Just scored a 96 Discovery SE a few days ago. I cannot stress this enough -- i know absolutely nothing about these vehicles. I'm an average shadetree mechanic at best, so i'm not totally ignorant ( i hope). Here goes -

For the life of me, i cannot figure out how to lock the damn doors. Keys faulty? Power locks faulty? When i lock the drivers door manually, all door locks spring open as soon as i shut the door. I feel like an idiot. The key will not lock the door from the outside. I give up.

The car makes a loud ticking noise ( almost like bad lifters or not enough oil) coupled with a pretty evident sound of air leaking sporadically. I've done a little research and i'm guessing it may be a blown head gasket.

It has 145000 miles, cosmetically it needs a cleaning and little TLC here and there. Mechanically, i'm out of my element right now. Any help, suggestions, insults would be welcome. All in all, i'm wondering if this thing is worth my time and, more importantly, my money to mess with. Keep in mind, the vehicle was given to me so i have zero dollars invested at this point. Thanks!!!

Tim
Nashville TN

 

Being that it was free, I think it deserves a little bit of a chance. I know I would. That's all I have to offer though... Good luck!

 

My '97 disco will ONLY lock the doors w/remote OR if I'm inside & lock w/button.
I believe it's so you cannot lock your keys in the ignition.

These engines are sludge MONSTERS (all aluminum) if previous owner did not change (high quality) oil regularly, it WILL start making lifter click - at least.
I use a GOOD engine flush every third oil change, ask around the forums.

I've also stopped coolant leaks w/ additive 6mos now & cleaned my maf sensor about a year ago - neither is guarenteed but worth a try.

 

On my 95, I have to first lock the passenger door from the inside by hand..then lock the drivers door with the key.

 

How do you clean the MAF sensor and what would you recommend as a GOOD engine oil flush? Thanks for the info on the door locks guys.