Hello,

I seem to have an intermittent 'Trans. Fail Safe' issue, and weirdly it comes and goes when you apply forward/backward pressure on the gear selector!

So, occasionally when I start the vehicle from cold AND occasionally when I select Park after a successful drive (of any distance) the Trans Fail Safe message will pop up.

Strangely, occasionally when I start the vehicle and select Drive (D) the gear selector light and dash display with show me moving through Reverse and Neutral but the Drive light doesn't light up. If I then apply a little pressure to the gear selector in a forward or backward motion, the D will light up and the vehicle will operate faultlessly!

This feels like a dodgy electrical connection rather than anything mechanical, has anyone else experienced anything similar?

Could someone explain a little about how this part of the gear box works? and if this is indeed a dodgy electrical connection, can it be cleaned? replaced easily?

My concern is that while this is a workable problem, at present, if things change I may be left stranded in the middle of nowhere, with only 4th gear being of any use!

Many Thanks,
Matt

Update: I've just read the fault codes for the transmission with RSW All Comms, the code displayed is P0000 Gear Switch Fault.

Any input would be gratefully received.

Matt

Found a really useful post from the gearbox guru, last one down
Misc Trans. Errors & Issues

It does sound like a gear selection issue. It could just need adjustment or lubrication of the linkage (cable) on the inhibitor switch which is on the side of the transmission covered here:
http://workshop-manuals.com/landrover/l322...nd_adjust/

If that doesn't work then you can test the inhibitor switch as per your link and RRPhils excellent details.
The connector is tucked over the back of the engine sitting on top of the transmission bell housing, you need to remove the pollen filter housing/heater air intake scoop to get to it.
Removal of the inhibitor switch is covered here:
http://workshop-manuals.com/landrover/l322...inhibitor/

I replaced my inhibitor switch after similar symptoms which eventually lead to permanent Trans Failure mode. I was getting different error codes to you however. Testing using RRPhils details confirmed mine was shot (flicking open circuit indicating a poor contact). Once replaced it's been fine.
Unfortunately not a cheap part, circa £300.

Hi Weejock,

Thanks for the reply, very useful info indeed.

That's my weekend sorted then I'll pull it apart on Saturday and see what I can find. I may try and adjust/clean/repair the terminals depending on the condition.

I'm 99.9% sure this is an electrical issue rather than a mechanical adjustment, the selector operates perfectly in all positions, except Drive (D), and with a little fore/aft pressure connection is made.

Whilst I never like to waste money where possible, £300 isn't so bad after the money I've put in to this vehicle already, and at least I'll know its been rectified correctly.

Thanks again, I'll be sure to update over the weekend.

Matt

Fixed!

Although the part arrived some time ago I've not had the chance to fit it due to chasing blasted electrical faults.

Anyway, purchased a replacement gear selector switch from the main dealer, spent a few hours swapping it over. Wasn't a difficult job, trying to locate the bolt for the electrical socket mounting bracket was interesting, refitting more so! Gear selection seems to be working perfectly again now and I haven't seen a Trans. Fail Safe message since!

Matt

Good to know that little gem, glad your back on the road again  If it dont work.......burn it!

If the IId tool cant fix it.......burn the FF.

If the FF cant be fixed......buy a Land Cruiser!

If the LC cant be fixed..............................................BUY a horse !!