We all want our Range Rovers to run at their best for as long as possible but occasionally, a problem emerges. Sometimes, a quick investigation at home can lead to a rapid fix, other times, a trip to your local Range Rover specialists is the only way to get things back on track.
One problem that can sometimes take Range Rover drivers by surprise is a sudden loss of power and a host of warning lights telling you something is wrong. In limp mode, your SUV won’t grind to a halt, but it won’t be showcasing its powerful potential either. It will instead limp its way home or to the garage. This slow movement, or limp as we call it, is your Range Rover’s way of protecting itself from significant damage. Known as limp mode, your Range Rover limits its functionality to ensure it can be looked after if need be, repaired without causing additional damage.
Let’s take a little look at limp mode and what it means for your Range Rover.
Why does my Range Rover go into limp mode?
Your Range Rover will go into limp mode if it detects a problem with the engine or other important parts of the SUV. It ensures that your vehicle is still driveable but prevents it from making additional exertions that could make the problem worse or cause new ones.
The problems that put your Range Rover into limp mode vary but can include issues with the engine (typically the most common), issues with the transmission, failing mass air flow sensor, failing throttle position sensor, issues with coolant sensors or the ETC system malfunctioning.
How can I tell my Range Rover has gone into limp mode?
As mentioned in our intro, a decrease in power will be a key sign that your Range Rover is not performing as it should and is in limp mode. Similarly, warning lights will also be an indicator that all is not well. Thankfully a few other symptoms will likely be evident, giving you plenty of hints that limp mode is now activated.
These could include power sapping features such as heating or air conditioning being shut off. Perhaps the main sign though is that your speed will be capped at 30-50mph, and automatic transmission may be locked into a low gear.
How do I get my Range Rover out of limp mode?
Limp mode indicates that there is a potentially serious problem with part of your Range Rover. The very fact the vehicle has gone into this “safe mode” is a sign that all is not well, and it probably needs professional help.
With your Range Rover protecting itself as much as possible, it is simply then down to you to get it to a Range Rover service centre where a trained technician can assess the vehicle, locate the problem, rectify it and reset the vehicle so it exits limp mode.
Occasionally, the problem is not severe and might even be reset by yourself, however, there is no guarantee of this. You can try turning your Range Rover off and then restarting it, sometimes this may reset the onboard sensors and see that the activation of limp mode was a glitch. Should limp mode return immediately or a short while after driving, you shouldn’t attempt to try a reset again and instead head straight to your nearest service centre.
How much does it cost to get a limp mode error repaired on a Range Rover?
This is a hard question to answer! The activation of limp mode is to help protect your Range Rover but depending on what part needs protecting could largely shape how much it costs to get it fixed. In some cases, a quick fix will only set you back the standard labour cost charged by your mechanic. Other times, you could be picking up a substantial bill should there be a more serious issue affecting your Range Rover.
Is it safe to drive my Range Rover in limp mode?
Limp mode is the way a Range Rover protects itself from causing itself any further damage. The speed will be limited, and some features will be disabled but the Range Rover will still be driveable. However, if you feel that there is a much bigger problem, it would be advisable that you don’t drive the vehicle any further and instead contact a service centre to organise the collection of your Range Rover. You should also avoid a lengthy drive when in limp mode. Whilst it is there to help protect your vehicle, prolonged use may actually cause the problem to get much worse.
Can I just turn limp mode off?
No. it is part of the safety system of the vehicle and even if you manage to find a way to do so, it would not be advised. You could find yourself driving a vehicle that is severely damaged internally, without knowledge, and therefore put yourself and other road users at risk should the issue turn into something much worse.
Your safest bet to keep your Range Rover in the best possible condition is to book Range Rover servicing with a specialist service centre like RCV. Using only the latest manufacturer diagnostics and only approved parts, we ensure your Range Rover is consistently at its optimal levels of performance. With affordability, experience and premium quality at the forefront of what we do, contact our team today for servicing, Range Rover MOTs and more.