2016 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Has Rough Idle

Fix Rough Idle in 2016 Land Rover Range Rover Sport for a Smoother Ride

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
21% chance it's the
Spark Plugs
0%
15% chance it's the
Ignition Coil
0%
64% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2016 Land Rover Range Rover Sport has rough idle are a vacuum leak, an issue with the spark plugs, or a problem with the ignition coil.
  • Spark Plugs: Worn or fouled spark plugs can lead to misfires, poor fuel economy, and difficulty starting the engine.
  • Ignition Coil: A faulty ignition coil can cause misfires, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine due to inadequate spark delivery to the spark plugs.
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 2016 Land Rover Range Rover Sport has rough idle?

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.

Brake caliper failure occurs in two different ways, and they create different symptoms.

The caliper can become stuck, in which case it won't release the brake pads. The seized caliper will cause the vehicle to brake constantly on one side, forcing the car to move toward that side. This pulling will be accompanied by a strong odor from one wheel.

Another way calipers fail is by leaking. If the caliper leaks, the brake pedal will feel too easy to push, and will sink all the way to the floor when held. Braking will become less effective the longer this goes on. There may also be brake fluid leaking onto the wheel.

Here are a few common symptoms of worn-out brake pads:

  1. Low brake pad warning light is on: Not all vehicles are equipped with this system, but if yours is, this dashboard indicator light will likely be the first signal it’s time to replace your brake pads.
  2. Brakes start to squeal regularly: This is often one of the first signs of worn brake pads and is caused by a metallic piece built into brake pads for this exact purpose. This part contacts the brake rotor to make a squealing or whining noise when the pads are low.
  3. Brakes make loud grinding noise: If not addressed early enough, your brake pads may get so worn that the metal backing plate of the pad grinds against the metal rotor.
  4. Brake pads look thin: You may be able to visually check your brake pad thickness to determine if they need replacement.

Brake rotors are mainly maintenance free, but when they have been subjected to abnormally hard use, the heat they absorb can cause the metal to turn blue, and cracking to occur. When this occurs, customers often specify they have lost braking power, or the vehicle's brakes are making noise. There may be no symptoms at all related to changing the brake rotors, since it is recommended to change brake rotors on most modern vehicles when performing a standard brake service.

Most often, a brake system inspection will just be a routine portion of manufacturer specified maintenance, and will be performed at mileage intervals. In those cases, there will likely be no symptoms. However, when a brake system makes a funny noise, causes vibration, is hard to use, will not slow the vehicle, prevents the vehicle from driving, makes the vehicle pull to one side, or leaks brake fluid, the vehicle will need a visit dedicated to the inspection of the brake system.

What are the steps to diagnose a rough idle in a 2016 Land Rover Range Rover Sport?

To effectively diagnose a rough idle in your 2016 Land Rover Range Rover Sport, start by utilizing a diagnostic tool to check for any error codes that may indicate specific issues, such as problems with the oxygen sensor or fuel system. Monitoring live values, including fuel trims and oxygen sensor readings, is crucial; abnormal readings can point to vacuum leaks or fuel delivery problems. Next, inspect the vacuum system for leaks, as these can lead to a lean air-fuel mixture, exacerbating idle issues. Don’t overlook the condition of your spark plugs, as worn plugs can cause misfires that contribute to rough idling. Additionally, assess the fuel injectors for clogs and consider cleaning them if necessary. Cleaning the throttle body and Mass Airflow (MAF) sensor is also important, as dirt can hinder engine performance. Investigate the EGR valve and intake VCT actuator for any malfunctions, and ensure that fuel pressure is within the recommended range to rule out fuel pump issues. A thorough visual inspection for black exhaust emissions and conducting a cold start test can provide further insights into the problem. If these steps do not resolve the rough idle, seeking professional assistance may be necessary for a more comprehensive diagnosis.

What are the common causes of a rough idle in a 2016 Land Rover Range Rover Sport?

When experiencing a rough idle in your 2016 Land Rover Range Rover Sport, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is vacuum leaks, which can disrupt the air-fuel mixture and lead to performance issues. Inspecting vacuum hoses for wear and tear can help identify any leaks that may be affecting engine performance. Additionally, worn or faulty spark plugs can cause inconsistent ignition, resulting in micro-misfires that manifest as a rough idle. Regularly checking and replacing spark plugs can significantly improve engine smoothness. Clogged fuel injectors are another frequent issue, as they can restrict fuel flow and create a lean mixture, leading to rough idling and increased fuel consumption. Cleaning or replacing these injectors can restore proper function. Furthermore, a defective fuel pump or clogged fuel filter can hinder fuel delivery, causing sputtering and rough idling. Ensuring these components are in good condition is crucial for optimal engine performance. Lastly, don't overlook the importance of the mass airflow sensor and the EGR valve; both can significantly impact the air-fuel ratio and idle quality if they are dirty or malfunctioning. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can effectively diagnose and address the rough idle issue in their Range Rover Sport.

How urgent is it to address the rough idle in my 2016 Land Rover Range Rover Sport?

Addressing a rough idle in your 2016 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this symptom can lead to a cascade of more severe problems, including stalling in traffic, which poses a significant risk to both you and other road users. The rough idle may indicate underlying issues such as vacuum leaks, spark plug malfunctions, or clogged fuel injectors, all of which can compromise your vehicle's performance and reliability. If these problems are left unaddressed, they can escalate, resulting in costly repairs and potentially leaving you stranded. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize a thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and resolve the root cause of the rough idle promptly. Taking action now not only ensures your vehicle operates smoothly but also safeguards your safety on the road.

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