2023 Land Rover Defender Maintenance Owners Manual

2023 Land Rover Defender Maintenance

RUNNING-IN

The vehicle is built using high-precision manufacturing methods, but the moving parts of the engine must still settle in relative to each other. The running-in process occurs mainly in the first 3 000 km (2 000 mi) of operation.

During the running-in period of 3 000 km (2 000 mi), observe and follow the instructions below:

Do not fully press the accelerator pedal.
Avoid high engine speeds (rpm) until the engine has reached its full operating temperature.
Avoid operating the engine in too high a gear at low engine speeds (laboring).
Gradually increase engine and road speeds.
Avoid extended operation at high engine speeds with abrupt stops.
Avoid frequent cold starts followed by short-distance driving. Where possible, allow the engine to reach operating temperature.
Longer journeys are more helpful during the running-in period.
Do not participate in off-road driving, competition driving, track days, sports driving schools, or any similar events.

AIR CONDITIONING (A/C)

WARNING
The Air Conditioning (A/C) system must be serviced, dismantled, or replaced by suitably qualified and certified personnel. Make sure that the refrigerant is correctly contained at all times. Failure to adhere to the above may result in serious personal injury or death.

WARNING
All replacement parts for the A/C system must be new and equivalent to the manufacturer’s original equipment. All replacement parts must comply with the relevant local standard. Contact a retailer/authorized repairer for advice. Failure to comply with the standards could lead to serious injury or death.

The A/C system contains HFO-1234yf (R-1234yf), which is a low Global Warming Potential (GWP) tetrafluoro propene refrigerant. The A/C system is sealed and has a leakage rate of less than 3% per year.

The following symbols, relevant to the A/C refrigerant fluid, may be used on under-bonnet labels:

A/C symbol.

Lubricant symbol.

Caution.

Flammable refrigerant.

Required registered technician to service the A/C system.

Consult the Owner’s Handbook.

OWNER MAINTENANCE

CAUTION

Any significant or sudden drop in fluid levels, or uneven tyre wear, should be reported to a qualified technician without delay. Ignoring low fluid levels or uneven tyre wear may cause damage to the vehicle.

In addition to the routine maintenance, a number of simple checks must be carried out more frequently.

DAILY CHECKS

Check the operation of the following every day:

Exterior lights.
Horn.
Direction indicators.
Windscreen wipers.
Windscreen washers.
Warning lamps.
Seat belts.
Braking system.

Also, check for fluid deposits underneath the vehicle that may indicate a leak.

NOTES
Water drips from condensation on the Air Conditioning (A/C) system are normal.

WEEKLY CHECKS

Check the following every week:

Engine oil level.
Engine coolant level.
Brake fluid level.
Dynamic response fluid level.
Screen washer fluid level.
Tyre pressures and condition.
Operate the Air Conditioning (A/C) system.

NOTES
Check the engine oil level more frequently if the vehicle is driven for prolonged periods at high speeds.

SERVICE INFORMATION

The distance until the next service information can be viewed via the touchscreen’s Vehicle section. See SYSTEM SETTINGS.

NOTES
Dependent on the vehicle’s specification, different service information and messages are available as part of the flexible servicing strategy.

The service interval displays as a distance left until the next service is due. If the service is overdue, the distance shows as a negative (-) value.

For more information, contact a retailer/authorized repairer.

ARDUOUS DRIVING CONDITIONS

When a vehicle is operated in extremely arduous conditions, more frequent attention must be paid to servicing requirements.

Arduous driving conditions include:

Driving in dusty and/or sandy conditions.
Driving on rough and/or muddy roads.
Frequent wading.
Frequent driving at high speeds in high ambient temperatures above 50°C.
Frequent driving in severe cold weather down to -40°C.
Frequent driving in mountainous conditions.
Driving in areas using road salt or other corrosive materials on the driving surface.

Contact a retailer/authorized repairer for advice.

EXHAUST FILTER

Exhaust filters are also known as particulate filters. Vehicles fitted with these filters have more efficient emissions control. The particles in the exhaust gases are collected in the exhaust filter during normal driving.

Cleaning of the exhaust filter is also known as regeneration. Regeneration occurs automatically depending on driving conditions. Self-cleaning only occurs when the engine has reached its normal operating temperature.

Self-cleaning takes place while driving, although the characteristics are different for diesel and petrol engine vehicles.

DIESEL EXHAUST FILTER SELF-CLEANING:

Self-cleaning takes place when the vehicle is driven steadily at speeds between 60 km/h and 112 km/h (37 mph and 70 mph). The process normally takes 10 to 20 minutes. Self-cleaning can occur at lower vehicle speeds, but the process may take a little longer at a 50 km/h (30 mph) average speed.

Some driving conditions may not provide sufficient opportunity to begin the exhaust filter self-cleaning automatically. For example: frequently driving short distances in slow-moving traffic, or cold weather. If automatic self-cleaning is not possible, the instrument panel displays the following warning lamps:

Amber: Exhaust filter self-cleaning is required. Driving above 60 km/h (37 mph) for 20 minutes should clean the filter.
NOTES
Failure to follow the above driving approach, to enable filter self-cleaning, may result in reduced vehicle performance. The amber exhaust filter lamp is eventually replaced by a red exhaust filter lamp. The filter may need to be replaced.
Green: Exhaust filter self-cleaning is complete.
Red: The exhaust filter is full. Contact a retailer/authorized repairer as soon as possible.

NOTES
A small increase in fuel consumption may be noticed temporarily during exhaust filter self-cleaning.

NOTES
If diesel fuel with high sulfur content is used regularly, the exhaust may emit a cloud of smoke at the start of the self-cleaning process. The smoke is a result of the sulfur deposit being burnt off and is no cause for concern. If possible, only use low sulfur diesel fuel.

PETROL EXHAUST FILTER SELF-CLEANING:

Self-cleaning takes place when the engine is at its normal operating temperature and sufficient oxygen is present in the exhaust stream. In most situations, the exhaust filter automatically self-cleans without any driver intervention necessary.

Some driving conditions, e.g., repetitive cold starts or continuous full-load driving, may not provide sufficient opportunity to begin the exhaust filter self-cleaning automatically. When this occurs, the instrument panel displays the following warning lamps:

Amber: Exhaust filter self-cleaning is required. Driving steadily below 80 km/h (50 mph) for up to 15 minutes should clean the filter.
NOTES
Failure to follow the above driving approach, to enable filter self-cleaning, may result in reduced vehicle performance. The amber exhaust filter lamp is eventually replaced by a red exhaust filter lamp. The filter may need to be replaced.
Green: Exhaust filter self-cleaning is complete.
Red: The exhaust filter is full. Engine power is reduced. Exhaust filter self-cleaning is required.
NOTES
If a restricted performance message is displayed, contact a retailer/authorized repairer as soon as possible.

NOTES
An increase in the idle speed may be noticed temporarily during exhaust filter self-cleaning.

ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM

CAUTION
No modifications or additions should be made to the anti-theft system. Such changes could cause the system to malfunction.

AIRBAG SYSTEM

WARNING
The components that make up the airbag system are sensitive to electrical or physical interference. Electrical and/or physical interference could easily damage the system and cause inadvertent operation or a malfunction of the airbag module. Airbags should only be repaired by an authorized repairer. If the airbags are not repaired correctly, they may not operate correctly during a collision, which may lead to serious injury or death.

To prevent malfunction of the airbag system, always consult a retailer/authorized repairer before fitting any of the following:

Electronic equipment such as a mobile phone, two-way radio, or in-vehicle entertainment system.
Accessories attached to the front of the vehicle.
Any modification to the front of the vehicle.
Any modification involving the removal or repair of any wiring or component in the vicinity of any of the airbag system components. The components include the steering wheel, steering column, and instrument and fascia panels.
Any modification to the fascia panels or steering wheel.

PARTS AND ACCESSORIES

WARNING
The fitting of non-approved parts and accessories, or the carrying out of non-approved alterations or conversions, may be dangerous. Doing so could affect the safety of the vehicle and occupants, and also invalidate the terms and conditions of the vehicle’s warranty.

WARNING
All replacement parts for the Air Conditioning (A/C) system should be new and equivalent to the manufacturer’s original equipment while complying with the SAE standards. Contact a retailer/authorized repairer for advice. Failure to adhere to the above may lead to serious injury or death.

The extremely flammable symbol may be used on an under-bonnet label. The symbol is relevant to the Air Conditioning (A/C) refrigerant fluid.

The symbol identifies flammable chemicals that have low flash and boiling points, and gases that catch fire when exposed to air.

Jaguar Land Rover Limited accepts no liability for death, personal injury, or damage to property, occurring as a direct result of non-approved modifications. These modifications include but are not limited to: the fitment of non-approved accessories, and the carrying out of non-approved conversions to the vehicle.

ROAD TESTING DYNAMOMETERS (ROLLING ROADS)

Any dynamometer testing should only be carried out by a qualified person, familiar with the dynamometer testing and safety procedures practiced by retailers/authorized repairers.

SAFETY IN THE GARAGE

Make sure the following warnings have been read and fully understood. Failure to comply with the safety instructions could result in an accident, leading to serious injury or death.

WARNING

If the vehicle has been driven recently, do not touch the engine, exhaust, or cooling system components until the engine has cooled. Hot components may cause serious injuries.
Never leave the engine running when the vehicle is in a garage. Exhaust gases are poisonous and can cause unconsciousness and death if inhaled.
The jack is designed for wheel changing only. Never work beneath the vehicle with the jack as the only means of support. Always use correctly-rated vehicle support stands, before putting any part of the body beneath the vehicle. If the wheel-changing jack breaks, the vehicle may cause serious injury or death.
Keep your hands and clothing away from drive belts, pulleys and fans. Some fans may continue to operate after the engine has stopped and may cause serious injuries.
Remove metal wristbands and jewelry before working in the engine compartment. Jewelry may trap the hands in the engine compartment which may cause serious injuries.
Do not touch electrical leads or components while the engine is running, or with the ignition switched on. Any moving component may cause serious injuries.
Do not allow tools or metal parts of the vehicle to make contact with the battery leads or terminals. Metal contacts on electrical terminals may cause electric interference and may lead to serious injuries.

POISONOUS FLUIDS

WARNING
Fluids used in motor vehicles are poisonous and should not be consumed or brought into contact with open wounds. Vehicle fluids may cause serious injuries or infection.

For safety, always read and obey all instructions printed on labels and containers.

USED ENGINE OIL

WARNING
Prolonged contact with engine oil may cause serious skin disorders, including dermatitis and cancer of the skin. Always wash thoroughly after contact.

Pollution of drains, watercourses, or soil is illegal. Use authorized waste disposal sites to dispose of used oil and toxic chemicals.

OPENING THE BONNET

WARNING
Before opening the bonnet, make sure that the ignition is switched off and the smart key is removed from the vehicle. Failure to do so can potentially result in serious injury or death.

Pull the handle, located in the driver’s side front footwell.
Lift the bonnet safety catch, located underneath the center of the bonnet. Raise the bonnet.

CLOSING THE BONNET

WARNING
Before closing the bonnet, make sure that no one is obstructing the closing area and that hands and clothes are clear. The closing bonnet may cause serious injuries.

WARNING
Do not drive with the bonnet secured by the safety catch alone. If the bonnet opens while driving, it may lead to a collision, which may cause serious injuries or death.

WARNING
When closing the bonnet, make sure to stand in front of the vehicle. Do not attempt to close the bonnet while standing at the side of the vehicle. Doing so may result in incorrect latching of the bonnet, which may cause serious injuries or death.

To close the bonnet:

Using both hands, lower the bonnet and let it drop from a height of between 20 to 50 cm.
Try to lift the front edge of the bonnet, near both corners, to check that it is securely engaged.
If the bonnet lifts slightly, it is not properly latched. Open the bonnet again, and with a little more force, try again to close it.

UNDER-BONNET COVERS REMOVAL

The following steps describe how to remove the under-bonnet covers:

Release and remove the turnbuckle clips securing the covers.
Lift the edge of the covers and slide to remove.

UNDER-BONNET COVERS REFITTING

CAUTION
Before refitting the under-bonnet covers, make sure that no pipes, cables, or other items have been trapped between the cover and the casing.

To refit the under-bonnet covers:

Place the cover over the casing. Make sure that the holes are aligned.
Push the cover down firmly. Rotate the turnbuckle clips clockwise to fasten.

FUEL SYSTEM

WARNING

Under no circumstances should any part of the fuel system be dismantled or replaced by anyone other than a suitably qualified vehicle technician. If any parts are replaced by an unqualified person, this may cause interference in the operation of the vehicle, leading to serious injury or death.
Make sure sparks and open flames are kept away from the engine compartment. A spark may cause an explosion, which may lead to serious injuries or death.
Wear protective clothing, including, where possible, gloves made from an impervious material. Failure to do so may result in serious injury or death.
If fuel odor is detected, switch off the vehicle and exit as soon as possible. Contact a suitably qualified vehicle technician. Failure to do so could lead to serious injuries or death.

CHANGING A BULB

NOTES
All lights are either LED or xenon units and must only be replaced by a retailer/authorized repairer.

WIPERS SERVICE POSITION

NOTES
The smart key must remain inside the vehicle while the wiper blades are being replaced.

NOTES
Fit only replacement wiper blades that are identical to the original specification.

NOTES
Replace the wiper blades in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Before changing a wiper blade, the wiper arms must be set in the service position as follows:

Make sure the vehicle’s ignition is switched off.
Switch the vehicle’s ignition on and then off again.
Immediately press the wash/wipe control to its lowest position, as if to command a single wipe. Hold this position while switching on the vehicle’s ignition again. The wipers move to the service position. See WIPER OPERATION.
When the new parts have been fitted, switch the vehicle’s ignition off. The wipers return to the park position.

FOLDING FABRIC ROOF RESET

Make sure that the conditions listed below are met before carrying out the folding fabric sunroof reset procedure:

The ambient air temperature is between 5°C to 65°C.
The vehicle is at a standstill.
The vehicle’s battery is sufficiently charged and the electrical connections are good.

The folding fabric sunroof needs to be reset if the battery is disconnected. Disconnection includes the battery becoming discharged, or an interruption to the power supply while the folding fabric sunroof is being operated.

Once the power supply is restored, reset the folding fabric sunroof as follows:

Switch the ignition on.
Use the switch to close the folding fabric sunroof to the fully closed position. Release the switch. See ELECTRIC WINDOWS.
WARNING
Vehicles with a folding fabric sunroof do not have an anti-trap system. Make sure that no occupants have any body parts in a position where they could become trapped. Serious injury or death could occur.
Fully press and hold the front of the folding fabric sunroof switch for 10 seconds to start the reset cycle. Continue to hold the front of the folding fabric sunroof switch until the folding fabric sunroof moves forwards and backward a small amount.

The folding fabric sunroof can now be operated as normal.

PANORAMIC ROOF BLIND RESET

NOTES
The following procedure also resets the panoramic roof.

The roof blind needs to be reset if the battery is disconnected, becomes discharged, or the power supply is interrupted. The reset procedure is as follows:

Start the engine.
With the roof and blind closed, press the roof close switch firmly and hold for approximately 10 seconds. The roof/blind will make an audible click.
Release the switch.
Within 5 seconds, press and hold the roof close switch again. The roof blind and roof blind opening panel will both fully open, then both close. Release the switch once movement is complete.

The panoramic roof/blind can now be operated as normal.

WINDOW RESET

The windows need to be reset if the battery is disconnected, becomes discharged, or the power supply is interrupted.

Reset as follows:

Close the window fully. See ELECTRIC WINDOWS.
Release the switch. Lift the switch to the close position and hold for 1 second.
Repeat the procedure on each window.

NOTES
Make sure that a minimum of 12V is available at all times. It is recommended to have the engine running while resetting the windows.

FIRE EXTINGUISHER

For certain markets, fire extinguishers are fitted to comply with local legislation. Please note, it is the owner’s responsibility to make sure the fire extinguisher is maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

The owner is also responsible for making sure that the pressure is at a suitable operating pressure, as indicated on the pressure gauge. Only use fire extinguishers approved by the vehicle manufacturer.

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