Checking Vehicle Fluid Levels
Locating Filler Caps for Operating Fluids
This section details the location of various filler caps for operating fluids. The diagram shows numbered caps corresponding to specific fluid reservoirs:
- 1. Oil filler cap for engine (V8 diesel engine).
- 2. Oil filler cap for engine (V6 diesel engine).
- 3. Oil filler cap for engine (V6 and V8 gasoline engines).
- 4. Brake fluid reservoir cap. Note: The brake fluid reservoir cap is always installed on the driver's side of the vehicle.
- 5. Windshield washer fluid reservoir cap (all vehicles).
- 6. Windshield washer fluid reservoir cap (for vehicles in cold climates only).
- 7. Dynamic stabilization system fluid reservoir cap.
- 8. Engine cooling system filler cap.
Do not operate the vehicle if there is a possibility of the leaking fluid coming into contact with hot surfaces, such as the exhaust system.
Checking Engine Oil Level
Check the engine oil level weekly. If the oil level suddenly drops or you notice a significant decrease, consult a qualified specialist. If the screen displays an "ENGINE OIL PRESSURE LOW" message, find a safe place, stop the vehicle immediately, turn off the engine, and consult a qualified specialist. Do not restart the engine until the cause is resolved.
Before checking the oil level, ensure:
- The vehicle is on a level surface.
- The engine is at operating temperature (oil is hot).
- The engine has been stopped for 10 minutes. The system will not provide accurate readings until the oil level has stabilized.
To check the oil level:
- Turn on the ignition (without starting the engine). Refer to Section 145, STARTING THE ENGINE.
- Ensure the gear selector is in Park (P).
- Select "Vehicle Info" from the instrument panel menu. Refer to Section 61, INSTRUMENT CLUSTER MENU.
- Select "Oil Level Display". The instrument cluster will show the current oil level and any topping-up recommendations.
- Top up the oil as instructed. The oil level is displayed on a scale. Messages on the right of the indicator will advise on the necessary actions.
If the oil level is within the normal range, the message "Engine Oil Level OK" will be displayed. No oil needs to be added.
If the oil level is below normal, a message will indicate the amount of oil to be added (e.g., "Add 0.5 Litre"). Add the recommended amount of oil.
If the "Engine Oil Level Overfilled" message is displayed, seek qualified assistance immediately. Do not drive the vehicle with excess oil, as this can cause serious engine damage.
If the "Engine Oil Level Underfilled" message is displayed, add 1.5 liters (2.6 pints) of oil and recheck the level.
If the "Engine Oil Level Not Available" message is displayed, the oil level is stabilizing. Turn off the ignition, wait 10 minutes, and check the oil level again using the indicator.
If the "ENGINE OIL LEVEL MONITOR SYSTEM FAULT" warning is displayed, consult a qualified specialist.
Topping Up Engine Oil
The vehicle may lose warranty coverage if damage occurs due to the use of oil that does not meet the manufacturer's specifications.
Using oils that do not meet specifications can lead to increased engine wear, sludge deposits, and higher emissions. This can also cause engine failure.
Overfilling the engine with oil can cause serious engine damage. Add oil in small quantities and recheck the level to avoid exceeding the maximum allowable amount.
- Remove the oil filler cap.
- Top up the oil according to the display instructions. Refer to page 320, CHECKING ENGINE OIL LEVEL.
- Clean up any spilled oil.
- Recheck the oil level after 10 minutes.
Use oil that meets the required technical specifications and is suitable for the climate conditions in which the vehicle will be operated. Refer to page 384, LUBRICANTS AND OPERATING FLUIDS.
To raise the oil level from the MIN mark to the MAX mark, approximately 1.5 liters of oil are required.
Checking Coolant Level
Operating the engine without coolant can cause serious engine damage.
Check the coolant level in the expansion tank weekly (or more often if driving long distances or in severe conditions). Check the level only when the system is cold.
To check the coolant level, the under-hood cover needs to be removed. Refer to page 304, REMOVING THE UNDER-HOOD COVER.
Ensure the level is between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of the expansion tank.
If coolant or steam escapes from under the radiator cap, or if the level drops sharply, contact a Land Rover dealer or authorized workshop immediately for a vehicle inspection.
Topping Up Coolant
Do not remove the filler cap on a hot engine – escaping steam or hot fluid can cause severe burns.
Do not allow antifreeze to come into contact with a hot engine, as this may cause a fire.
Slowly unscrew the filler cap to release pressure before removing it completely.
Coolant is toxic; ingestion can be fatal. Keep coolant containers closed and out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion is suspected, seek immediate medical attention.
If fluid gets on skin or in eyes, immediately rinse thoroughly with clean water.
When traveling in areas where the available water contains salt, always try to use fresh (rain or distilled) water. Using salt water can cause significant engine damage.
Using an unauthorized coolant can negatively affect the cooling system and reduce engine life.
Coolant can damage painted surfaces; immediately remove any spilled fluid with an absorbent material and rinse the area with a water solution of car shampoo.
Top up to the MAX mark on the side of the expansion tank. Use a 50% solution of water and the recommended antifreeze. Refer to page 384, LUBRICANTS AND OPERATING FLUIDS.
The specific gravity of a 50% antifreeze solution at 20°C (68°F) is 1.068, providing freeze protection down to -40°C (-40°F).
The coolant contains necessary anti-corrosion additives. The coolant level should be maintained at 50% ± 5% year-round, not just in cold weather. To ensure the anti-corrosion properties of the coolant are maintained, it should be checked annually and completely replaced every ten years, regardless of mileage. Failure to do so may lead to corrosion of the radiator and engine components.
In an emergency, if the approved coolant is not available, fill the cooling system with clean water, but be aware that this will reduce freeze protection. Do not use conventional coolant. If in doubt, consult a qualified specialist.
After topping up, securely close the filler cap until the ratchet mechanism clicks.
Checking Brake Fluid Level
Immediately seek qualified assistance if the brake pedal travel is longer than usual or if there is a significant drop in brake fluid level. Driving under such conditions may increase braking distance or lead to complete brake failure.
If the fluid level in the brake fluid reservoir drops below the recommended level, the red brake system warning light will illuminate on the instrument panel. Refer to Section 68, BRAKE SYSTEM (RED).
If the warning light illuminates while driving, stop the vehicle as soon as safety permits, applying the brake pedal smoothly. Check the fluid level and top it up if necessary.
Check the fluid level at least once a week (more often if driving long distances or in severe conditions), with the vehicle parked on a level surface.
To check the brake fluid level, remove the cap on the driver's side. Refer to page 304, REMOVING THE UNDER-HOOD COVER.
The brake fluid level should be between the MAX and MIN marks.
Topping Up Brake Fluid
Brake fluid damages paintwork. Immediately remove any spilled fluid with an absorbent material and rinse the area with a water solution of car shampoo.
Only use new fluid from a sealed container. Fluid from opened containers or previously drained fluid absorbs moisture, which can negatively affect performance and is therefore not recommended for use.
- Before removing the filler cap, clean it to prevent dirt from entering the reservoir.
- Remove the filler cap.
- Top up the reservoir with the recommended brake fluid to the MAX mark. Refer to page 384, LUBRICANTS AND OPERATING FLUIDS.
- Close the cap and the cover panel.
Checking Windshield Washer Fluid Level
Some windshield washer fluids are flammable, especially when exposed to sparks in undiluted or highly concentrated forms. Avoid contact between washer fluid and open flames or sources of ignition.
If the vehicle is operated at temperatures below 4°C (40°F), use a washer fluid with antifreeze protection. In cold weather, using fluid without antifreeze protection can impair visibility and increase the risk of an accident.
Do not fill the washer fluid reservoir with antifreeze or vinegar-based water solutions, as antifreeze can damage paintwork, and vinegar can damage the windshield washer pump.
Spilling washer fluid can cause discoloration of body panels. Avoid spilling, especially when using undiluted fluids or high concentrations. In case of spillage, immediately rinse the affected area with water.
The washer fluid is pumped to the windshield and rear window washer jets, as well as the headlight washer jets. Check the reservoir level and top up the fluid at least once a week. Always top up with washer fluid to prevent freezing.
Periodically activate the washers to check the operation and aim of the jets.
- Before removing the filler cap, clean it to prevent dirt from entering the reservoir.
- Remove the filler cap.
- Fill the reservoir until the fluid is visible in the filler neck.
- Replace the filler cap.
Vehicles for cold climates are also equipped with an auxiliary washer fluid reservoir. The same important points apply to vehicles with an auxiliary reservoir.
Checking Dynamic Response System Fluid Level
For vehicles with an auxiliary washer fluid reservoir, always check and top up the main reservoir first.
Dynamic response system fluid is highly toxic. Keep containers sealed and out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion is suspected, seek immediate medical attention.
If fluid gets on skin or in eyes, immediately rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Do not start the engine if the fluid level has dropped below the MIN mark. This could cause serious damage to the dynamic response system.
If a significant drop in fluid level is observed, seek qualified assistance immediately.
If the fluid level is dropping slowly, it can be topped up to the upper mark to allow driving to a service station for inspection. However, it is recommended to seek assistance from qualified specialists before continuing to operate the vehicle.
Do not drive the vehicle to a service station if there is a possibility of leaking fluid coming into contact with hot surfaces, such as the exhaust system.
Check and top up the fluid only with the engine off and the system cold. Refer to page 319, LOCATING FILLER CAPS FOR OPERATING FLUIDS.
The fluid level should be between the MIN and MAX marks.
Topping Up Dynamic Response System Fluid
Dynamic response system fluid can damage painted surfaces. Immediately remove any spilled fluid with an absorbent material and rinse the area with a water solution of car shampoo.
Do not fill the reservoir above the MAX mark.
- Before removing the filler cap, clean it to prevent dirt from entering the reservoir.
- Remove the filler cap.
- Top up the reservoir with the recommended fluid to the level between the MIN and MAX marks. Refer to page 384, LUBRICANTS AND OPERATING FLUIDS.
- Replace the filler cap.
