Land Rover Repair: 98 Land Rover overheating, land rover dealerships, land rover discovery

Question
I have a 1998 Land Rover Discovery I, that I just purchased about 6 months ago with 150K miles on it.  My temp gauge rises when I run the a/c or when I'm idling for a period of time; then I can drive and it may cool a little, and at times I turn the car off so it doesn't overheat (to red line). Problem is intermittent.  Does it sound like a sensor issue or perhaps radiator needs flushing (???). Can you recommmend some good LR mechanics in Atlanta area?  Is it true that a check engine light can only be cleared by a "testbox" tool, available only at Land Rover dealerships?

Answer
Hi Rhonda,

sounds like your radiator.  You can take your Disco to any Rad shop that you trust and have them do a pressure test - just in case.  You may also consider a flush and replacement of your coolant fluid as well.  Most local shops can install a rebuilt rad for a fraction of what the dealer would charge.

Caution:  don't let this problem drag on for too long.  You don't want your engine to overheat as it can cause some major problems with the engine.  The risk of a cylinder sleeve coming loose and dropping is greater with overheated engines.  If that happens the engine is finished.  $$$

Best of luck,
JohnMc