Checking and Topping Up Vehicle Fluids

Opening and Closing the Hood

Follow these steps to safely open and close the vehicle's hood:

1. Pull the hood release lever located in the front left footwell.
2. Lift the safety catch under the center of the hood and raise the hood.
3. Lower the hood until the safety catch engages. Press down firmly with both hands until you hear a click. Ensure both latches are secure by trying to lift the front edge of the hood.

Caution: Do not drive if the hood is secured by only one safety catch.

Toxic Fluids

Vehicle fluids are toxic. Avoid ingestion and contact with open wounds. Always read and follow instructions on labels and containers for personal safety.

Used Engine Oil

Prolonged contact with engine oil can cause skin diseases, including dermatitis or skin cancer. Always wash your hands thoroughly after contact.

It is illegal to pour used engine oil into drains, waterways, or onto the ground. Dispose of used engine oil and toxic chemicals at designated disposal sites.

Engine Compartment Overview

Familiarize yourself with the locations of various fluid reservoirs and the dipstick:

2.0L Gasoline Engine:

1. Brake fluid/clutch fluid reservoir (under covers).
• A. Left-hand drive vehicles.
• B. Right-hand drive vehicles.
2. Engine oil filler cap.
3. Engine oil dipstick.
4. Windshield washer fluid filler cap.
5. Engine cooling system filler cap.

2.2L Diesel Engine:

1. Brake fluid/clutch fluid reservoir (under covers):
• A. Left-hand drive vehicles.
• B. Right-hand drive vehicles.
2. Engine oil filler cap.
3. Engine oil dipstick.

Caution: Do not operate the vehicle if there is a risk of leaking fluid contacting hot surfaces, such as the exhaust system.

Checking Engine Oil Level

Check the engine oil level weekly. If the oil level drops suddenly or significantly, consult a qualified specialist.

Never let the oil level drop below the minimum mark or the 'MIN' indication on the dipstick.

If the 'ENGINE OIL PRESSURE LOW' message appears on the display, find a safe place, stop the engine immediately, and consult a qualified specialist. Do not restart the engine until the cause is rectified.

Preparation for Checking Engine Oil Level:

• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface.
• The engine oil should be cold.

Note: If checking the oil level when the engine is warm, turn off the ignition and wait 5 minutes for the oil to drain back into the sump. Do not start the engine.

Procedure:

1. Remove the oil dipstick and wipe it clean with a lint-free cloth.
2. Fully insert the dipstick and remove it again to check the oil level.

Interpreting the Dipstick Reading:

• If the oil level is closer to the upper mark or 'MAX' than the lower mark, no oil needs to be added.
• If the oil level is closer to the lower mark or 'MIN', add 0.5 liters (1 pint) of oil.
• If the oil level is below the lower mark or 'MIN', add 1.5 liters (2.6 pints) of oil for diesel engines, or 0.8 liters (1.4 pints) for gasoline engines. Recheck the level after 5 minutes.

Topping Up Engine Oil

Note: The vehicle may lose warranty coverage if damage occurs due to the use of oil that does not meet the manufacturer's specifications.

Important: Using oil that does not meet specifications can lead to increased engine wear, sludge formation, and increased emissions, potentially causing engine failure.

Adding too much oil can cause serious engine damage. Add oil in small quantities and recheck the level to avoid exceeding the maximum permissible level.

1. Remove the oil filler cap.
2. Add oil so that the level on the dipstick is between the 'MIN' and 'MAX' marks.
3. Clean up any spilled oil.
4. Recheck the oil level after 5 minutes.

Use oil that meets the required technical specifications and is suitable for the climatic conditions in which the vehicle is operated.

Note: Approximately 0.85 liters (1.5 pints) of oil is required to raise the level between the 'MIN' and 'MAX' marks for gasoline engines, and 1.5 liters (2.6 pints) for diesel engines.

Engine Oil Characteristics

It is crucial to use oil with the correct technical specifications. For vehicles equipped with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), using the specified oil is essential to prevent serious engine damage and ensure maximum DPF service life.

For new vehicles sold in countries with high-sulfur fuel, the DPF may not be fitted, and alternative oil specifications are recommended. Refer to page 204 for 'SULFUR CONTENT'. Using incorrect oil types can lead to severe engine damage.

Land Rover recommends Castrol oils. Refer to page 245 for 'LUBRICANTS AND OPERATING FLUIDS'.

Checking Coolant Level

Caution: Operating the engine without coolant can cause serious engine damage.

Check the coolant level in the expansion tank at least once a week, or more frequently if you drive long distances or in severe conditions. Always check the level when the system is cold.

Ensure the level is maintained between the 'MIN' and 'MAX' marks on the side of the expansion tank.

If the level drops suddenly or significantly, have the vehicle inspected by a qualified specialist.

Topping Up Coolant:

Caution: Do not remove the filler cap on a hot engine, as escaping steam or hot fluid can cause severe burns.

Antifreeze is a flammable liquid. Keep coolant away from open flames and sources of ignition (e.g., a hot engine).

Slowly unscrew the filler cap to release any pressure before removing it completely.

When driving in areas where the available water contains salt, use fresh (rain or distilled) water. Using salt water can cause significant engine damage.

Fill to the 'MAX' mark on the side of the expansion tank. Use only a 50% mixture of water and Texaco XLC coolant.

Note: In an emergency, if approved coolant is unavailable, fill the system with clean water, but be aware that this will reduce frost protection. Do not add or mix with conventional coolant. If in doubt, consult a qualified specialist.

After topping up, securely tighten the cap until the ratchet mechanism clicks.

Non-Freezing Coolant System:

Caution: Coolant is toxic and ingestion can be fatal. Keep coolant containers closed and out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion is suspected, seek immediate medical attention.

If coolant comes into contact with skin or eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water.

Using an unapproved coolant can negatively affect the cooling system and reduce engine service life.

Coolant can damage painted surfaces. Immediately wipe up any spills with an absorbent material and wash the area with an automotive shampoo solution.

Coolant contains necessary anti-corrosion additives. The coolant concentration 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 result in corrosion of the radiator and engine components.

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).

Checking Clutch/Brake Fluid Level

Caution: Brake fluid is highly toxic. Keep brake fluid containers closed and out of reach of children. If you suspect you have accidentally swallowed the fluid, seek immediate medical attention.

If fluid gets on skin or in eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water.

Brake fluid is flammable. Do not allow brake fluid to come into contact with open flames or sources of ignition (e.g., a hot engine).

If the fluid level in the brake fluid reservoir drops below the recommended level, a red warning light will illuminate on the instrument panel.

Note: If the warning light illuminates while driving, stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so, gently applying the brakes. Check the fluid level and top up if necessary.

Check the fluid level at least once a week (more often with high mileage or severe operating conditions), with the vehicle parked on a level surface.

Important: Seek qualified assistance immediately if the brake pedal feels softer than usual or if the brake fluid level drops significantly. Driving under such conditions can increase braking distance or lead to complete brake failure.

Topping Up Clutch/Brake Fluid:

Brake fluid can damage paintwork. Immediately wipe up any spills with an absorbent material and wash the area with an automotive shampoo solution.

Use only new fluid from a sealed container (fluid from opened containers or previously drained fluid may contain moisture, which can negatively affect performance and should not be used).

Top up with Shell DOT4 ESL brake fluid. If unavailable, use compatible synthetic DOT4 brake fluid with low viscosity, conforming to ISO 4925 Class 6 and Land Rover specification LRES22BF03. Only this type and standard of brake fluid is permitted.

Do not overfill the brake fluid reservoir to the maximum level (unless new brake pads have been fitted). If in doubt, consult a specialist.

1. Add fluid to the reservoir to at least the minimum mark.
2. Replace the reservoir cap.
3. Replace the reservoir cover.

Checking Windshield Washer Fluid Level

The fluid level should be between the 'MIN' and 'MAX' marks.

Note: Under normal operating conditions, the level may decrease slightly due to brake pad wear, but should not fall below the 'MIN' mark.

Caution: Do not allow windshield washer fluid to come into contact with open flames or sources of ignition.

If the vehicle is operated at temperatures below 4°C (40°F), use a freeze-protected windshield washer fluid.

Use only approved windshield washer fluids.

Avoid spills, especially when using undiluted fluids or highly concentrated solutions. If spills occur, immediately rinse the affected area with water.

Topping Up Windshield Washer Fluid:

The washer fluid is dispensed to the windshield and rear window nozzles, as well as the headlight washer nozzles.

Check the fluid level in the reservoir and top up at least once a week. Always top up washer fluid to prevent freezing.

Periodically activate the washers to check the operation of the nozzles and their alignment.

1. Before removing the filler cap, clean it to prevent dirt from entering the reservoir.
2. Remove the filler cap.
3. Fill the reservoir until the fluid is visible in the filler neck.
4. Replace the filler cap.