Jaguar Jx8 problems

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The Jaguar XJ (X308) is a full-size luxury saloon car manufactured and marketed by Jaguar Cars for years 1997–2003 across two generations and featuring the Jaguar AJ-V8 engine and Jaguar independent rear suspension. It was the third and final evolution of the Jaguar XJ40 platform that had been in production since 1986. It was preceded by the Jaguar XJ (X300).

Exterior

The X308 kept much of the same exterior styling as its predecessor, the Jaguar XJ (X300), carrying its rounded four-headlamp bonnet, low roofline, sloping tail, and wrap-around rear light clusters. From the front, the two generations can be differentiated by the shape of the indicator lenses (rectangular on the X300, oval on the X308), and also by the shape of the fog lamps and lower valance air intake, both of which are more rounded on the X308.

The front and rear bumpers were both changed along with the taillights which had red/clear lenses rather than red/grey lenses. The grille surround and badging was slightly changed. The headlight fixtures also included forward parking lights housed with the brights, new to X308.

photo of Jaguar Jx8 car production

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Jaguar Jx8 model years

jaguar jx8 1999 photo
Jx8 1999
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Common Jaguar Jx8 problems

The Jaguar XJ8 is known for several common problems that have been reported by its owners. One of the most frequently reported issues is with the fuel system, specifically with the fuel injectors and throttle body. This problem can manifest as a car that sounds like it is running out of fuel, even when the fuel tank is full. The recommended solution for this problem is to clean the fuel injectors and throttle body.

Another common problem with the Jaguar XJ8 is related to the timing chain tensioners. These tensioners are made of plastic and can fail, causing engine damage. If left unattended, this problem can lead to serious engine issues and expensive repairs. It is recommended that Jaguar XJ8 owners replace the plastic timing chain tensioners with more durable metal ones as soon as possible.

The Jaguar XJ8 also has a history of problems with the center armrest cup holder, which can break easily. This may not be a major issue, but it can be frustrating for Jaguar XJ8 owners who rely on the cup holder for their daily commute or long drives.

In addition to these problems, the Jaguar XJ8 has had issues with the transmission, particularly in the 1998 and 1999 models. Some 1998 XJs had problems with throttles not opening properly, and some 1999 cars had transmission glitches that caused them to lock up. It is recommended that Jaguar XJ8 owners check the throttle and transmission for any issues before purchasing the car, especially if it is a 1998 or 1999 model.

The front suspension bushes on the Jaguar XJ8 also need to be replaced every 25,000 miles, which can be an expensive maintenance cost. On the XJR model, it is also important to check the brakes for any issues before purchasing the car.

Despite these common problems, the Jaguar XJ8 has generally proven to be a reliable and sound car. In a recent JD Power survey, Jaguar was the top British marque, and it fared well in the Warranty Direct reliability league. However, it is still important for Jaguar XJ8 owners to be aware of these common issues and take preventative measures to avoid expensive repairs and breakdowns.

Jaguar Jx8

Is a Jaguar XJ8 expensive to maintain?

Jaguar XJ8 Repair & Maintenance Costs

The annual maintenance cost of a Jaguar XJ8 is $721. Repair and maintenance costs vary depending on age, mileage, location and shop.

How long do Jaguar XJ8 last?

The estimated lifespan of a Jaguar Xj is 318,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Fuel type is a major factor when looking into a vehicles lifespan/life expectancy.

What is the problem with the 4.0 v8 Jaguar engine?

The Jaguar V-8 4.0 & 4.2 Liter engines are very prone to coolant leaks, due to the use of many plastic components. The most troublesome parts are the thermostat housing and the water pump.. We replace the 4.0 Ltr plastic housing with an aluminum version that solves the problem.

Is the Jaguar XJ a reliable car?

Much more so than you might imagine. While Jaguar languished in 29th place out of 32 in our list of most reliable used car brands, the XJ fared rather better. In fact, owners named it the second most reliable used luxury car in 2023: only 14% went wrong, and the only area of concern were non-engine electrics.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Jaguar Jx8 years

We have researched Jaguar problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Jaguar Jx8 cars and compiled the top 1 most problematic Jaguar Jx8 model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Jaguar Jx8 model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Jaguar Jx8 years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Jaguar Jx8 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Jaguar Jx8 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Fuel system problems
  • Gasoline problems
  • Visibility problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Jaguar Jx8 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Jaguar Jx8 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Jaguar Jx8 vehicles.

List of Jaguar Jx8 complaints

Jaguar Jx8 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2014-06-05
  • Date Complaint: 2014-06-08
  • VIN: SAJHD1044XC
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: AS FUEL FILTER WAS BEING REPLACED, AND NO PRESSURE IN THE FUEL LINE, FUEL POURED ONTO THE LEFT SIDE EXHAUST TAIL PIPE. IF FUEL FILTER FAILS DURING HOT EXHAUST PIPE, FIRE IS MOST LIKELY TO OCCUR. THE LOCATION OF THE FUEL FILTER IS A HAZARDOUS CONDITION, AS IT IS UNDER THE FUEL TANK AND ABOVE AN EXHAUST PIPE. *TR
Jaguar Jx8 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2008-06-06
  • Date Complaint: 2008-08-22
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: LTR FORWARDED FROM EPA TRANSMITTING CORRESPONDENCE FROM CONGRESSMAN BONNER ON BEHALF OF CONSTITUENT WHO HAS CONCERNS ABOUT A REAR VIEW MIRROR EXPLODING IN A 1999 JAGUAR XJ8. *NJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE MIRROR SPRAYED A BLACK SUBSTANCE ON THE SEATS AND CONSOLE. AFTER DOING SOME RESEARCH, THE CONSUMER DISCOVERED THE BLACK SUBSTANCE WAS A TOXIC MERCURY COMPOUND AND THAT THE MIRROR EXPLODING WAS NOT UNCOMMON. *JB
Jaguar Jx8 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2004-07-14
  • Date Complaint: 2004-07-15
  • VIN: SAJHD1047XC
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: SINCE PURCHASING THIS VEHICLE IT HAS BEEN IN FOR THE SAME PROBLEM 12 TIMES. EACH TIME THE BILL HAS BEEN BETWEEN $900.00 AND $1500.00 THIS IS THE SAME PROBLEM. THE THROTTLE CONTROL HAS BEEN REPLACED 4 TIMES. THE ENGINE LIGHTS GO ON IN THE DASH AND THE CAR GOES INTO LIMP MODE EVEN ON THE HIGHWAY. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS. THE LAST SERVICE FOR THIS COMPLAINT WAS THE FIRST PART ON JULY. THIS IS THE 14TH OF JULY AND THE SAME PROBLEM HAPPENED ON THE HIGHWAY FORCING MY HUSBAND TO EDGE INTO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD AND STOP THE CAR, TURN THE ENGINE OFF AND WAIT. THE LAST REPAIR WAS SUPPOSED TO BE THE LAST AND WE REFUSED TO PAY YET AGAIN FOR THE SAME REPAIR. NOW WE ARE AGAIN WAITING FOR THE NEXT EXCUSE FOR NOT REPAIRING THE VEHICLE. THIS IS A SERIOUS AND EXPENSE PROBLEM. WE HAVE SENT OVER $6000.00 ON THE SAME REPAIR FOR THIS VEHICLE. WHAT WILL IT TAKE TO REPAIR THIS VEHICLE THIS TIME FOR FREE BEFORE SOMEONE IS KILLED ON THE HIGHWAY. *LA
Jaguar Jx8 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Date Complaint: 2000-01-07
  • VIN: SAJHX1046XC
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: DEALER SAID THEY HAD SEEN OTHER PROBLEMS WITH THE SPARK PLUG FAILURE. THEY REPLACED BOTH THE PLUGS AND FUEL GASKET AND FUEL SENDER AT NO CHARGE. I WAS LUCKY, THE CAR WAS PARKED IN OUR GARAGE WHEN IT FAILED. I HAD NO POWER AT ALL. IF I HAD BEEN ON THE ROAD AT NIGHT ALONE AND THE CAR FAILED, I COULD HAVE BEEN IN SERIOUS DANGER. WHEN I TRIED TO START THE CAR, IT WAS CLEAR IT WAS NOT THE BATTERY BECAUSE I HAD THE RADIO AND LIGHTS JUST NO TURN OVER OF THE ENGINE AT ALL. THE FUEL GAUGE WAS STICKING. WHEN I WOULD FILL THE TANK, OCCASIONALLY, THE DASH INDICATOR WOULD NOT REGISTER THE FILLING. THE NEEDLE EVENTUALLY, HOWEVER, WOULD COME UP TO INDICATE A FULL TANK. SOMETIMES, TURNING OFF THE ENGINE AND TURNING IT BACK ON WOULD CORRECT THE FAILURE. *AK

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