1997 Land Rover Discovery brakes problems

Filed May 27, 2012 · Brakes · 88,243 miles · CT

Right front ABS sensor malfunction. Unable to stop due to ABS engaging. Vibrated vehicle out into intersection. Lucky enough to avoid being t-boned by accelerating hard. Happened numerous times since. Upon researching problem found it to be common in 97 discovery. Also found most people have wound ip removing ABS fuse due to problem recurring even after repair. Should have been a recall many years ago. Land rover needs to take responsibility and fix the issue.

Filed Jul 20, 2004 · Acceleration, Brakes · NC

Surging at fully closed throttle accompanied by ABS failure is a real issue with this vehicle. This is a common problem acknowledged by the manufacturer. Prm chip replacement to fix the surge problem should be a safety recall. My 1997 land rover discovery would not stop at a stop light when letting off the accelerator because the rpms surged on the vehicle. Upon attempting to depress the brakes the ABS malfunctioned causing the vehicle to continue to accelerate due to lack of brakes and an elevated RPM level. This is an electronic defect that needs immediate attention due to the number of vehicles which experience this problem and the acknowledgment by the manufacturer that RPM surging at fully closed throttle requires the replacement of a revised chip to remedy this. This vehicle is of no use to me because it is unsafe to operate and thus unsuitable for road use. I am seriously considering contacting other sources/media outlets to investigate this common problem.

Filed Jul 7, 2002 · Brakes · FL

Brakes frequently fail to stop vehicle at speeds under 20mph. Dealer stated it was a bad ABS sensor on right front wheel. It was replaced at a cost of $500.00 but the problem remained. I see from internet postings it is a common problem in '97 discoveries. The real hazard is that it does not matter how much force is applied to te brake pedal, the vehicle will not stop. I see from other complaints posted on this site that a suggestion is to disconnect theabs system. Is this acceptable to the federal safety agency? How about a saftey recall before someone is killed. Including me.

Filed Jun 13, 2002 · Brakes · OH

It has been impossible to keep these sensors in working condition for more than a month. After searching the internet newsgroups, it is clear that this is a very common problem across all 97 discovery. The generally accepted advice is to disconnect the ABS because it will never work. In my opinion, if we have reached the point where the generally accepted advice is to disconnect this important safety feature, the manufacturer has a problem.

Filed Jun 5, 2002 · Brakes · TX

While driving at low speed applies brakes and vehicle does not come to a complete stop. Dealer has been notified, mechanic states ABS system sensors are not operating properly, and need to be replaced because defective ABS brakes cause extended stopping distance.

Filed Sep 11, 2001 · Brakes · MI

At low rates of speed, in dry weather conditions, the brakes fail to work properly. On many occasions, soon after starting to drive in a forward gear, not yet in reverse (usually on a warm motor, after a short time not running) the brakes fail to engage fully and the vehicle fails to stop. The driver can literally stand on the pedal, and the vehicle slows only slightly. It has always occurred after backing out of a parking space.

Filed Aug 16, 2001 · Brakes · CA

When vehicle comes to a stop ABS system would lock up wheels. Brake pedal would go to floor and feel mushy. There was extended stopping distance. Had taken vehicle to dealership at least 20 or more times for brake problems. Mechanic indicated either hand cable/ brake cable, "t"box or brake pads had to be replaced due to some type of enlargement during heat. Problem would always return.

Filed Oct 27, 2000 · Brakes · MD

Anti-lock system activates at low speed after reversing from a parking space while traveling forward at random times. Full pedal force is required to stop vehicle speeds 10-20 MPH then condition clears for hours or days.

Filed Aug 17, 2000 · Acceleration, Brakes · MA

On several occasions, dashboard went blank while driving losing all power, dealer found that the security system had failed, causing it to cut the ignition switch, then after happening again dealer said the problem was casued by a defective crank shaft sensor.

Filed Jan 24, 2000 · Brakes · MI · crash

When the brake pedal is applied sometimes the pedal goes to the floor, and sometime it's hard. Brakes do not respond in some situations. Also, the anti-lock system makes a grinding noise when it activates, but it does not respond. Vehicle has been in three accidents because of this problem. The dealer has been notified.