Starting and Operating Your Land Rover

Steering Column Lock

The steering column lock is integrated with the starter switch. To unlock, insert the key into the starter switch. To lock, remove the key from the starter switch. Ensure the gear selector is in Park (P) before removing the key. Warning: The vehicle cannot be steered with the steering column locked. Do not remove the key while driving. Note: Do not keep the removed key near the starter switch, as this may cause the steering column lock to engage continuously, draining the battery.

If your vehicle is equipped with a steering column lock, it is combined with the starter switch and located as shown in the illustration.

Starter Switch Positions

The starter switch controls the steering column lock, electrical circuits, and starter motor. It has the following positions:

OFF (Выкл.)

• Steering column is locked (key removed).
• Most lighting circuits are active, including side lights, headlights, and hazard warning lights.
• With the driver's door open, seat position switches and seat memory functions operate.

Position I

• Steering column is unlocked.
• The steering wheel adjusts to its set working position.
• Clock, audio system, and cigarette lighter operate.

Position II

• All instruments, warning lights, and electrical systems are on.

Position III

• Initiates the starting sequence. Note: During engine cranking, the electrical circuits activated by turning the key to Position I are temporarily interrupted.
• Note: Before starting the engine, the gear selector must be in Park (P) or Neutral (N).

Starting - Gasoline Models

Warning: Do not start or run the engine in enclosed spaces. Exhaust gases are toxic and can cause unconsciousness or death if inhaled.

Before starting the engine and driving, familiarize yourself with the precautions in the section on the CATALYTIC CONVERTER, page 237. Remember: If the engine does not start, prolonged starter operation can damage the catalytic converter due to unburned fuel.

1. Ensure the parking brake is engaged and set the gear selector to Park (P) or Neutral (N).
2. Turn off all unnecessary electrical equipment.
3. Turn the starter switch to Position I, then to Position III to start the engine. Do not press the accelerator pedal when starting. Release the key as soon as the engine begins to turn over (it will continue to rotate automatically until the engine starts).

If the engine stalls or does not start, turn the starter switch back to Position I before attempting to restart. The engine will not start if the starter switch is in Position II.

Caution: If the engine fails to start, do not continue cranking, as this will discharge the battery. It may also damage the catalytic converter by allowing unburned fuel to pass through the exhaust system.

Note: Once the engine starts, the battery charge and oil pressure warning lights should go out.

Cold Climate

In very cold climates, the oil pressure warning light may stay on for a few seconds. Engine cranking time also increases. At temperatures of -25 °C (-13 °F), the starter may need to crank continuously for up to 30 seconds. For optimal battery performance in these conditions, turn off all unnecessary electrical equipment.

After Starting

Before moving the gear selector from Neutral (N) or Park (P), ensure the parking brake is fully engaged, the brake pedal is pressed, and the accelerator pedal is not pressed. Otherwise, the vehicle may move immediately after selecting Drive (D) or Reverse (R). This is especially important with a cold engine, as idle speed will be higher than normal.

Note: Before shifting from Park (P) or Neutral (N) to a driving position, you must press the brake pedal.

Starting - Diesel Models

Warning: Do not start or run the engine in enclosed spaces. Exhaust gases are toxic and can cause unconsciousness or poisoning if inhaled.

Before starting the engine and driving, familiarize yourself with the precautions in the section on the CATALYTIC CONVERTER, page 237.

1. Ensure the parking brake is engaged and set the gear selector to Park (P) or Neutral (N).
2. Turn off all unnecessary electrical equipment.
3. Insert the key and turn the starter switch to Position II. Wait for the pre-glow indicator light to go out.
4. Note: The waiting time depends on the coolant temperature (if the engine is hot, the pre-glow indicator may go out immediately or not illuminate at all).
5. To start the engine, turn the key to Position III. Do not press the accelerator pedal when starting. Release the key as soon as the engine starts.

If the engine stalls or does not start, turn the starter switch back to Position I before attempting to restart. The engine will not start if the starter switch is in Position II.

Caution: If the engine fails to start, do not continue cranking, as this will discharge the battery.

In moderate climates, do not operate the starter for more than 10 seconds. If the engine does not start, turn it off and wait 10 seconds before restarting.

Note: Prolonged starter operation not only drains the battery but can also damage the starter.

Note: Once the engine starts, the battery charge and oil pressure warning lights should go out.

Caution: Engine speed should not exceed idle speed until the oil pressure warning light goes out. This ensures proper lubrication of the engine and turbocharger bearings. Also, before shutting off the engine, let it idle for 10 seconds.

Cold Climate

In very cold climates, the oil pressure warning light may stay on for a few seconds. Engine cranking time also increases. At temperatures of -25 °C (-13 °F), the starter may need to crank continuously for up to 30 seconds. For optimal battery performance, turn off all unnecessary electrical equipment.

After Starting

Before moving the gear selector from Neutral (N) or Park (P), ensure the parking brake is fully engaged, the brake pedal is pressed, and the accelerator pedal is not pressed. Otherwise, the vehicle may move immediately after selecting Drive (D) or Reverse (R). This is especially important with a cold engine, as idle speed will be higher than normal.

Note: Before shifting from Park (P) or Neutral (N) to a driving position, you must press the brake pedal.

General Driving Recommendations

Instruments and Warning Indicators

Before using the vehicle, it is important to understand the functions of the instruments and warning lights. See INSTRUMENT CLUSTER, page 114. Caution: Red warning indicators, which indicate a malfunction, are particularly important. If a red warning indicator illuminates, stop the vehicle and seek qualified assistance before continuing your journey.

Power Steering

Note: Power steering operation depends on engine operation. If the engine is not running, more effort is required to turn the steering wheel.

Warm-up

For fuel economy, it is recommended to start driving immediately. However, avoid sudden acceleration or high engine speeds until the engine reaches operating temperature, as this can cause engine damage. With a cold engine, idle speed is higher than normal. In these conditions, control the vehicle using the brake pedal until the engine warms up and idles normally, and perform maneuvers more carefully.

Break-in

Proper break-in directly affects the reliability and smoothness of the vehicle's operation throughout its service life. The engine, transmission, brakes, and tires require time to adapt to daily use. During the first 800 km (500 miles) of driving, consider the break-in process and follow these recommendations:

• Limit maximum road speed to 110 km/h (70 mph) or engine speed to 3000 rpm. Start from a standstill with light accelerator pedal pressure, and gradually increase engine speed after the break-in period.
• Do not fully depress the accelerator pedal while driving, and avoid placing excessive load on the engine in any gear.
• Avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking unless required for safety.
• Remember that regular maintenance is crucial for checking brake pad wear and replacing them periodically to ensure long-term operation and optimal performance.

Maintenance Requirements

Vehicles driven in severe conditions, such as dust, mud, wet ground, or those that frequently cross deep water, require more frequent maintenance. Consult your dealer or a Land Rover technical center. After driving through saltwater or sandy areas, wash the lower body components and unprotected panels with fresh water. This helps maintain the vehicle's appearance and prevents reduced effectiveness of the parking brake.

Fuel Economy

Fuel consumption is influenced by two main factors: the vehicle's condition and driving style. For optimal fuel economy, maintain the vehicle according to the manufacturer's service schedule. Factors such as the condition of the air filter elements, tire pressure, and wheel alignment significantly impact fuel consumption, but driving style is the most important. The following conditions help improve vehicle operating parameters:

• Avoid short trips with frequent stops unless necessary.
• Avoid abrupt acceleration from a standstill; press the accelerator pedal gently and smoothly.
• Anticipate obstacles and adjust your speed accordingly.
• For optimal fuel economy and air conditioning, select Neutral (N) during brief stops.
• Turn off the air conditioning if it is not needed.

Vehicle Height

Caution: The vehicle's overall height is greater than that of typical passenger cars. Be aware of your vehicle's height and always check clearance on routes with height restrictions. This is especially important for vehicles with a roof rack or an open sunroof.

• Use lower gears only when necessary.
• Slow down smoothly, avoiding abrupt and hard braking.

Vehicle Stability

Warning: SUVs have a significantly higher rollover moment than other types of vehicles. As these vehicles are designed for off-road use, they have increased ground clearance, resulting in a higher center of gravity. This characteristic increases the risk of rollover. The advantage of increased ground clearance is improved visibility, allowing you to anticipate difficult situations. Another factor increasing rollover risk is unauthorized modifications to the vehicle's structure, such as installing incorrect tires (see WHEELS AND TIRES, page 405), oversized tires, lifting the body, non-standard springs and/or shock absorbers, improper loading, or towing a trailer.

However, accident data shows that driver behavior is a more significant factor than a high center of gravity. The single most effective behavior to prevent injury and save lives is wearing seat belts and using appropriate child restraint systems. A person not wearing a seat belt is at significantly greater risk of serious injury or death in a rollover than someone who is properly restrained.

Additional measures to reduce the risk of injury and death in accidents and rollovers:

• Limit your speed. Never exceed posted speed limits, and reduce speed if road or weather conditions require it. Always use common sense and sound judgment.
• Take corners at appropriate speeds, avoiding excessive braking.
• Drive cautiously. Be aware of road and weather conditions in advance. Avoid risky driving behavior, such as tailgating, frequent lane changes, and abrupt maneuvers.
• Do not forget that pedestrians and other drivers may make mistakes. Assume they will, and be prepared for their errors.
• Avoid distractions such as phone calls, reading, eating, or drinking, or attempting to pick up objects from the floor.
• Before changing lanes, check mirrors and use turn signals.
• Always leave a safety margin for unexpected actions, such as sudden braking.
• Do not drive under the influence of alcohol, while drowsy or fatigued, or after taking medication that impairs judgment, reflexes, or alertness.

Warning: Vehicle rollovers often occur when a driver attempts to return the vehicle to the road after some or all wheels have gone off the edge, especially on unpaved shoulders. In such a situation, do not make sudden steering or braking movements to return to the road. Instead, reduce speed as much as possible and keep the wheels pointed straight ahead as much as possible.

Breakdown Safety

In case of a breakdown during a journey:

• Whenever possible, and considering road safety measures and conditions, move the vehicle off the road, preferably to the shoulder, as far as possible.
• Turn on the hazard warning lights.
• If possible, place a warning triangle or turn on a flashing amber light at an appropriate distance behind the vehicle to warn other road users of the breakdown (remember that in some countries this is a legal requirement).
• Evacuate passengers from the vehicle to a safe area through doors opposite the direction of traffic, as a precaution against impact from other vehicles.

Before Driving Off-Road

Before driving off-road, drivers should familiarize themselves with the operation of the vehicle's controls, especially the high and low range selector, the CommandShift manual gear selection, and the Hill Descent Control (HDC) system. Basic information and techniques for off-road driving are provided in the Off-Road Driving Guide on the website: http://www.ownerinfo.landrover.com. For those who intend to drive off-road, it is recommended to complete a relevant training course. Training can be taken at a Land Rover training center. More detailed information is available at http://www.landroverexperience.com.

Fording

Caution: The maximum recommended wading depth is 500 mm (20 inches). Regular wading in depths greater than recommended is not advised.

If the vehicle remains stationary in water with the level above the door sills, significant damage to the electrical system may occur. Do not switch off the engine while fording. If the engine stalls during fording, restart it immediately. If the engine stalls, have the vehicle inspected by a dealer or Land Rover technical center as soon as possible. If water enters the engine's air intake during fording, switch off the engine immediately. The vehicle should be towed out of the water and taken to a dealer or Land Rover technical center for repair.

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)

The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is part of the emission control system installed in Land Rover vehicles. The DPF removes most harmful carbon micro-spheres (soot) before they exit the exhaust system. This is achieved by filtering fine particles that accumulate and then burn off, emptying the filter.

Regeneration

Caution: The regeneration process generates high temperatures in the DPF. The area under the vehicle may become very hot; this is normal and not a sign of malfunction. However, do not park the vehicle over flammable materials, especially in dry weather. The heat generated may be sufficient to ignite nearby flammable materials such as grass, paper, etc.

Unlike a conventional filter that requires periodic replacement, the DPF regenerates or self-cleans to maintain its effectiveness. In most cases, the regeneration process occurs automatically. However, in certain unfavorable driving conditions, the driver may need to initiate the regeneration process.

Regeneration Procedure

If the information display shows the message FILTER DPF FULL with a handbook symbol, follow this procedure. Note: During this procedure, observe relevant speed limits, rules, and regulations. Always consider road and weather conditions and drive with consideration for other traffic.

1. Warm up the engine by driving it to normal operating temperature. Do not warm up the engine at idle.
2. Continue driving for twenty minutes at a speed above 80 km/h (50 mph).
3. If regeneration is successful, the warning light will go out (or the message will disappear). Otherwise, repeat the procedure.

Note: If the warning light does not go out (or the message does not disappear) after three regeneration attempts, contact your dealer or a Land Rover technical center.

Warning Lights and Messages

Caution: Failure to take appropriate action when a warning light or message appears may lead to damage to the engine and the diesel particulate filter system, increased exhaust emissions, and costly repairs.

If regeneration is not performed automatically by the system (e.g., due to short trips), the driver will be alerted by a warning light or message.

FILTER DPF FULL

When this message appears, the driver should initiate the regeneration procedure for the diesel particulate filter as soon as possible.

FILTER DPF FULL RETURN TO DEALER

When this message appears, the vehicle must be taken to a dealer or Land Rover technical center as soon as possible.

Emission Control System

Warning: Exhaust gases contain poisonous substances that can cause unconsciousness or even death.

• Do not inhale exhaust gases.
• Do not start or leave the engine running in enclosed, unventilated areas, or drive with the tailgate open.
• Do not make structural modifications to the exhaust system.
• Immediately repair any leaks in the exhaust system.
• If you suspect exhaust gases are entering the vehicle cabin, take immediate steps to identify and rectify the fault.

Land Rover vehicles are equipped with an emission control and exhaust gas removal system in accordance with numerous regional requirements. In many countries, it is illegal for vehicle owners to make structural modifications or alterations to the exhaust gas emission control equipment, and penalties apply for making such modifications or replacing it. In such cases, both the vehicle owner and repair facility representatives are legally liable. It is important to remember that Land Rover dealers and technical centers have the necessary equipment for the repair and maintenance of the vehicle's exhaust gas emission control system. Caution: If the vehicle runs out of fuel while operating, it may cause misfires. This could damage the exhaust gas emission control system.