Range Rover Diesel's Black Smoke SOS: Lambda Sensor Alert

Hey there! I experienced almost identical issues with my 2017 Range Rover Sport TDV6. The symptoms you're describing match exactly what I dealt with, black smoke, poor performance, and increased fuel consumption. Got it checked at the garage last month. Turns out the ceramic element inside the lambda sensor was indeed clogged with carbon deposits. The mechanic showed me the old sensor, and it was pretty messed up. They had to replace the entire sensor unit. It's actually a serious issue if left unattended because it affects the engine's air-fuel mixture, which can lead to more expensive problems down the line. In my case, they also had to clean the EGR valve since it was related. The fix made a massive difference, engine runs smooth now, no more black smoke, and power's back to normal. Given your mileage and symptoms, I'd definitely get it checked soon. Just make sure they do a proper diagnostic first before replacing parts.

Hey! Yeah, I've been through exactly the same headache with my 2018 Range Rover. Your symptoms sounded way too familiar, that black smoke and sluggish performance drove me nuts! Got the Lambda sensor replaced and seriously, it was like driving a different car afterwards. Much smoother, no more smoke, and back to its proper self. Just curious, do you remember roughly how much you ended up paying for the fix? And has everything been running smoothly since, or have you noticed any other quirks popping up? Asking because I had to get my EGR valve cleaned a few months later, and I'm wondering if that's a common follow-up issue with these models. Cheers!

Hey again! Yeah happy to share the details! I just got it sorted about 3 weeks ago and it set me back 375€ for fixing the ceramic element in the lambda sensor that was all gunked up. The mechanic showed me how dirty and clogged it was, no wonder the engine was having a fit! Since the fix, it's been running like an absolute dream. The black smoke's completely gone, and it's got all its power back. Fuel consumption's back to normal too, which is a massive relief for my wallet! Interesting you mention the EGR valve, mine's actually been fine since the lambda sensor fix. The mechanic did a thorough check of everything while it was in, and the EGR was still clean enough. But I'll keep an eye on it since you mentioned having issues with yours. These Range Rovers can be a bit finicky sometimes, right? But honestly, best money I've spent on the car in a while. It's like having my old girl back, smooth, powerful, and running just like it should. Let me know if you need any other info!

Thanks for sharing that! Just got back from the mechanic today actually. You won't believe how similar my experience was, paid around 400 for the lambda sensor replacement. The mechanic showed me the old one too, completely shot! The difference is incredible. No more black smoke, engine's running smooth as butter, and that annoying jerking is completely gone. Even noticed the fuel gauge isn't dropping as fast anymore. Such a relief! Funny thing was, while I was there, another guy came in with his Range Rover having the exact same problem. The mechanic said it's pretty common with these models after hitting high mileage. At least I know what to look out for next time! Really glad I finally got it sorted. Thanks again for your help, saved me from stressing about whether I was making the right call. Time to enjoy driving again without worrying about that pesky check engine light!