Hello, I've lurked here for a while, but now have a question, so here goes...

I bought a 2006 LR3 back in March. It was new then, thus never used off road.

I've been in light mud once, and snow once since I bought it, and when the front tires loose traction I hear a grinding noise. I haven't had it in 4 wheel low, but only in the full time driving mode.

Is this a "normal" noise? The first time I heard it was in the mud and I chalked it up to deep ruts or debris in the wheel wells, but this time I heard it on snow covered pavement.......

 

I had the same thing recently, but it was when I selected "low" range. The grinding only happened when I decellerated, however. I put it in high and haven't heard the sound since.

I look forward to someone explaining the source of that grinding sound . . .

 

Are you hearing the traction control noise?

 

I could be hearing traction control noise. However, that's a hell of a noise for traction control to make and I'm not convinced.

What is the mechanical action involved in traction control? Can it be more than braking, timing retardation and 4wd engaging?

 

Traction control automatically breaks the tires it senses have lost traction by activating the ABS actuators independently for each individual tire, thus re distributing the power to the ones that still have traction. The same "noise" is heard when the "hill descent"automatically activates the ABS in much the same mannerduring deceleration as was probably the cause for Cocca.

The neat thing here is that this system is not just an simple analog sensor looking for wheel spin to activate the breaks... but rather an increadibly intelligent system that monitors what the vehicle is doing in relation to your loss of traction and responds intelligently in a way that not only restores momentum forward, but keeps the vehicle pointed where you intend for it to go. It is actually a brilliant concept and if you think the Land Rover ABS actuators are loud, you should hear the ones on Lexus!!!!!!!

While on that subject, and as I have mentioned before, if you are playing in deep snow you should disable the traction control via the DSC botton in your vehicle. For ice, it is always better left on for your safety. However, if you have any doubts wether it is the Traction control that is making the noise, then disable it temporarily and see if it still makes the noise. Hope that helps.

 

Jantiz,
I think you hit the nail on the head. I haven't really used the descent feature, but palyed with it once........that is the exact same noise.

I'll make sure by disabling the DSC control and spinning them, but I think you got it!


Thanks.


now, if I could only get my mileage and power to be better............

 

Hmmm, if you're looking for more power/speed do not be afraid to use the "sport mode" on your transmission. It is not just another useless feature that sounds good on paper; it actually works.

Normal mode is designed primarily for smoothness and fuel efficiency. It tends to up-shift way too soon, loosing all that sweet torque available in the higherRPM ranges. Slap that tranny lever towards you into sports mode and press the accelerator to the floor until you feel the switch at the bottom being depressed (remember it is a drive by wire system). Fuel efficiency goes out the window at that point but it makes everyone of those 300 ponies come alive!

I wouldn't recommend driving in sports mode 100% of the time as you would need a part time job just for the fuel bill, but when you are trying to merge in traffic and just need that kick in the pants, give it a try. It makes a very detectable difference in my LR3.

As for the better fuel mileage... if you find the answer do tell [sm=nxsmile.gif].