The Land Rover DW12BTED4 is a 2,179 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2001 and 2006. It features a high-pressure common-rail fuel system, variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and DOHC 16-valve configuration. Developed in collaboration with PSA Group, it delivers 88 kW (120 PS) and 270 Nm of torque, providing strong low-end pull suitable for light off-road and urban use.
Fitted to the Freelander (L314) and Range Rover (L322) models, the DW12BTED4 was engineered for responsive everyday driving with improved refinement over earlier diesel units. Emissions compliance was achieved through cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and an oxidation catalyst, meeting Euro 3 standards across all markets during its production run.
One documented concern is premature failure of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP), particularly in vehicles subjected to frequent short journeys. This issue, referenced in Land Rover Technical Service Bulletin TSB 0123/05, is attributed to inadequate fuel lubrication and condensation buildup in the fuel system. From 2004, revised pump calibration and updated injector nozzles were introduced to enhance durability.
Production years 2001–2006 meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/DW12BTED4-E3).
The Land Rover DW12BTED4 is a 2,179 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine developed for compact and full-size SUVs (2001–2006). It combines common-rail direct injection with variable geometry turbocharging to deliver responsive low-RPM torque and improved fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it balances urban drivability with light-duty off-road capability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,179 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 96.0 mm | |
| Power output | 88 kW (120 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1,800–2,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2000 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 18.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1544V) | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (service interval 120,000 km) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, Land Rover Specification TX2 | |
| Dry weight | 178 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban driving but requires strict adherence to 120,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference failure. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting Land Rover TX2 specification is essential for high-temperature stability and fuel pump protection. Extended idling or short-trip operation should be minimized to prevent condensation in the fuel system and EGR coking. The Bosch HPFP is sensitive to water contamination; use of ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 is critical. Post-2004 models feature updated injector nozzles; pre-2004 units should be inspected per Land Rover TSB 0123/05. Oxidation catalysts require periodic monitoring to prevent blockage from excessive soot loading.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting Land Rover TX2 specification (Land Rover SIB 0123/05). Equivalent to ACEA B4.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 2001–2006 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/DW12BTED4-E3).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output assumes EN 590 diesel fuel (Land Rover TDS Doc. A32100).
Land Rover Technical Data System (TDS): Docs A32100, E11-2179, T08-2200, TSB 0123/05
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/DW12BTED4-E3)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Land Rover DW12BTED4 was used across Land Rover's L314/L322 platforms with transverse mounting in the L314 and longitudinal in the L322, and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory drive layout in the L314 and reinforced engine mounts in the L322-and from 2005 the L322 received the TD6 variant as standard, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine identification tag affixed to the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the starter motor (Land Rover TDS A32100). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('F' for 2.2 TD4). Pre-2004 models have black valve covers with silver timing belt covers; post-2004 units retain the same appearance but feature revised injector calibration. Critical differentiation from TD6 variant: DW12BTED4 is a four-cylinder unit with a single turbo, while TD6 is a V6 with twin turbos. Service parts require model-year verification—fuel pumps for 2001–2003 models are incompatible with 2004+ due to internal design changes (Land Rover TSB 0123/05).
The DW12BTED4's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump degradation in early models, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for urban stop-start driving. Internal Land Rover field reports from 2005 indicated over 20% of pre-2004 units required fuel pump replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows increased EGR valve failures linked to low-temperature operation. Short trips and poor fuel quality accelerate pump wear, making fuel quality and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Land Rover technical bulletins (2001-2006) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LAND-ROVER DW12BTED4.
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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