Here at Sell Your Problem Car, we’ve seen a surge of Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) vehicles with the 2.0D Ingenium engine in recent years. While this engine promised better efficiency and cleaner emissions, it’s become known for suffering from multiple design flaws that can lead to expensive repairs and even total engine failure. Recurring problems include faults with the timing chain, turbo failure, DPF and EGR issues, oil dilution issues, injector faults and more.
This guide will delve deeper into the Ingenium engine’s history, the common problems it faces, and what you can do if your car is affected.
The 2.0D Ingenium Engine: A Promising Start
In 2015, JLR aimed to replace the ageing but reliable 2.2 Duratorq diesel engine with a new in-house designed engine – the 2.0D Ingenium. This new engine boasted efficiency and compliance with stricter Euro 6 emission standards. The Ingenium engine’s modular architecture promised flexibility, allowing JLR to create a range of 3-, 4-, and 6-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, even hybrids.
This advanced line of engines was designed with efficiency and emissions in mind, with diesel engines becoming harder to obtain due to more stringent emissions regulations – JLR’s vision for 2.0D was futureproof. The initial benefits were:
- Lower on tax
- Better on fuel
- Suitable for a vast range of JLR models including Land Rover Defender, Range Rover Evoque, Land Rover Discovery, Sport Jaguar XF, Jaguar F-Pace, Jaguar E-Pace and many more.
However, the ambition behind the Ingenium engine wasn’t fully realised. Let’s explore the specific issues that plague this engine:
Common 2.0D Ingenium Engine Problems: A Deeper Look
Numerous design issues plague this engine, with frequent total engine failures. We have purchased Ingenium engine cars with under 50,000 miles, and cars which have adhered strictly to JLR’s servicing intervals. So, what goes wrong with these engines?
Faulty Timing Chain: One of the most concerning problems is the timing chain. This critical component keeps your engine in sync and ensures vital parts work together. Unlike some timing belts that need replacement, timing chains are designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle. Unfortunately, Ingenium’s timing chain and system are simply not strong enough. It’s common for the timing chain to rattle and stretch or snap entirely, causing catastrophic engine damage and complete engine failure.
It’s worth noting that in 2019, JLR did upgrade the timing chain to a thicker and stronger unit, acknowledging the shortcomings of the original design. However, this doesn’t help owners of earlier models (2015-2019) who are left with potentially faulty timing chains.
DPF Issues & Oil Dilution: The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) plays a crucial role in reducing soot emissions. Ideally, the DPF reaches high temperatures during operation to burn off built-up soot through a process called regeneration. However, the Ingenium engine, particularly in transversely mounted engines like the Discovery Sport, struggles to get the DPF hot enough for proper regeneration. This can lead to excessive fuel injection during regeneration attempts.
With the faulty regeneration process, unburnt fuel ends up in the engine oil, diluting it. This diluted oil loses its lubricating properties, putting the engine and turbocharger at risk of further damage.
Turbocharger Faults: Jaguar and Land Rover turbo failure is another frequent issue we witness. This can be caused by oil starvation due to timing chain problems or oil dilution. There have also been reports of questionable quality with the turbos themselves, leading to independent failures.
Long Service Intervals: JLR’s recommended service interval for the Ingenium engine is a lengthy 21,000 miles or 2 years. While modern oil technology has improved, frequent oil changes (every 6,000-10,000 miles or annually) are vital for maintaining engine health. JLR’s extended service interval can exacerbate the existing issues within the Ingenium engine, especially considering oil degradation over time.
Warning Signs of a Troubled Ingenium Engine:
- Engine rattling noises, especially when the engine is cold
- Illuminated check engine light
- Poor engine performance and hesitation
- Difficulty starting the vehicle
- Excessive smoke coming from the exhaust
What You Can Do if Your JLR Has an Ingenium Engine Problem
Many JLR owners with faulty Ingenium engines face an uphill battle. JLR dealerships have been reported to be unwilling to acknowledge the engine’s inherent flaws and may not offer assistance outside of warranty. The repairs for these engines can be incredibly expensive, often exceeding the car’s value.
Many unfortunate individuals have searched for advice on ‘Ingenium Timing Chain Rattles’, ‘Ingenium Oil Dilution’ and ‘Ingenium Engine Failure’, bringing pages of forum posts of letdown JLR customers.
The most affected cars are any of the JLR models with the 2.0D built from 2015 to 2019. Engine codes can be 204DTA, 204DTD, AJ200 or SD4.
Sell Your Problem Car: We Can Help
At Sell Your Problem Car, we understand the frustration and financial burden a faulty Ingenium engine can cause. We offer a hassle-free solution to sell your car, regardless of its condition.
- Get a guaranteed quote for your car online.
- We can collect your car anywhere in the UK Mainland, including garages and dealerships.
- Receive payment for your car before we even collect it.
Don’t let a problematic Ingenium engine hold you back. Get a free quote today with Sell Your Problem Car located in Downham Market, Norfolk.
