Freelander 2/Evoque rear diff

Diff replacement is a garage job, but we need to understand it to know what we’re paying for. Dave Barker explains.

We see how the pros swap out a Haldex unit

Although there were variations of the drive layout during Freelander 2’s production life, including a two-wheel drive model with no rear drive, the most common version used a Haldex unit fitted on the final drive rear differential. The Haldex unit distributes the drive between the front and rear axles, allowing 2WD for economy, and switching into 4WD when traction is lost.

Rear differential problems affecting Freelander 2 are well recorded, with recalls, technical bulletins and warranty claims being documented, these mostly effecting 2007 to 2011 models. We understand there have been issues with the rear diff’s pinion input bearing and, while various possible causes have been suggested, including the way the earlier Haldex applied drive to the diff, the symptom is generally the same – a loud growling noise from the rear diff.

The diff’s input pinion bearing is in the front of the diff casing (not in the nose of the Haldex assembly on the front of it) and the cure is to replace the rear final drive/diff with a new or reconditioned unit, or strip the original unit and fit new bearings. Stripping the diff to replace the bearing is not a DIY job, though replacing the rear final drive unit is not especially difficult. However you do need to have the rear of the Freelander off the ground and be able to work safely underneath it, which for most Diyers is not easy, practical or safe

The following work was carried out at Madison 4x4 and, while this is not considered a DIY job, the feature explains what your garage will need to do when dealing with a rear diff problem. Naturally, the work should be carried out to Land Rover procedures, part number and torque settings according to the specific Freelander model.

The pictures show this rear diff being replaced with the rear brake assembly already removed. This was done as part of a service being carried out at the same time as the rear diff was replaced. Its not otherwise necessary to remove them when replacing the rear diff. The work required to remove the axle drive shafts is the same on each side.