Freelander Diesel Cuts Out: Crankshaft Sensor Issues?

Hey there! I have some experience working on cars, and your symptoms sound very familiar. I had a similar issue with my 2007 Land Rover Discovery diesel last year. The symptoms were exactly like yours, unusual stalling, rough starts, and that annoying check engine light. After struggling with it for a week, I took it to my regular mechanic. Turned out the crankshaft sensor wiring harness was damaged, causing intermittent connections. The repair cost me about 170 Euro, including parts and labor. Since then, it's been running like a charm! The symptoms you're describing really point to a crankshaft sensor issue, but it could also be something else. could you share: Any specific error codes you're getting? Does it happen more when the engine is cold or hot? Have you noticed any unusual noises? This would help me give you more specific advice based on my experience.

Thanks for sharing your experience! My Freelander just hit 182210 KM and had its last service two months ago. I'm getting error code P0335, and it definitely struggles more when cold. No unusual noises really, just the rough running when it starts acting up. The mechanics checked the fuel system during my last service but found nothing wrong there. What's interesting is that your Discovery had such similar symptoms. Did you notice any warning signs before it completely failed? I'm trying to figure out if I should take it in immediately or if I can drive it for a few more days until my regular mechanic has an opening. Really appreciate the detailed info about your repair costs too, helps me know what to expect!

Hey again! Thanks for those extra details, they're actually really helpful. Yeah, looking at your symptoms and that P0335 code, it's definitely the same issue I had with my Discovery. Before my sensor completely failed, I noticed the problems getting gradually worse over about a week. Started with occasional hesitation, then the cold starts got longer, and finally it would just die on me out of nowhere. I actually managed to drive it for about 4-5 days after the first symptoms, but honestly, I wouldn't recommend pushing it like I did. I got lucky! With your mileage being similar to what mine was (mine was around 175,000 KM when it happened), and especially with that specific error code, I'm pretty confident it's the same problem. The interesting thing is that fuel system checks often come back clear with this issue, that's exactly what happened with mine too. My advice? Don't wait like I did. The risk of getting stranded isn't worth it, and you might end up causing more damage. When mine finally gave up, I was stuck at a really inconvenient time! Plus, the repair is relatively straightforward and not too expensive compared to other potential issues. Just a heads up, make sure they check the wiring harness thoroughly, not just the sensor itself. In my case, they initially only replaced the sensor, but the problem came back after a few days because of the damaged wiring.

Thanks so much for the detailed advice! You've really convinced me not to wait on this repair. The similarity between our cases is uncanny, same symptoms, similar mileage, and even the fuel system checks coming back clear. I'll definitely call my mechanic first thing tomorrow and see if they can squeeze me in earlier. Really appreciate the tip about checking the wiring harness too, that's exactly the kind of insight I was hoping for when I posted here. I'd hate to end up getting stranded or causing more damage by pushing it too far. Better to spend a bit now than risk a bigger repair bill later! Thanks again for sharing your experience, it's been super helpful in making my decision. Will probably get a rental car for a few days while this gets sorted out.