1997 Jaguar Vanden plas 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.

1997 Jaguar Vanden plas

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Common 1997 Jaguar Vanden plas problems

The 1997 Jaguar Vanden Plas, the last year of the XJ6 with the original straight six-cylinder engine, is known for its elegant styling, reliability, and the joy of driving it. However, like any car, it has its share of issues. Here are some of the common problems based on the complaints of owners:

  • Transmission Failure: The German-made GF tranny is known to fail, requiring a rebuild at a cost of around $3100. This issue is specific to the 1997 model, as it was the last year before Jaguar switched to V8 engines.
  • Electrical Issues: The alternator, starter, and body control module have all been reported to fail prematurely, costing around $400, $450, and $1200 respectively to replace.
  • Timing Chain Issues: The I6 timing chain has been reported to begin complaining at startup, indicating potential wear and tear.
  • OBD Pollution Sensors: Some owners have reported that the OBD pollution sensors no longer ready, causing the car to fail inspection and requiring an expensive waiver. Even Jag dealers have been unable to fix this apparent design flaw.
  • Rear Differential Failure: One owner reported that their rear differential went out at around 80,000 miles, requiring a repair that could have been caused by a very slow leak.
  • Rust: Rust around the sunroof has been reported, indicating potential body integrity issues .
  • Interior Issues: Some owners have reported issues with the interior, such as a droopy headliner, a driver's seat that no longer adjusts, and a missing glove compartment .
  • Brake Fluid Leaks: Brake fluid leaking all over the driveway has been reported, indicating potential brake system issues.
  • Radio Failure: Some owners have reported that the radio no longer turns on, indicating potential electrical issues.
  • Cup Holder Issues: The cup holders in the 1997 model have been reported to lack stability, indicating potential design flaws .

These issues, while common, do not necessarily mean that the 1997 Jaguar Vanden Plas is a bad car. Many owners have reported that the car is reliable, fun to drive, and economical for its class. However, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and consider them when making a purchasing decision.

1997 Jaguar Vanden plas engine

What does Vanden Plas mean on a Jaguar?

coachbuilders

Vanden Plas is the name of a former coachbuilders, later used as a car badge by BMC and most recently, Jaguar. Vanden Plas may also refer to: Vanden Plas (band), a German progressive metal band. Camille Van den Plas (1850–1902), Belgian soldier, accountant and colonial administrator.

How much is a 1998 Jaguar XJ series Vanden Plas?

Base prices range from $54,750 for the XJ8 to $63,800 for a Vanden Plas and $67,400 for an XJR. The other notable additions to the '98 lineup are standard side air bags and a revamped suspension.

Who made Vanden Plas?

Guillaume Vanden Plas

The founder of the company was Guillaume Vanden Plas, who inherited a small workshop in 1870 in Brussels. He specialised in making front and rear axle units for carriage makers.

What is the mpg on a Jaguar Vanden Plas?

2001 Jaguar Vanden Plas

EPA MPGOwner MPG Estimates
2001 Jaguar Vanden Plas 8 cyl, 4.0 L, Automatic 5-spd
Premium GasolineView Estimates How can I share my MPG?
16 combined city/highway MPG 14 city 20 highway 6.2 gals/ 100 miles

1997 Jaguar Vanden plas car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Jaguar Vanden plas problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Vehicle speed control problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Jaguar Vanden plas vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1997 Jaguar Vanden plas complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Jaguar Vanden plas.

2002-06-10

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-06-10
  • VIN: SAJKX6247VC
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED AND WITHOUT WARNING, THE ACCELERATOR WILL STICK. CAUSING VEHICLE TO ACCELERATE FASTER OR STICK AT THE GEAR IT IS ON. DEALER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED. *AK CONSUMER STATES THAT HE IS THE ORIGIONAL OWNER OF THIS VEHICLE. AND IS CONCERNED THAT A SAFETY HAZARD MAY OCCUR. CONSUMER SHOWS PROOF ON THE ATTACHED FORM THAT THE DEALERSHIP/SERV DEPT. WILL NOT HELP RESOLVE. CONSUMER FEELS THAT JAGUAR ARE AND SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS MATTER. *SCC

1997 Jaguar Vanden plas recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1997 Jaguar Vanden plas.

2006-05-19
  • Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
  • Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
  • Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1997 Jaguar Vanden plas problems:

1997 Jaguar Vanden Plas Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
1997 Jaguar Vanden Plas Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
https://repairpal.com/cars/jaguar/vanden-plas/1997

Most Common 1997 Jaguar Vanden Plas Problems ... The exterior door handles are of poor quality; they frequently break or do not offer enough leverage to open the ...

What's the most common problems in a 98-01 XJ8 - Jaguar Forums ...
What's the most common problems in a 98-01 XJ8 - Jaguar Forums ...
https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/xj-xj8-xjr-x308-27/whats-most-common-problems-98-01-xj8-76082/

Jul 1, 2012 ... Tags 01, 2000, 2005, 98, common, jaguar, jaguars, p1300, plas, problem, problems, typical, vanden, xj8, xj8l · Subscribe. Related Topics. Code ...

1997 Jaguar Vanden Plas Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
1997 Jaguar Vanden Plas Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
https://repairpal.com/1997-jaguar-vanden-plas/problems

Top 1997 Jaguar Vanden Plas Problems · Exterior Door Handles May Break · Retrofit kit available to replace problematic self-leveling suspension · Brake Pedal ...

1997 Jaguar Vanden Plas Consumer Reviews | Cars.com
1997 Jaguar Vanden Plas Consumer Reviews | Cars.com
https://www.cars.com/research/jaguar-vanden_plas-1997/consumer-reviews/

The 4.0L, 6-cyl engine is very reliable. I have never had any engine problems. My Jag mechanic says he has customers looking for these cars because this was ...

Jaguar Vanden Plas Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
Jaguar Vanden Plas Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
https://repairpal.com/problems/jaguar/vanden-plas

... known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your Jaguar Vanden Plas ... common issues based on car owner complaints ... 1997 Jaguar Vanden Plas problems. ( ...

Other years of Jaguar Vanden plas

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Vanden plas 1998
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Vanden plas 1999
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Vanden plas 2000
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Vanden plas 2001
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Vanden plas 2002
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jaguar vanden plas 2003 photo
Vanden plas 2003
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1997 Jaguar Vanden plas photo