Newbie with first problem to solve

Hi Folks - after some time I've finally taken the plunge and got myself a P38 4.6 HSE. Drove it home yesterday and all going fine till about 60 miles from home and the messages appeared 'traction failure' followed by 'Abs failure'. Been doing a bit of rooting around the forum and seems this is a common failure - also noticed when I was out tonight in the half dark that as soon as I start the engine all three rear brake lights are on. Would this suggest a problem with the brake switch? that will hopefully sort all the issues at once? Any thoughts welcome.

Have to say quite smitten with the old girl - just glad she's not my everyday transport.

Thanks

Try replacing brake light switch as they can be the problem if that dosent work then you might have to have it put on diagnostics to pinpoint the fault

Ok got the brake lights issue resolved - was the switch. I'm still getting the ABS and traction control failure messages showing - hopefully diagnostic software will arrive tomorrow.

This is most usually due to a low battery level...

The P38 HATES weak batteries....

Check your battery volts with engine off - it should be between 12.5 and 13.8 or thereabouts....

Then check it with the engine running, should be over 14.4 and upto around 14.8 or so...

Any less in either reading will cause all sorts of issues, the first systems to play up with a low battery are the ABS and Traction Control (as they are both the same thing on a P38 - the Traction Control system uses the ABS modulator, block and pump to stop the wheels from spinning using the application of the brakes etc etc)

Also could be an ABS sensor air gap issue - grab yourself a copy of RAVE (The Workshop manuals - available here land rover service factory manual RAVE download land rover resource, service manual, workshop factory manual, download, rave, vehicles including discovery, series, defender, range rover, freelander, LR3, Handbooks, Catalog, Catalogue, Land Rover Inte ) and check the ABS sensor air gap and adjust if necessary.

Let us all know how you get on and :welcome2: to P38A ownership.....

:welcome2: At last, a new mmber who has posted his location AND used the search facility....must be a first for a long time-Well done !!!:clap2::clap2:

First thoughts point to one of the ABS sensors not reading right. Check for damaged wiring, faulty connection or that the sensors are fully inserted until they touch the reluctor ring. They will not be damaged or worn out doing this as they "Self adjust" to a minimum gap when the wheel turns.

:welcome2: Good man - not just to plunge in with questions without any research, fantastic folks up-here -

Nothing to add regarding this prob. but wonder if it was you i had a chat with the other day in the plesco car park? you were looking for a p38.
Which diagnostic are you getting?