"Three Amigos" Problem in Land Rover Discovery 2

The "Three Amigos" refers to the simultaneous illumination of the ABS, Traction Control (TC/ETC), and Hill Descent Control (HDC) warning lights on a Land Rover, most commonly the Discovery 2. This fault signals a problem in the anti-lock braking system.

The issue can be caused by:

• ABS shuttle valve failure – often due to brake fluid leaking past worn O-rings inside the ABS modulator.

• Wheel speed (ABS) sensor faults – damaged or dirty sensors can trigger the warning lights.

• ABS modulator contamination – valve switches may stop working properly if contaminated by brake fluid.

Diagnosis is usually done by scanning fault codes with a diagnostic tool and checking the sensors and ABS unit.

Repair options include:

• Diagnosing a faulty ABS sensor (Hawkeye or similar diagnostic tool will indicate which sensor is malfunctioning.). Sometimes the issue is an electrical connection problem, and other times the sensor needs to be replaced. 

• Sometimes change of brake fluid is enough

• Replacing the ABS modulator