Market Position:
Compact SUV, positioned as a more premium and capable option in its segment, targeting buyers who valued the Land Rover brand heritage and off-road prowess in a smaller package.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Subaru Forester, and Jeep Cherokee. The Freelander differentiated itself with its British styling, available diesel engines (in some markets), and a more car-like driving experience than traditional rugged SUVs, while still offering some off-road capability.
Key Features:
Integral body-frame construction, Freelander Terrain Response (on later models, though potentially limited on early 2005 models depending on trim), independent suspension, sophisticated AWD system (Haldex center coupling), luxurious interior appointments for its class.
Coverage Areas:
North America, Europe, Global
Page Count:
Comprehensive (Specific number not provided by vendor, but implies full factory coverage)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Online Software/Web-based Access
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, transmission (manual and automatic), drivetrain (front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints), brakes (hydraulic, ABS), steering, suspension (front and rear), HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), body electrical (lighting, instruments, wipers, horn), body hardware, chassis, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and troubleshooting
Procedures Included:
Scheduled maintenance, tune-ups, diagnostics, troubleshooting, engine repair (major and minor), transmission repair, brake repair, suspension repair, steering system repair, HVAC system servicing, electrical system diagnostics and repair, body panel repair, fluid changes, filter replacements, component testing and replacement
Technical Depth:
Factory-level, detailed diagnostic procedures, component-level repair instructions, torque specifications, wiring schematics, exploded views, special tool requirements
Primary Engine:
2.5L V6 (KV6)
Horsepower Kv6:
174 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Kv6:
177 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Engine Variants Covered:
Includes details for the 2.5L KV6 gasoline engine. Some markets may have offered a 1.8L I4 or 2.0L TD4 diesel, which would ideally also be covered by comprehensive software.
Cooling System Type:
Pressurized liquid cooling system
Oil Capacity Kv6:
Approximately 4.7 liters (5.0 US quarts) with filter change.
Spark Plug Type Kv6:
NGK PFR6N-11 or equivalent
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual (often referred to as PG-1)
Optional Transmission:
5-speed automatic (Steptronic)
AWD System:
Permanent four-wheel drive with a viscous coupling (VCU) center differential and a rear differential. Some early models may have had a simpler system.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Texaco ETL-7045E or equivalent ATF
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil
Wheelbase:
2,520 mm (99.2 in)
Length:
4,360 mm (171.7 in)
Width:
1,785 mm (70.3 in)
Height:
1,725 mm (67.9 in)
Curb Weight Approx:
1,580 kg (3,483 lbs) for V6 models
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
Approximately 338 liters (11.9 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Seats Down:
Approximately 1,370 liters (48.4 cu ft)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (for 2005 model year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (for 2005 model year)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Acceptable (for 2005 model year)
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS)
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchor system.
Infotainment System:
Base models featured a basic AM/FM stereo with CD player. Higher trims offered more advanced audio systems, possibly with subwoofer and a premium sound experience.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS, EBD, Traction Control System. Some models might have had Hill Descent Control (HDC).
Connectivity Options:
Standard auxiliary input for audio devices was likely available on updated models. Bluetooth connectivity was rare in this era for the Freelander.
Oil Change Interval Gasoline:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement Kv6:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km).
Timing Belt Replacement:
For KV6 engines, this is a timing *chain* system, not a belt, reducing maintenance concerns in this area.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check owner's manual for specific conditions)
Coolant Specification:
OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to Land Rover specification for exact type.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4
Known Issues Cooling System:
Potential for head gasket failure on KV6 engines due to coolant issues; thorough diagnostics are crucial. Overheating can exacerbate this.
Known Issues Drivetrain:
Vibrations from driveshafts, potential wear in the viscous coupling unit (VCU).
Known Issues Electrical:
Issues with body control modules, window regulators, and alarm systems are not uncommon in older Land Rovers.
Known Issues Suspension:
Wear in suspension bushings and ball joints, especially from off-road use.
Brand Heritage:
Land Rover has a long-standing reputation for building capable off-road vehicles, dating back to the original Land Rover Series I in 1948. The brand is synonymous with ruggedness, durability, and adventure.
Model Evolution First Gen:
The first-generation Freelander (codenamed L-Series) was launched in 1997 as Land Rover's entry into the compact SUV market. It was designed to be more car-like and affordable than the larger Range Rover and Discovery models, offering a blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability.
Production Years First Gen:
1997-2006
Manufacturing Location:
Solihull, England, UK
