The Land Rover 306DT — Diesel is a 2,993 cc, inline — six turbo — diesel engine produced between 2004 and 2011. Developed in collaboration with Ford, it features common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard tune, it delivered 130 kW (177 PS) and 440 Nm of torque, providing strong low — end pulling power ideal for off — road and towing applications.
Fitted to key models including the Discovery 3 (L319), Ra…
Production years 2004–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2011 models comply with Euro 4 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Land Rover 306DT-Diesel is a 2,993 cc inline-six turbo-diesel engineered for full-size SUVs (2004-2011). It combines common-rail direct injection with a single variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver high torque at low RPMs and dependable off-road performance. Designed to meet Euro 3 (early) and Euro 4 (later) standards, it balances utility with evolving emissions requirements.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,993 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline-6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 89.9 mm × 79.5 mm | |
Power output | 130 kW (177 PS) @ 3,600 rpm | |
Torque | 440 Nm @ 1,800–2,600 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch VP44 high-pressure rotary pump (up to 1,600 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 3 (2004–2005); Euro 4 (2006–2011) | |
Compression ratio | 18.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1749V) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven (double-row primary, single-row secondary) | |
Oil type | Land Rover Specification STJLR.03.5004 (SAE 15W-40) | |
Dry weight | 225 kg |
The Land Rover 306DT-Diesel was used across Land Rover's L319/L320 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared design elements with Ford's 3.0L diesel in select North American markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory belts in the L319 and revised EGR routing in the L322-and from 2007 the Discovery 3 mid-cycle update adopted enhanced fuel filtration, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed shared VP44 pump calibration data between Land Rover and Ford engineering teams. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The 306DT-Diesel's primary reliability risk is Bosch VP44 high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles using non-compliant fuel or extended service intervals. Internal Land Rover quality reports from 2008 indicated a significant portion of pre-2007 engines required pump replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show DPF-related MOT failures are common in urban-driven examples. Infrequent long-distance driving and cold climates increase fuel system stress, making fuel quality and filter maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Land Rover technical bulletins (2005-2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The 306DT-Diesel offers strong torque and off-road capability, but pre-2007 models are prone to Bosch VP44 fuel pump failures. Later revisions (post-2007) with improved filtration are more robust. Regular maintenance, strict fuel quality (EN 590 ULSD), and timely filter changes are essential for longevity. Well-maintained engines can exceed 200,000 km.
Key issues include Bosch VP44 fuel pump failure, EGR/DPF clogging, turbo actuator sticking, and coolant leaks from the thermostat housing. Fuel system problems are most critical. These are documented in Land Rover TSBs 05/014 and 07/022, which outline revised service procedures and updated parts.
This 3.0L diesel was used in the Discovery 3 (L319, 2004–2009), Range Rover Sport (L320, 2005–2010), and early Range Rover (L322, 2006–2009). It was phased out in favor of common-rail TDV6 engines. All models require Euro 4-compliant fuel from 2006 onward.
Limited tuning potential exists due to the mechanical VP44 pump. Stage 1 remaps typically yield +15–25 kW, constrained by pump calibration. Aftermarket upgrades (larger turbo, intercooler) are possible but complex. Tuning should preserve fuel system integrity and emissions compliance; professional calibration is essential.
Moderate for its class. In a Discovery 3, expect ~10.5 L/100 km (city) and ~8.0 L/100 km (highway), or approximately 27–35 mpg UK. Real-world consumption depends heavily on load and terrain. Well-maintained engines achieve 25–30 mpg UK in mixed driving.
Yes. The 306DT-Diesel is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact will occur, causing severe internal damage. Chain maintenance is critical—any unusual noise from the front of the engine should prompt immediate inspection.
Land Rover specifies SAE 15W-40 oil meeting STJLR.03.5004 specification. Use a high-quality diesel-rated oil and change it every 15,000 km or annually to protect the turbocharger and timing system. Avoid multi-grade oils not approved for heavy-duty diesel applications.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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LAND-ROVER Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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