I have a freelander TL2 (2003). It has no power when starting off and it seems that the gears are slipping. the garage has replaced the gear box 3 times (with second hand gear box) but problem continues. Before the problem started I had the orange HDC light on. Could it be another problem as I dont think the garage knows
Cars & Trucks - Land Rover - Freelander - 2003 Land Rover Freelander
Answers & Comments
HI, The HDC or Hill Decent Control light will illuminate if there is an issue with the micro switch that if fitted on the brake pedal. This switch tells the on board computer that the brake pedal has been depressed. The switch looks very similar to the stop light switch and is very vital. If damaged, it will induce the symptoms you are having at this moment. This is the reason why the gear box replacement procedures did not fix the issue. The gear box was never the problem. This little switch is basically causing your issues at the moment. It has failed.The HDC module cannot function correctly without the minor switch. The engine computer will induce limp mode, which will alter all timing aspects of the vehicle, thus, causing loss of power and false engine readings like gear slippage and abnormal gas consumption.
This should come up on a standard diagnostic scan. if not, there may be additional issues concerning the engien CPU.
Dear Local Wonder
Thank you for your advice. One other thing I should have mentioned was that I was also getting theTraction Control light coming on as well. I have also noticed that the central locking seems not to work when the problem occurs (or maybe thats coincidence).
Last night when it happened again, I just about made it up a steep incline, then about 35 meters further when on the flat something clicked in and the car lurged forward and seemed to be ok again.
Many Thanks
David.
I see. The symptoms are , indeed, indicating that the switch is failing. This switch is very important to the control modules for your HDC, ABS and TC. All those modules rely on the micro switches transfer of brake applications during travel.You should see a huge improvement in vehicle performance after you replace the damaged micro switch.