RTC4978 | Starter Solenoid - 200Tdi, 2.5L Turbo Diesel | Defender 1987-2006
To check the stock of Genuine Parts before placing an order please use our Contact Us page
To check the stock of Genuine Parts before placing an order please use our Contact Us page
To check the stock of Genuine Parts before placing an order please use our Contact Us page
To check the stock of Genuine Parts before placing an order please use our Contact Us page
Land Rover Part Number: RTC4978 - Starter Solenoid
RTC4978 is a starter solenoid fitted within the starter motor assembly of 2.5-litre diesel engines used in Defender models (1987-2006). It moves the starter pinion into mesh with the engine flywheel and completes the high-current circuit from the battery to the starter motor, providing the brief mechanical and electrical engagement required to crank the engine. Common symptoms of solenoid failure include no crank or intermittent cranking caused by worn contacts or a seized actuator; replacing the solenoid restores reliable electrical switching and mechanical engagement.
Use the compatibility data below to confirm fitment against your V.I.N.
Compatibility
- Defender (1987-2006) - 2.5L 4-cylinder naturally aspirated diesel (Lucas M47 starter)
- Defender (1987-2006) - 2.5L 4-cylinder turbo diesel (From VIN TOKA925365)
- Defender (1987-2006) - 2.5L I4 200Tdi, 5-speed manual, less catalyst
Frequently Asked Questions
RTC4978 is the starter solenoid that actuates the starter pinion and completes the high-current connection from the battery to the starter motor when the ignition is turned. It provides the momentary mechanical engagement to mesh the pinion with the flywheel while electrical contact is made. Failure typically presents as no crank or intermittent cranking due to worn contacts or a seized actuator; replacing the solenoid restores reliable electrical switching and mechanical engagement.
| Model | Variant |
|---|---|
| Land Rover Defender (1987-2006) | 2.5L 4-cylinder naturally aspirated diesel (Lucas M47 starter) |
| Land Rover Defender (1987-2006) | 2.5L 4-cylinder turbo diesel (from VIN TOKA925365) |
| Land Rover Defender (1987-2006) | 2.5L I4 200Tdi, 5-speed manual, less catalyst (Valeo starter) |
If you are unsure of compatibility with your vehicle, you can also confirm by checking against your V.I.N. Simply reach out to us with your V.I.N and desired part number via our Contact page or use our Finding Part Numbers page.
Replace RTC4978 if the vehicle exhibits starter symptoms such as no crank or intermittent cranking that are traced to the solenoid; replacement restores reliable switching and mechanical engagement. If uncertainty remains, have the starter circuit and related components inspected to confirm the fault.
- C8 products are usually supplied by Britpart.
- L8 products are genuine Land Rover parts.
- Z8 products are normally supplied by Allmakes.
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