Oil Leaks & Solenoid | 2020 Range Rover Velar

The 2020 Range Rover Velar came in with a scary situation. The owner said it was driving perfectly fine when, without any warning lights or symptoms, the engine suddenly shut off. After that, it wouldn’t restart and had to be towed into the shop. These are the kinds of problems that remind us why proper diagnostics always come before throwing parts at the vehicle.
Diagnosis
The Velar arrived with a completely dead battery. We attempted to charge it, but the battery failed to hold a charge, making replacement necessary before we could continue diagnostics. Once power was restored, we found multiple issues. The engine was leaking oil from the timing cam plug, the belt tensioner was producing a loud whining noise, and diagnostic testing revealed a fault code for the cooling oil control piston/solenoid. We also found additional concerns that needed attention to restore reliability and prevent future failures.
What Needs to Be Done
- Replaced the battery to continue diagnostics
- Performed complete diagnostic testing
- Replace the belt tensioner
- Replace the valve body assembly
- Perform required programming
- Install a new transmission oil pan kit
- Replace the coolant thermostat housing gasket
- Replace the oil cooling valve/solenoid
- Refill coolant and bled the cooling system
- Perform a fresh oil service using Liqui Moly premium engine oil
Pro Tip:
If you notice even a small oil leak, don’t wait. Oil can travel farther than you think, damaging sensors, wiring, belts, and other components. Catching the problem early can save you thousands and keep your Velar performing like a Land Rover should.
Result:
After completing the repairs, programming, and final testing, this Velar was back on the road running smoothly. No more oil leak, no more whining tensioner, proper transmission operation, and the cooling oil control system is functioning as it should. Sometimes a vehicle that just “shuts off” is actually dealing with several underlying issues that only a thorough diagnostic process can uncover.
Catch us every Friday for more shop talk.
And remember: Good work ain’t cheap. Cheap work ain’t good.
Euro Auto Tech & Smog | European Specialist | 7633 El Cajon Blvd #217, La Mesa, CA 91942


