Navigating Land Rover’s Electrical Issues: Common Electrical Problems and Solutions

With that said, Land Rovers do suffer from certain problems - despite being very durable, these cars are prone to electrical issues. In fact, the brand was voted last in a 2022 study on vehicle reliability, even behind some super-luxury brands.

The study, which asked, “Do Land Rovers have a lot of electrical problems?” found that these cars make unscheduled trips to the mechanic 0.7 times a year, well above the average of 0.4. Once there, there’s a 16% chance that the problem is serious.

So, how is it that some owners manage to make their Land Rovers last between 10-13 years, driving upwards of 250,000-350,000 km? 

The simple answer is basic troubleshooting measures and routine maintenance.

Unsure what this entails? In this article, we’ll give you a breakdown of the most prominent Land Rover electrical issues and their solutions.

However, do note that while some issues can be fixed through basic maintenance, complex electrical problems can be more frustrating. We recommend going to a qualified Land Rover electrical repair centre in such cases.

Five Common Electrical Problems in Land Rovers

Several features of modern Land Rovers rely on its electrical system: seamless functioning of electrical components is essential for everything from engine management to in-car entertainment systems. 

Electrical problems lead to inconsistent performance, frequent stalling, and expensive service bills.

What are the most common issues to look out for? Here’s a quick lowdown. 

Frequent Battery Drains

The battery of a Land Rover is responsible not only for powering electrical systems, but also for making the car start. Unexpected and frequent battery drains can thus be frustrating, as well as a signal that further issues may crop up.

Some signs of battery-draining issues include:

• Trouble starting the car

• Sudden dimming of lights

• Frequent stalling

• Inconsistent functioning of components 

Sometimes, these symptoms are due to an obvious reason — such as an aging or dead battery. In these cases, battery replacement offers a simple fix. However, in many other situations, the reasons aren’t as straightforward.

Some causes you may not always associate with frequent battery drain include:

• Parasitic draw — when components continue to draw current from the battery even after the engine has been turned off

• Bad battery cables

• Faulty alternator

• Extreme temperatures

• Damaged sensors

Faulty Alternators

A car’s alternator is responsible for charging the battery while the engine is running.  Signs of alternator failure are similar to those of a malfunctioning battery, making it hard to figure out which of the two parts is a problem. One way to tell the difference is this: if your car dies soon after a jump start, the problem is likely with the alternator.

Other signs to look out for include:

• Trouble starting the car or frequent stalling

• Sudden drop in the dashboard battery gauge 

• Slow or malfunctioning accessories

• Unexpected dimming or brightening of lights 

Some causes of a faulty alternator include:

• Damaged alternator belt

• Leaking fluid 

• An accessory that’s overloading the system

Malfunctioning Start/Stop Technology

As of 2016, all Land Rover and Range Rover models were fitted with stop/start technology to improve fuel efficiency. This system activates automatically when the ignition is switched on, and goes off when the vehicle is completely stationary.

However, many Land Rover owners report that their system isn’t working as intended — switching off at unexpected times or failing to activate.

There are several reasons for a malfunctioning start/stop system. However, in most cases, issues with the electrical system are often the culprit. Some causes include: 

• Problems with the alternator or starter motor

• Faulty wiring 

• Damaged fuses

• Extreme weather

• Aging battery

Electrical Wiring and Connector Problems

If you’re having trouble starting your car, the problem may be with the wiring or connectors. When wiring issues in car systems are left undiagnosed, they can snowball into larger problems — with more expensive solutions. Replacing a few wires is a simple enough task, but more comprehensive car wiring services can cost thousands of dollars.

If you notice any of these signs, look out for car electrical wiring repair near you:

• Flickering lights 

• A burning smell 

• Frequently blown fuses

The causes for wiring and connector problems are diverse, ranging from corrosion and extreme weather conditions to rats chewing through cables.

Infotainment System Glitches

Electrical issues can also cause glitches in a Land Rover’s infotainment system — such as a Range Rover radio not working, frequent trouble with GPS systems, or a malfunctioning touch screen.

While these issues can be the result of outdated software, in most cases, they signal a failure of an electrical component and should be addressed immediately. If you’re looking for a Land Rover infotainment system fix, we recommend contacting an expert who does electrical work on cars.

These may be the most common electrical issues, but they’re far from the only electrical short in car symptoms. Faulty sensors, damaged actuators and spark plug issues also lead to insufficient power sources and malfunctions in the central locking systems, or ABS systems.

How can you identify what causes Land Rover electrical problems and zero in on a solution? 

Here are two ways.

One: Basic Troubleshooting

In some cases, electrical issues can be diagnosed through DIY troubleshooting practices. The following measures should be part of a Land Rover owner’s routine to ensure that more complex issues don’t develop in the long run.

Check Battery Terminals

The first step when you notice any Range Rover electrical problems should be to check for any obvious visual damage on the battery terminal. 

If there’s no apparent damage, test the battery using a voltmeter. Attach the positive lead to the positive terminal and the other to the negative terminal. If the results are between 12.4-12.7 volts when the car is off, the battery is likely in good condition. If there is any variation, it might be time to head down to the mechanic. 

Reset Electronic Systems

Some issues can also be fixed by simply resetting the car’s electronic system or ECU. For this, all you need to do is disconnect the car battery from the terminals for a few minutes. Once it’s reconnected, the ECU will have reset.

Check Fuse Boxes

Depending on the model of the Land Rover in question, there could be several fuse boxes located in different parts of the vehicle.

Shorted fuses can cause serious electrical issues, so inspecting these boxes is crucial. If you’re unaware of where your car’s fuse box is, consult its manual.

Also, be aware that while replacing a fuse is a relatively straightforward process, you must still exercise caution and adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Test the Alternator

A multimeter is a tool that helps reliably diagnose issues with the car’s alternator. When using a multimeter, first turn the car’s engine off and use the device to get a base reading of the battery voltage. This figure should be around 12V.

Now, start the car and connect the multimeter once again. The voltage should have increased. 

A good alternator will return a reading of 13-14V. Anything lower is a sign of an aging alternator. If there is no change at all, it’s probably dead.

Look for Faulty Wires and Loose Connections

If your battery and alternator are fine, the issue could be a result of faulty wiring. It’s crucial to regularly inspect all wiring for signs of wear and tear and look out for loose connections to prevent further issues from developing.

If, after all these tests, you’re still dealing with repeated malfunctioning and are unable to find the root cause, it may be time to consult with a professional.

Two: Routine Maintenance

Just like a car’s engine or brakes require routine upkeep, Land Rover electric parts need maintenance in order to function as intended. Regular visits to a mechanic can help ensure the longevity of a vehicle while reducing the risk of incurring hefty bills in the future.

During a scheduled maintenance appointment, an expert may inspect the following:

• Alternator

• Battery cables and terminals 

• Drive belt that connects the engine to the alternator

• Voltage regulator 

• Ignition switch 

It’s recommended that a Land Rover be sent in for two scheduled maintenance sessions a year. The frequency of this depends on a few factors — ranging from the age of a vehicle to the weather conditions.

Meanwhile, any signs of the electrical problems outlined above must be addressed immediately. 

Why Seek Professional Assistance?

There are many reasons why you might need professional assistance to fix electrical problems — especially in cars as valuable as Land Rovers.

For one, the brand’s electrical system is a highly sophisticated web of components — wires, sensors, spark plugs, and so much more. While DIY inspection and practices help identify basic issues, conducting a complete Land Rover diagnostics test requires specialized assistance. Experts use state-of-the-art tools to find even the most niche problems that would be undetectable to an untrained eye.

Furthermore, such malfunctions aren’t just frustrating to deal with—they also pose a serious safety threat. Car owners who are not trained to handle electrical components can end up making minor mistakes with disastrous consequences.

Untrained repairs also put you at a higher risk of suffering electric shocks or burns and increase the chances of your car’s crucial safety features malfunctioning. An auto electrical specialist, on the other hand, isn’t just trained to deal with specific issues, but also possesses a great deal of knowledge about luxury vehicles in general. 

At the end of the day, only a specialized car repair company will have the required expertise in all Land Rover models, along with access to relevant tools.

Book an Appointment with Westminster Motors

If you’re experiencing any of the issues outlined in this article, we highly recommend getting in touch with Westminster Motors, one of the leading independent repair and diagnostics facilities in Canada. 

For years, our team has offered exceptional, warranty-compliant services for some of the world’s finest automobiles — including several Land Rover models, such as Range Rover Hybrid, Discovery, and more.

Here are just some reasons why our customers love us: 

• Our highly skilled technicians are experts in diagnosing, servicing, and repairing specific Land Rover models, which is a feature that regular repair shops often lack.

• We’re passionate about cars and understand the value of heritage cars.

• We are an independent company, not associated with any car brand. This allows us to always put the customer first. We never recommend repairs you don’t need or force unnecessary components on you.

• We use only genuine parts and ensure all our practices are in accordance with the manufacturer’s warranty.

Westminster Motors can assist you with any service or repair concerns your vehicle is experiencing in a timely, friendly, and cost-effective way.Don’t hesitate to book an appointment with us if you’re looking for Range Rover Evoque repairs, general diagnostics, or even a pre-purchase car inspection.

Frequently Asked Questions about Land Rover’s Electrical Issues

What are the first signs of electrical problems in a Land Rover?

Electrical problems can manifest in several ways in a Land Rover. Some of the first signs to look out for are: 

• Dimming headlights

• Frequent stalling, or slow-starting 

• Problems with the infotainment system, including Bluetooth and GPS issues

• Frequent flickering on dashboard lights

• Malfunctioning fuel gauge

How often should the electrical system of a Land Rover be checked?

Routine maintenance is one of the best ways to prevent electrical issues. A Land Rover must ideally be sent for check-ups to a licensed mechanic at least twice a year.

Some factors can influence this frequency, such as the age of a vehicle, the components that are malfunctioning, or factors like how often you drive the car and the weather where you live.

What should I do if my Land Rover’s start/stop technology stops working?

The Land Rover’s start/stop system is made up of several components, each of which must be thoroughly checked to determine the cause of failure. In some cases, simply resetting the system may do the trick; in other cases, entire batteries may have to be replaced. If you’re facing an issue with the system, your best course of action is to reach out to an expert in diagnosing electrical problems. 

How can I reset my Land Rover’s electrical system?

Resetting the Land Rover’s electronic system, or ECU, is a simple process that can fix a wide range of issues. To do this, all you need to do is disconnect the car battery from the terminals and wait for about 20-30 minutes. Once you reconnect it, the ECU will have reset. The procedure may differ between makes and models, so look up more specifics in your car manual or consult an electrical repair expert. 

Conclusion

Ultimately, if you want to keep your Land Rover running for as long as possible and avoid paying massive bills, it’s crucial to look out for the common Land Rover electrical faults outlined above. While some issues can be fixed through troubleshooting methods and during routine maintenance sessions, others may require the immediate assistance of experts. 

Whether you’re driving a Range Rover Sport Hybrid or one of Land Rover’s electric vehicles (EV), we urge you not to delay the process and get the expertise you need to maintain your vehicle.

Author: Avo Demirjian