I thought I would write up a quick summary of progress that I have made with resolving some ‘issues’ with the auto box on my 2008 TDV8.

I purchased it back in July with 165k on the clock. Very comprehensive service history with a ‘transmission fluid change’ documented in the service book by the LR main dealer at 80k (Wow )

The box was OK, but very harsh changing down when coming to a stop, and with some occasional shuddering on upwards change when towing the Tin Tent.

I did the usual fluid (ZF)/filter change & reset and the harshness reduced considerably, but the shudder was still there .. I dropped the fluid & filled again and had further improvement.

I then decided to change the valve block seals (square & 4 tubes), and the harshness disappeared, and general changes were much better. Some probably down to the seals, and some down to yet another (partial) fluid change..

I still had the occasional shudder under heavy load when towing.

Final step was to replace the valve block solenoids (genuine ZF set). I thought that with 165k on it I may as well replace then all ..

Shuddering under load on upwards change now completely gone. All down shifts are silky smooth. If I were really picky then I would say that 1 --> 2 and 2 --> 3 could be slightly smoother, however I’m probably comparing to my Mercedes 9 speed box

So – and this just echoes what has been said before on the forum – Fluid, Filter, Seals, and Solenoids and the 6 speed ZF is a happy bunny again. Chris
2012 TDV8 4.4 Westminster

How much did this cost please, Chris? FFRR
2010 TDV8 3.6 Vogue
Stornoway Grey

Filter & fluid = £190 + £80 for each partial fluid change
Sleeve & seals = £50
Solenoid set = £300

With 20/20 hindsight I would go for a fluid flush rather than multiple partial changes

Chris Chris
2012 TDV8 4.4 Westminster

Thanks for the info!  FFRR
2010 TDV8 3.6 Vogue
Stornoway Grey

Good to know that even with 165k , the gearbox is still good

Given the cost of a fluid change, for an additional £350, it looks like a good option. Mine is currently on 165k.... I think I’ll be doing this when I get the fluid and filter changed later this month.
Now where’s that number for RRPhil. 2011 TDV8 4.4 AB Bournville Brown