LR Freelander Overheating: Coolant Pump Failure Signs?

Hey there! I had a similar issue with my 2010 Land Rover Discovery 4 diesel (had a Range Rover before that). I've got some experience working with cars, mainly basic maintenance stuff. When my engine started running hot with the warning light, I took it to my regular workshop. Turned out it was a faulty cable connection to the coolant pump control unit. The mechanic found it during diagnostics, the pump itself was fine, but the cable was causing intermittent issues. Total bill was around 220 Euro, including labor and parts. Before you jump to conclusions about the pump, could you share: Any unusual noises? Is your coolant level normal? Are you losing any coolant? Any other warning lights besides check engine? This might help narrow down if you're dealing with the same problem I had.

Thanks for your detailed response! Really appreciate the help. My coolant level seems fine and I'm not noticing any leaks, but there's a slight whining noise when accelerating. I had my latest service about 3,000 KM ago and everything was fine then. Currently at 85,588 KM, and this is the first major issue I've encountered. No other warning lights besides the check engine light. I'm hoping it's just a cable issue like yours and not the entire pump that needs replacing. Going to get it checked tomorrow, fingers crossed it's nothing too serious or expensive!

Hey again! That whining noise you mentioned, that actually rings a bell! My Discovery had a similar sound before I got it fixed. Since we're talking about similar generation Land Rovers, they share quite a few components. After reading about your current mileage and that noise, I'm even more convinced it could be similar to what I dealt with. My Discovery had about 90,000 KM when this happened. The whining noise in my case was definitely related to that faulty cable connection I mentioned before, it was causing the pump to work inconsistently, hence the noise during acceleration. Quick tip though, when you take it to the workshop tomorrow, make sure they check the belt tension too. In my case, they found the belt was slightly loose which was contributing to the whining noise. They adjusted it while fixing the cable issue. Let me know what they find! I'm curious if it turns out to be the same problem. These Land Rovers can be tricky sometimes, but once you sort these little electrical gremlins out, they run like a charm. Keep us posted!

I'll complete the conversation from's perspective: Thanks so much for that additional info! It's really reassuring to hear your experience was similar. The belt tension tip is particularly helpful, I hadn't even considered that could be contributing to the noise. Just got back from the workshop and you were spot on! It turned out to be a combination of issues, a loose belt and a damaged cable connection to the pump control unit, almost exactly like your situation. They fixed both problems and the whining noise is completely gone now. Total bill came to about 280 Euro, which isn't too bad considering I was worried I'd need a whole new pump. The engine's running at normal temperature again and the check engine light has cleared. Really glad I asked here before assuming the worst. Thanks again for sharing your experience, it helped me avoid unnecessary stress and prepared me for what to expect at the workshop! Really appreciate everyone's help with this. These Land Rovers definitely keep us on our toes, but they're worth it when everything's running smoothly!