Land Rover Discovery 4 5.0 V8 petrol workshop guide

Service: engine oil & filter

Steps

1. Warm the engine, park level, and lift or raise the vehicle safely (on air suspension, select the jacking/workshop mode first so it does not move under you).
2. Remove the engine undertray. Drain the oil and renew the sump plug washer (some engines need a new plug).
3. Renew the filter: cartridge types unscrew the housing cap; fit the new O-rings supplied and tighten the cap to the torque on it.
4. Refill with 5W-20 (STJLR.03.5003) on early engines, 0W-20 (STJLR.51.5122) later: match the cap. Start, check for leaks, then check the level after a few minutes on the dipstick or in the instrument menu (≈8.5 L).
5. Reset the service indicator with the menu or a diagnostic tool, and log the service here.

Pollen (cabin) filter

Steps

1. Find the filter (behind the glovebox or under the scuttle panel, depending on model).
2. Note the airflow arrow, fit the new one the same way.

Air filter element

Steps

1. Release the airbox lid and lift out the element.
2. Wipe out the box, check the seal, fit the new element so it seats all round.
3. Check the intake ducts for splits. Inspect more often in dusty use.

Spark plugs

Steps

1. Remove the engine covers and the coils one at a time.
2. Blow dirt out of the plug wells before removing each plug.
3. Fit the new plugs to the specified torque; don't use anti-seize unless your manual says so.
4. Refit the coils firmly and clear any misfire codes.

Auxiliary belt & tensioner check

Steps

1. Check the belt for cracks, missing ribs and glazing.
2. Check the tensioner holds steady with the engine running and the pulleys run quietly.

Coolant change (10-year)

Steps

1. Work on a cold engine only. Remove the expansion tank or radiator cap slowly.
2. Open the radiator drain (or remove the bottom hose) and the cylinder block drain tap or plug. Set the heater to hot.
3. Flush with clean water until it runs clear. Squeeze every hose: replace any that feel soft, crunchy or swollen.
4. Check the radiator fins, fan blades and (where fitted) the viscous coupling. A viscous fan should turn with some resistance when the engine is warm.
5. Refill with a 50% antifreeze mix (OAT antifreeze to Land Rover spec). Fill slowly to avoid air locks; on coil-sprung models use the bleed screw on the thermostat housing or radiator top where fitted.
6. Run the engine to working temperature with the cap off (or loose), top up as the level drops, refit the cap and check again when cold.

Brakes, tyres & suspension inspection

Steps

1. Check pad thickness and disc condition on every wheel (many models also have pad wear sensors).
2. Check tyres for wear, damage and age; check the spare.
3. Look for leaks at the dampers, and check ball joints and bushes for play.
4. Check brake pipes and hoses for corrosion and chafing.

Brake fluid change

Steps

1. Bleed each wheel in the order in your workshop manual.
2. Some models need an ABS bleed routine run with a diagnostic tool.
3. Check the pedal is firm before driving.

Transfer box & locking-diff oil

Steps

1. Check your vehicle has a two-speed transfer box (a low-range button) and an electronic locking rear diff.
2. Drain and refill each to its level plug with the specified fluid.

Automatic gearbox fluid & differentials

Steps

1. The ZF automatics are filled at a set fluid temperature (about 35–45 °C) with the engine running: you need a diagnostic tool to read it.
2. Renew the sump pan or filter and refill to the level plug as the workshop manual describes.
3. Drain and refill the front and rear differentials (and the transfer unit/PTU on transverse-engined models).

Air suspension check

Steps

1. Park overnight on level ground; note any corner that has dropped.
2. Spray the air springs (folds at the bottom) and pipe joints with soapy water to find leaks.
3. Read the suspension codes; listen for the compressor running for long periods.

Electric parking brake check

Steps

1. Check it holds the vehicle on a steep slope.
2. Models with drum-in-disc shoes: check and adjust them as your manual describes (a diagnostic tool may be needed to set service mode).
3. Never work on the rear brakes without putting the EPB into service mode first.

Underbody & corrosion check

Steps

1. Wash the underside, then check the subframes, frame rails, brake and fuel pipes, and the rear arches.
2. Treat any bare metal and re-wax cavities.

Annual safety inspection

Steps

1. Lights: every light works, including brake lights, indicators, reverse light and number plate light.
2. Wipers and washers clear the screen. Horn works.
3. Seat belts latch, retract and are not frayed. Seat mounts are secure.
4. Exhaust: no blows and the mountings are secure.
5. Tyres: tread depth, cuts, bulges and age. Check the spare too.
6. Brakes pull up straight and the handbrake holds on a hill.

Monthly walk-round checks

Steps

1. Engine oil on the dipstick between the marks.
2. Coolant level (check cold), brake and clutch fluid levels, washer fluid.
3. Tyre pressures (including the spare) and look for cuts.
4. Look under the vehicle where it has been parked. Note the colour of any drips: brown/black = oil, green/blue/orange = coolant, red = ATF or PAS, clear and slippery = brake fluid.
5. All lights work.