2018 Land Rover Discovery Has A Check Engine Light

Check Engine Light On in 2018 Land Rover Discovery: Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2018 Land Rover Discovery 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 2018 Land Rover Discovery 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 steps should I take to diagnose the check engine light on my 2018 Land Rover Discovery?

To effectively diagnose the check engine light on your 2018 Land Rover Discovery, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking for any additional warning lights on the dashboard, as these can provide valuable insights into the underlying issue. Next, inspect the gas cap to ensure it is securely tightened, as a loose cap is a common trigger for the check engine light. Pay attention to any unusual noises or odors that may arise while driving, as these can indicate specific problems that need addressing. Investing in a diagnostic scanner can be a game-changer, allowing you to read the error codes stored in your vehicle's computer system, which can pinpoint the issue more accurately. Additionally, consulting your owner's manual can offer guidance on what the check engine light signifies and how to interpret the codes. If these steps do not lead to a resolution, it may be wise to visit a qualified mechanic for a thorough inspection and diagnosis, ensuring that any potential issues are addressed promptly and effectively. By following this structured approach, you can confidently tackle the check engine light and maintain the performance of your Land Rover Discovery.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2018 Land Rover Discovery?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2018 Land Rover Discovery, it can be a source of concern for any DIY car owner. One of the most straightforward issues to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily trigger the light, so ensuring it is secure is a good first step. If the gas cap is fine, the next likely culprit could be the oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in monitoring fuel efficiency. A malfunction here can not only illuminate the check engine light but also lead to increased fuel consumption. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can cause the light to activate, often indicating a failure or inefficiency that needs attention. Another component to consider is the mass airflow sensor, as its malfunction can significantly affect engine performance. Worn-out spark plugs or a faulty ignition coil can also lead to misfires, triggering the check engine light. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to maintain the vehicle's performance and prevent further damage, making it advisable to consult a qualified mechanic for a thorough diagnosis if the light remains illuminated after checking these common problems.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2018 Land Rover Discovery?

Addressing the check engine light in a 2018 Land Rover Discovery is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's performance and safety. This warning light can indicate a range of issues, from minor sensor malfunctions to serious engine problems that could compromise the vehicle's reliability. Ignoring the check engine light not only risks escalating the problem, leading to more extensive and costly repairs, but it can also affect fuel efficiency and overall driving experience. For DIY enthusiasts, conducting a diagnostic test as soon as the light illuminates is essential; it allows you to identify the specific issue before it worsens. By taking prompt action, you can ensure your Land Rover remains in optimal condition, safeguarding both your investment and your safety on the road.

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