Symptoms
Wet carpet beside the transmission tunnel that smells or tastes sweet, a misting windscreen, or a coolant level that keeps dropping.
The fix, step by step
- Start with the O-rings at the matrix pipe connection, which go brittle after 15–20 years.
- Owners report the pipes come out without removing the dash.
- The retaining screw is often seized, so put grinding paste on the screwdriver tip, or drill the head off if you have to.
- Don't overtighten on reassembly, because the joint has to move with heat.
- If the matrix itself leaks, replacing it means pulling the dash and console.
- Pressure-test the old and new cores at about 20 psi, and test them hot.
- Clear the drain under the core while you're in there.
Tools & part numbers
- Screwdrivers
- drill
- grinding paste
- new O-rings
- Nissens 70220/70230 or equivalent matrix if replacing
Where to buy the parts
P38 heater matrix pipe O-ringsRovers North ↗Amazon ↗
Hunting a used or discontinued part? Search eBay Motors for Land Rover Range Rover P38A parts →
Rated for a competent home mechanic with a decent tool kit. Confirm torque figures, fluids and procedures against the factory service manual for your VIN, support the truck on stands rather than a jack, and work at your own risk (disclaimer). Some parts links are affiliate links, which pay us a small commission at no cost to you.