What Causes These 4.4 TDV8 Issues – And How We Put Them Right Properly
The root causes are usually down to design compromises mixed with real-world driving. Long oil change intervals let sludge build up and starve bearings. The crank runs narrow bearings for less friction, but that means zero tolerance for oil starvation. Cold UK winters make chains stretch faster, and stop-start traffic murders turbos and DPFs.
When we rebuild one, we don’t just slap it back together. Every engine gets stripped to the block, hot-tank cleaned, crank polished or replaced, new bearings with correct clearances, upgraded oil pump drive where needed, and full timing kit with latest spec parts. We bring it back to – or better than – factory standard, then dyno test it before it leaves the workshop.
RR4X4works vs Local Suppliers – Why We’re Miles Better?
Local garages and random suppliers often cut corners to keep prices low, but that just leads to the same engine failing again in a few months. We’re different – every rebuilder on our platform follows proper factory-level checks and fixes, so you get an engine that actually lasts.
Here’s a straightforward comparison of the most common 4.4 TDV8/SDV8 problems and how they’re handled:
| Problem | Typical Local Supplier Approach | RR4X4works Vetted Rebuilder Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Crankshaft snapping | Often just replace engine, no root cause check | Full strip-down, check bearings & oil ways, upgrade oil pump drive if needed, balance crank properly |
| Timing chain stretch/tensioner failure | Replace chain only if obviously worn | Always replace full chain kit, guides, tensioners & check oil pressure thoroughly |
| Oil pump failure | Fit new pump, hope for the best | Inspect drive hex, replace with upgraded part, clean all oil galleries |
| Turbo actuator or bearing failure | Refurb one turbo or replace with cheap pattern part | Genuine or OEM turbos, full actuator calibration, balance check |
| DPF blocking/carbon build-up | Basic forced regen or ignore it | Deep carbon clean of engine, DPF, intercooler & EGR before fitting |
| EGR cooler leaks | Patch or bypass (illegal & risky) | Replace with new, pressure test cooling system |
| Intercooler hose splits | Tape or cheap replacement hose | Genuine hoses fitted, full boost leak test |
| Injector wear | Clean or leave alone | Test all injectors, replace any out of spec |
You can see the difference straight away. Locals might get you running cheaper and quicker, but we make sure every weak point is properly sorted.
We’ve seen too many engines come to us after a “budget” rebuild failed the same way twice. Our way costs a bit more upfront sometimes, but it saves you thousands long-term.
Spotting the Right 4.4 Engine for Your Range Rover – It’s More Important Than You Think
Getting the exact matching engine is absolutely critical. Fit the wrong spec and you’ll have ECU errors, poor performance, or even more damage down the line. The 4.4 diesel comes in several variants across models and years, and they’re not all interchangeable.
Here’s a quick reference table:
| Model Year | Model | Engine Code | Power Output | Key Identification Features | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2007–2012 | Range Rover L322 | 4.4 TDV8 | 313 hp | VIN digit 10 = 7–C, engine bay label 448DT | BMW-era electronics, no AdBlue |
| 2009–2013 | Range Rover Sport L320 | 4.4 TDV8 | 313 hp | Similar to L322, check exhaust layout | Slightly different turbo positioning |
| 2012–2017 | Range Rover L405 | 4.4 SDV8 | 339 hp | VIN digit 10 = D–H, higher boost pressure | Updated mapping, often AdBlue from 2015 |
| 2013–2017 | Range Rover Sport L494 | 4.4 SDV8 | 339 hp | Eight-speed ZF box standard | Improved cooling system |
| 2017+ | Range Rover L405 facelift | 4.4 SDV8 | 339 hp | AdBlue standard, newer ECU software | Mild hybrid variants in later years |
Always go by VIN – it’s the only 100% accurate way. We check every quote against your VIN so there’s no guesswork.
Real-Life Nightmare: Wrong Engine Fitted – And How We Sorted It
A customer came to us last year with a 2014 L405 that kept throwing gearbox and engine faults after a “local specialist” fitted what they thought was the right 4.4. Turns out they’d used an earlier TDV8 block with wrong crank sensor positioning. The car barely ran, turbos were spiking, and the owner was facing another full strip-down.
We recovered the vehicle free of charge, sourced the correct SDV8 unit, transferred all the good ancillaries across properly, and got him back on the road with a full 24-month warranty. He saved over £4,000 compared to main dealer prices and hasn’t had a single issue since.
Stories like this happen far too often when people don’t double-check compatibility.
How RR4X4works Makes Getting a 4.4 Engine Easy?
You’re stuck with a poorly Range Rover, maybe stranded somewhere, worrying about massive bills and weeks off the road. We get it – we’ve been there ourselves as owners and rebuilders.
Just send us your VIN (or reg if you prefer), and within minutes we’ll send you 30+ proper quotes from trusted specialists near you (or wherever the car needs to go). You compare prices, warranties, and reviews in one place, then choose the one you like. We’ll arrange recovery if needed, courtesy car if available, and even sort 0% finance through Klarna or PayPal so you’re not paying everything upfront.
Your Journey from Broken Engine to Driving Again – Simple Steps
It all starts with that VIN number. Send it over, we match it exactly to the right engine spec, and fire out quotes tailored to your model. You pick the best deal, we organise collection or recovery (often free or heavily subsidised), and your car goes to one of our vetted workshops.
While it’s there you’ll get video updates showing exactly what’s wrong and how it’s being fixed. New engine goes in after full carbon clean and DPF service, everything’s tested, and you drive away with proper warranty and peace of mind. Whole process usually takes days, not weeks.
Checklist After Your 4.4 Engine Rebuild or Replacement
Once you’ve got your Range Rover back, here’s what to keep an eye on for the first few weeks:
- Check oil level weekly – these engines use a bit until everything beds in properly
- Listen for any unusual rattles on cold start (should disappear within a minute)
- Make sure no warning lights appear and restricted performance mode doesn’t kick in
- Drive gently for the first 500 miles – no full throttle or towing
- Book the first service at the recommended interval (usually 1,000–2,000 miles for a check-over)
- Keep an eye on coolant level – any drop needs investigating straight away
- Note any smoke on hard acceleration – blue or excessive black isn’t normal
- Test all electrics and air suspension – sometimes batteries go flat during long jobs
Tick these off and you’ll spot any teething issues early.
Land Rover & Range Rover Replacement Engines
Find the Right Replacement Engine for Your Model, Year & Driving Needs
Unsure which replacement engine is right for your Land Rover or Range Rover? Let RR4x4works cut through the confusion. Simply select your vehicle to see all compatible options side-by-side—including approved used and fully reconditioned engines. Instantly compare quotes, warranty terms, and local specialist fitters for your specific Discovery, Range Rover Sport, or Defender. It's the straightforward way to make a confident choice for your vehicle and your budget.
Discovery 3 Engines , Discovery 4 Engines , Discovery 5 Engines , Discovery Sport Engine
Best-Selling
Used & Reconditioned Land Rover & Range Rover Engines Across the UK
These are our most sought-after engines, representing the best balance of availability, proven rebuild protocols, and customer satisfaction.
What are the most reliable replacement engines you source?RANGE ROVER SPORT (L494) 4.4 D 4x4
RANGE ROVER VOGUE (L322) 4.4 4x4
RANGE ROVER VOGUE (L322) 4.4 D 4x4
RANGE ROVER VOGUE (L322) 4.4 D 4x4
RANGE ROVER VOGUE (L322) 4.4 D V8 4x4
RANGE ROVER VOGUE (L322) 4.4 4x4
RANGE ROVER SPORT (L320) 4.4 4x4
DISCOVERY 3 (L319) 4.4 4x4
Popular
Land Rover & Range Rover Engine Sizes – The Most Requested Replacement Engines
We specialise in the engines that power the UK's Land Rovers. Our inventory and expertise cover high-demand units known for both performance and specific failure points, ensuring we have the right solution.
Which Land Rover engine sizes do you most commonly supply and rebuild?Testimonials of
Happy Customers
“When the big ends went, I thought it was the end for my Disco 3. RR4x4 Works presented a clear choice: a gamble on a used engine or a proper rebuild that would last. Their explanation about the oil cooler and uprated bearings made the rebuild the obvious long-term decision. The process was transparent, and getting the old crankshaft and bearings back in a box showed exactly what had failed. It wasn't a quick fix, but it was the right fix. The car now drives better than it has in years.”
“When my Disco’s engine exploded, I was devastated. RR4x4 Works explained that a used engine was a lottery, but a rebuild with a stronger crankshaft could actually make it more reliable than before. Seeing the snapped crank made the problem real. Their thorough approach, rebuilding the turbos and everything, gave me total confidence. Yes, it was an investment, but I now have my vehicle back with a known, warrantied engine that should last for years. Exceptional, honest service.”
“I’d been topping up coolant for months, and two garages told me it was ‘probably a small external leak’ or the pressure cap. RR4x4 Works did a simple test with blue liquid and immediately showed me bubbles – proof the leak was inside the engine. Their explanation of sending the head to be tested and machined made total sense compared to just swapping the gasket. The repair was thorough, included the timing chain, and now my Disco 5 runs perfectly with no temperature warnings. Finally, a permanent fix.”
“My Discovery Sport was a mess – smoking, shaking, and drinking coolant. I was braced for a head gasket bill. RR4x4 Works did a proper test and found combustion gas straight away, but they also smelled diesel in the coolant. They explained it could be a cracked head and the injector seals, and that just doing the gasket was a huge risk. Getting the head tested and welded made complete sense. Now, it runs perfectly, with no leaks or smoke. Their thoroughness saved me from a comeback job and got it right first time.”
“My Discovery was becoming a smoke machine and felt sluggish. I was worried it needed a full engine rebuild. RR4x4 Works checked the turbo shaft, found it was loose, and showed me all the oil in the intercooler pipes. Their explanation that a new turbo was the logical first and most likely fix made perfect sense. They cleaned everything out properly and now it runs like new, with no smoke and plenty of power. A clear, honest diagnosis that saved me from a much bigger bill.”
“When my turbo exploded on the M1, the recovery driver said ‘just needs a new turbo.’ RR4x4 Works found the real problem: a solid, blocked oil pipe. They explained that just bolting on a new turbo would have been like fixing a burst pipe without turning off the water main. Flushing the whole system and replacing all the lines made total sense. It wasn't the cheapest quote, but it was the only one that explained the why. The car now drives perfectly, and I know it won't happen again next week.”
“Everywhere I called said ‘head gasket’ as soon as I mentioned white smoke and coolant. RR4x4 Works did a simple test that proved it wasn’t the head. They found the leak was in the EGR cooler and explained exactly how the coolant was getting into the engine. Cleaning out the whole intake system and intercooler was a revelation – the amount of gunk that came out was shocking. Now it runs cleanly, doesn’t use a drop of coolant, and the oil is clean. Their diagnostic skill saved me from an unnecessary and massive repair bill.”
“The startup rattle on my Range Rover was so bad it was embarrassing. RR4x4 Works diagnosed it immediately as timing guides. They explained that just fixing the broken ones would be a temporary patch, as the others were just as old. Doing the full job on both sides made complete sense for a permanent solution. The difference is night and day – it now starts as quietly as a new car. Their expertise saved me from a future breakdown and a second huge labour bill.”
“The startup rattle on my Evoque was getting worse. RR4x4 Works didn't just listen to it; they hooked up computers and pressure gauges. They showed me the data that the chain was stretched and explained that just changing it might not last if the oil pressure wasn't spot on. Replacing the pump at the same time made total sense for a long-term fix. The process was clear, and now the car starts silently every time. They treat the cause, not just the symptom.”
“The startup rattle on my Evoque was getting worse. RR4x4 Works didn't just listen to it; they hooked up computers and pressure gauges. They showed me the data that the chain was stretched and explained that just changing it might not last if the oil pressure wasn't spot on. Replacing the pump at the same time made total sense for a long-term fix. The process was clear, and now the car starts silently every time. They treat the cause, not just the symptom.”
“My Evoque was becoming a smoke machine and felt sluggish. I was worried it needed a full engine rebuild. RR4x4 Works checked the turbo shaft, found it was loose, and showed me all the oil in the intercooler pipes. Their explanation that a new turbo was the logical first and most likely fix made perfect sense. They cleaned everything out properly and now it runs like new, with no smoke and plenty of power. A clear, honest diagnosis that saved me from a much bigger bill.”
“I was going in circles with my Sport – it kept overheating but never leaked a drop on my driveway. The smell inside was worrying. RR4x4 Works used a smoke machine and showed me exactly where it was leaking from under the supercharger. Their explanation about all the internal seals ageing together made complete sense. Doing the full set of seals while it was off the car was the only logical choice. Now it runs cool and the smell is gone. Expert diagnosis and a proper, lasting fix.”
“When I saw that brown gunk on the dipstick, I feared the worst. RR4x4 Works diagnosed the oil cooler straight away but stressed that just changing it wasn't enough. Their explanation about the abrasive sludge hiding everywhere made perfect sense. Their process of flushing, cleaning the turbo lines, and even the intercooler was thorough. They showed me the clogged oil pickup screen – it was frightening. Now the oil is crystal clear, and it runs perfectly. They didn't take shortcuts, and that's why I trust them.”
"The startup rattle on my Supercharged Sport was so loud it was embarrassing. RR4x4 Works diagnosed it immediately as timing guides. They explained that just fixing the broken ones would be a temporary patch, as the others were just as old. Doing the full job on both sides made complete sense for a permanent solution. The difference is night and day – it now starts as quietly as a new car. Their expertise saved me from a future breakdown and a second huge labour bill."
“The startup rattle on my Range Rover was so bad it was embarrassing. RR4x4 Works diagnosed it immediately as timing guides. They explained that just fixing the broken ones would be a temporary patch, as the others were just as old. Doing the full job on both sides made complete sense for a permanent solution. The difference is night and day – it now starts as quietly as a new car. Their expertise saved me from a future breakdown and a second huge labour bill.”
“My Range Rover was drinking coolant and overheating, but no garage could find the leak. RR4x4 Works used a smoke machine and showed me exactly where it was escaping – from under the supercharger. Their explanation about the internal seals made perfect sense. They recommended replacing the whole set and the coupler while it was apart, which stopped me worrying about the next failure. The repair was thorough, and now it runs cool and holds coolant perfectly. Exceptional diagnostic skill and honest advice.”
“After weeks of worrying about the rattle and scary oil light, the team at RR4x4 Works took the time to show me the diagnostic data and explain exactly why just doing the chains might not last. They presented the different options clearly without any pressure. Choosing the full repair was a decision based on understanding, not fear. The car has been silent and perfect ever since, and I have total confidence in it again. This is how all car repairs should be handled.”
“I brought my Evoque in with that horrible cold start rattle, terrified the engine was about to blow. The team at RR4x4 Works didn’t just give me a quote; they took the time to show me the diagnostic codes, explain exactly why the front and rear parts needed doing, and laid out my options without any pressure. The difference now is incredible—it starts like a new car and the power is back. I have complete confidence that this fix is permanent. Their thoroughness and expertise are worth every penny.”
“I was going in circles with my Sport – it kept overheating but never leaked a drop on my driveway. The smell inside was worrying. RR4x4 Works used a smoke machine and showed me exactly where it was leaking from under the supercharger. Their explanation about all the internal seals ageing together made complete sense. Doing the full set of seals while it was off the car was the only logical choice. Now it runs cool and the smell is gone. Expert diagnosis and a proper, lasting fix.”
“My Velar had become embarrassing to drive – juddering at lights and sounding like a diesel. RR4x4 Works didn’t just guess; they showed me the camera footage of the clogged valves and explained the timing chain data. Opting for the full repair made complete sense. I got my car back feeling and sounding like new. Their thorough approach saved me time and money in the long run, and I finally enjoy driving it again.”
“After my Vogue started looking sorry for itself every morning, I dreaded a huge bill. RR4x4 Works found not one, but two separate leaks. They explained how just doing the spring would likely lead to the compressor failing soon after. Their approach of fixing the whole problem made complete sense. The repair was efficient, and the car now sits perfectly level all the time. Their knowledge saved me from a future breakdown and expense.”