We imported a Freelander to Canada from the UK a year ago. It is a 2001 model.

Over the course of the year, the automatic transmission is getting really clunky in the lower gears. Once it gets going, it runs beautifully.

We had it examined at the local dealer (mega bucks!!) and they have said:

"...transmission has reoccuring codes P1748 for shift solenoids. May need new solenoids or all new valve block. If solenoids do not remedy issue entire new valve block will be the fix. Tech suggests all new valve block as there were known to be faulty/trip codes and solenoid replacement did not generally fix hard shift issues"

I've had a quote from Rimmer brothers for 1118.49 GBP for the valve block, and about 70GBP each for 9 solenoids.

Going on the comments about the faulty valve block, would it be easier to change that? What if the solenoids are still faulty?

If it is an inherent fault, why wasn't it faulty when we first bought it?

Any comments/advice would be gratefully received.

 

I've a similar issue but have procured an entire 2nd hand transmission with IRD attached from a low mileage wreck. Being in rural Australia, I have someone to remove and replace the tranny but instructions seem to be utterly unavailable...

 

the solenoids are available on line ( ebay / amazon etc ) for around $200 for a good set....might as well replace them all while it's apart......they ( there are 9 of them total) can be installed without removing the transmission, use the oem spec fluid 4.25 quarts IIRC . My daughter's '03 was "clunky" in first and second for quite a while, and then it went into limp mode..stuck in fourth gear............the solenoids cured it ......drives normal now. The solsnoids are controling the flow of fluid through the valve body, so as long as the fluid doesnt appear to be burnt IMO the valve body should be ok