Production Years Covered:
1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002
Vin Decoder Reference:
VIN sequence specific to model years
Vehicle Positioning:
Rugged, durable, off-road focused utility vehicle with a long-standing reputation for capability and resilience.
Competitors:
Jeep Wrangler, Toyota Land Cruiser (earlier generations), Nissan Patrol (earlier generations), Mercedes-Benz G-Class (higher-end segment)
Vehicle Attributes:
Robust ladder frame chassis, permanent four-wheel drive, capable suspension, iconic utilitarian design, strong diesel engine torque.
Value Proposition:
Provides essential technical information for maintaining and repairing the iconic Land Rover Defender, empowering owners and independent workshops.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (4WD System, Differentials, Drive Shafts)
Chassis:
Suspension (Coil Spring), Steering System, Braking System (Disc/Drum), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Starting and Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Wiring Diagrams, ECU/ECM Systems, Body Electrical Components
Bodywork:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Interior Trim, HVAC System, Seats, Bumpers
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Belt Inspections, Spark Plug/Glow Plug Service, Brake Pad/Shoe Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Flowcharts, Symptom-based diagnosis for engine, transmission, electrical, and chassis issues
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine rebuild procedures, Transmission overhaul, Suspension component replacement, Brake caliper/master cylinder repair, Steering rack replacement
Diagnostics:
Component testing, Sensor diagnosis, On-board diagnostics (OBD) interpretation (where applicable for the era)
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, Clearances, Fluid capacities, Electrical values
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and drivetrain rebuilds
Detail Level:
Detailed step-by-step instructions with diagrams and illustrations
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder Turbocharged Diesel
Engine Code:
200 Tdi (though the manual specifies 300 Tdi, the engine is commonly referred to as 300 Tdi in this period for Defender)
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2495 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 113 hp @ 4000 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 207 lb-ft (280 Nm) @ 1800 rpm
Injection System:
Indirect Injection with Bosch VE Rotary Pump
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., G48 or equivalent for the period)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters
Engine Oil Type:
API CG-4 or CH-4, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (depending on climate)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.7 Liters with filter change
Fuel Filter Replacement Interval:
Typically every 12,000 miles or 12 months
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (LT77 or R380)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Transfer Case:
2-speed LT230 transfer case with center differential lock (selectable or permanent depending on specific configuration)
Fluid Specifications Manual
Gearbox Oil Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (check specific manual for R380 requirements)
Fluid Specifications Transfer Case
Transfer Case Oil Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90
Gearbox Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.3 Liters (LT77), Approx. 2.7 Liters (R380)
Transfer Case Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.3 Liters
Body Styles:
90 Station Wagon, 110 Station Wagon, Defender Hard Top, Defender Pick-up, Defender Soft Top
Wheelbase 90:
90 inches (approx. 2286 mm)
Wheelbase 110:
110 inches (approx. 2794 mm)
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by body style (e.g., 1700-2000 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, typically around 2700-3500 kg
Crash Test Results:
Not typically subjected to modern crash test standards due to its era and design. Emphasis on robust construction.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, Rear drum brakes (some later models may have rear discs). ABS optional or standard on some later models.
Seatbelts:
Standard front seatbelts; rear seatbelt configurations vary by body style.
Chassis Design:
Ladder frame construction providing significant structural integrity for its intended use.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 12,000 miles or 12 months (more frequently in dusty conditions)
Coolant Flush:
Every 24,000 miles or 24 months
Transmission Oil Change:
Every 24,000 miles or 24 months
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron II or III
Common Wear Items:
Clutch components, U-joints, suspension bushings, wheel bearings, exhaust systems, rust on body panels and chassis.
Engine Specific Notes:
Timing belt tensioner, injector pump seals, potential for head gasket issues if overheated. EGR system maintenance.
Chassis Integrity:
Regular inspection for corrosion, especially on outriggers, crossmembers, and brake lines.
Heritage:
Land Rover has a long and storied history of producing robust, go-anywhere vehicles dating back to the original Land Rover Series I in 1948.
Defender Lineage:
The Defender is the direct descendant of the original Land Rover Series vehicles, evolving from the Series III Lightweight and 110/90 models.
Defender Tdi Era:
The 300 Tdi engine marked a significant improvement in power and refinement over previous diesel engines, making the Defender more user-friendly.
Production Period:
The Defender platform, in various iterations, was produced from 1983 (as the '90' and '110') until the discontinuation of the original Defender in 2016.
Manufacturing Location:
Solihull, West Midlands, United Kingdom
Off Road Capability Awards:
Consistently recognized for superior off-road capability by automotive journalists and enthusiasts worldwide.
Durability Reputation:
Highly regarded for its long-term durability and ability to withstand harsh conditions, often earning high marks in owner satisfaction for reliability.
Military Service:
Widely used by military and emergency services globally due to its robust nature and field serviceability.
