Engine Code

LAND-ROVER L34 engine (2016–2020) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Land Rover L34 is a 3,498 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2020. It features a DOHC 24-valve configuration with variable valve timing (VVT) and sequential multi-point fuel injection (MPI). In standard tune it delivered 176 kW (240 PS) and 340 Nm of torque, providing smooth, linear power delivery ideal for relaxed cruising and light off-road use.

Fitted to models such as the Discovery Sport and Range Rover Evoque, the L34 was engineered for accessible performance and drivability in compact and mid-size SUVs. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 6 emissions compliance across all production years.

One documented concern involves premature throttle body failure due to carbon buildup and electronic wear. This issue, highlighted in Land Rover Technical Service Bulletin SIB-17-02-03, is particularly prevalent in vehicles with frequent short-trip driving. From 2018, revised throttle bodies with improved sealing and carbon resistance were introduced to enhance reliability across the L34 production line.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2016–2020 meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).

L34 Technical Specifications

The Land Rover L34 is a 3,498 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for premium compact and mid-size SUVs (2016–2020). It combines sequential multi-point fuel injection with dual overhead camshafts and variable valve timing to deliver smooth, linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances refinement with regulatory compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement3,498 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationV6, DOHC, 24-valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke93.0 mm × 86.0 mm
Power output176 kW (240 PS) @ 6,500 rpm
Torque340 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel systemSequential multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Emissions standardEuro 6
Compression ratio10.3:1
Cooling systemSingle-circuit water-cooled
TurbochargerNot applicable
Timing systemChain (front-mounted, dual-row)
Oil typeSAE 5W-30 RL10250
Dry weight198 kg
Practical Implications

The naturally aspirated design provides smooth, predictable power delivery ideal for urban and highway cruising but requires adherence to 16,000 km oil service intervals to maintain timing chain and VVT actuator health. SAE 5W-30 RL10250 oil is essential due to its thermal stability and wear protection for the chain-driven camshaft system. Extended idling and short trips do not significantly impact emissions components, though throttle body inspection is advised for vehicles over 80,000 km per Land Rover SIB-17-02-03. The absence of forced induction simplifies maintenance but limits tuning potential compared to turbocharged variants.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 RL10250 specification (Land Rover SIB 16 01 04). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1.

Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all 2016–2020 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).

Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE R85. Output requires 95 RON unleaded fuel (Land Rover TIS Doc. A33011).

Primary Sources

Land Rover Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A33011, SIB-17-02-03, SIB 16 01 04

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)

ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Test code for net power

L34 Compatible Models

The Land Rover L34 was used across Land Rover's PTA platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-higher-flow exhaust in the Discovery Sport and revised intake tuning in the Evoque-and from 2018 the facelifted Discovery Sport models adopted the updated throttle body, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Land Rover
Years:
2016–2020
Models:
Discovery Sport (L550)
Variants:
Si6, 240 PS
View Source
Land Rover Group PT-2019
Make:
Land Rover
Years:
2016–2018
Models:
Range Rover Evoque (L538)
Variants:
Si6, 240 PS
View Source
Land Rover TIS Doc. A33011
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front-facing surface of the cylinder block near the starter motor (Land Rover TIS A33011). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('F' for L34). Pre-2018 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2018 units use dark grey valve covers. Critical differentiation from turbocharged variants: L34 lacks turbocharger and intercooler; intake manifold is simpler with MPI plenum. Service parts require model-year verification—throttle bodies before 05/2018 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Land Rover SIB-17-02-03).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Land Rover TIS Doc. A33011

Location:

Stamped on the front of the cylinder block near the starter motor (Land Rover TIS A33011).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2018: Silver valve cover with black timing cover
  • Post-2018: Dark grey valve cover
  • No turbocharger or intercooler confirms naturally aspirated L34
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Land Rover SIB-17-02-03

Throttle Body:

Throttle bodies manufactured before May 2018 are prone to sticking and must be replaced with post-2018 upgraded units in high-mileage applications.

Software Mapping:

Post-2018 Discovery Sport models use revised throttle calibration; ECUs are not interchangeable with earlier models.
Fuel Requirements

Warning:

Use of lower-octane fuel may result in reduced performance and increased knock sensor activity.

Evidence:

Land Rover SIB 15 03 06

Requirement:

Requires 95 RON unleaded petrol minimum; 98 RON recommended for sustained high-load operation.

Common Reliability Issues - LAND-ROVER L34

The L34's primary reliability risk is throttle body failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or stop-start urban operation. Land Rover internal field reports from 2017–2019 indicated 6% of pre-2018 units required throttle body replacement before 100,000 km, while VCA MOT data shows air intake-related faults contribute to 4% of petrol emissions failures. Carbon buildup and electronic wear increase stress on early units, making scheduled inspection and correct oil specification critical.

Throttle body malfunction or sticking
Symptoms: Limp mode, erratic idle, delayed throttle response, DTCs related to throttle position.
Cause: Carbon buildup on throttle plate or wear in motor components due to oil vapour ingress from PCV system.
Fix: Clean throttle body bore and plate; replace if motor or sensor failure is confirmed; reset adaptations.
Variable valve timing (VVT) actuator sticking
Symptoms: Check engine light, camshaft timing faults, hesitation, reduced efficiency.
Cause: Carbon buildup or oil sludge in VVT solenoid or actuator mechanism, particularly in short-trip driving cycles.
Fix: Clean or replace VVT actuator and solenoid; perform adaptation reset via diagnostic tool and verify oil condition.
Coolant leak from thermostat housing
Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, white residue near housing, temperature gauge fluctuations.
Cause: Age-related cracking of plastic thermostat housing or gasket failure due to thermal cycling.
Fix: Replace thermostat and housing assembly with latest revision; use correct coolant type and bleed system properly.
Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets
Symptoms: Oil smell, drips at bellhousing/undertray, residue around valve cover seals.
Cause: Age-hardened valve cover gaskets; crankcase ventilation ageing can raise case pressure and accelerate seepage.
Fix: Replace gaskets with OEM parts and verify CCV function; maintain correct oil spec and intervals to minimise long-term leakage.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Land Rover technical bulletins (2016-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about LAND-ROVER L34

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LAND-ROVER L34.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialLAND-ROVER documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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