By following this structured approach, you can effectively troubleshoot the check engine light and take the first steps toward resolving the issue.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2020 Land Rover Defender 110?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2020 Land Rover Defender 110, it can signal a range of common issues that are often manageable for DIY enthusiasts. One of the simplest problems to check is a loose gas cap, which can easily be tightened or replaced if damaged. Another frequent culprit is a faulty oxygen sensor, which can affect fuel efficiency and may require a replacement if diagnosed. Additionally, issues with the catalytic converter can lead to significant performance problems, and while this may be more complex to address, understanding its role can help in troubleshooting. The mass airflow sensor is another critical component; if it malfunctions, it can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to engine performance issues. Spark plug problems, such as wear or damage, can cause misfires, triggering the check engine light as well. Lastly, an engine misfire, which can stem from various ignition or fuel system issues, is a serious concern that should be investigated promptly. By being aware of these common problems, DIYers can take initial steps to diagnose and potentially resolve the issues before seeking professional assistance.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light on a 2020 Land Rover Defender 110?

When the check engine light illuminates on your 2020 Land Rover Defender 110, it is crucial to take immediate action rather than dismissing it as a minor inconvenience. This warning light is a vital indicator of potential issues within your vehicle's engine or emissions system, which can range from simple fixes to serious malfunctions that may compromise your vehicle's safety and performance. Ignoring the check engine light can lead to exacerbated problems, resulting in costly repairs and diminished fuel efficiency. Moreover, some underlying issues may pose safety risks, making it imperative to diagnose and resolve them promptly. By addressing the check engine light as soon as it appears, you not only safeguard your vehicle's integrity but also ensure a smoother, more efficient driving experience. Therefore, if you see that light, don’t wait—take the necessary steps to investigate and rectify the issue to maintain your Land Rover Defender's optimal condition.

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