graemehowie.com

After two months, the lock for the Freelander arrived at Mylchreests in Douglas. I booked the car in to have this fitted, and also the problem with intermittent power delivery when pulling away from a junction examined. I told the service people the problem only showed itself after 20 minutes of driving.

When I called in the afternoon, they said the mechanics couldn’t find the problem on the diagnostic computer. (I expected that) but when I asked how long they drove it for – about 10 minutes. Now, this may have been compounded by the fact the problem can be masked by just putting more power on before releasing the clutch. Only attempting a smooth pull-out will show the problem, and most mechinics I’ve observed drive like gorillas with steel clogs. Anyway, they were basically saying there was nothing wrong with it, and they didn’t have the time to take it out for a longer test. Customer Service at it’s best!

After a brief internet search, I found there was a Land Rover technical bullitin about an issue that sounded very similar. It’s an issue with the EGR valve programming. The problem needs a software upgrade, but Mylchreests don’t have the CD required – oh well, when it goes back they can fix the tailgate lock again – it only worked once

So far, so good – still not had the tailgate lock barrel from Mylchreests though!

Now, where's the husky drawropes and shackles

The dog box from Dunragit Kennel Systems has been a great investment. The dogs are happy with the central divider in for short journeys, as they don’t get in each others way. For longer trips when they will settle down, the divider can be taken out to give them space to lie down. I thought it was a bit expensive for what it was, but really, no rattles, much less dog hairs and an added benefit – the dogs can only really see out the back, so no more barking at dogs we pass by…