1978 Jaguar Xj12 problems
The Jaguar XJ is a series of mid-size/full-size luxury cars produced by British automobile manufacturer Jaguar Cars (becoming Jaguar Land Rover in 2013) from 1968 to 2019. It was produced across five basic platform generations (debuting in 1968, 1986, 1994, 2003, and 2009) with various updated derivatives of each. From 1970, it was Jaguar's flagship four-door model. The original model was the last Jaguar saloon to have been designed under the leadership of Sir William Lyons, the company's founder, and the model has been featured in countless media and high-profile appearances.
Series 1, 2, and 3 (1968–1992)
Overview
The first generation Jaguar XJ was produced for a total period of 24 years, with two major facelifts – in 1973 and in 1979, with a raised front bumper and less tall grilles.
For four years, the 1968 introduced XJ was always a four-door, straight-six saloon on a 2.76 m (108.75 in) wheelbase. In 1972, a more spacious, 4-inch (10 cm) longer wheelbase (LWB) option, and a 5.3 litre V12 engine were added. On the XJ series II (from 1973), the standard wheelbase (SWB) saloons were cancelled in 1974 – but a SWB two-door (series II only) coupé was sold from 1975–1978.
The 1979 series III saloons received a redesigned greenhouse (upper body) and bumpers. The 6-cylinder series III models were replaced by the second generation Jaguar XJ in 1987, but the V12 models not until 1992.
Social links
Common 1978 Jaguar Xj12 problems
Common Problems with the Jaguar XJ12 1978:
- Cooling System Issues: The 1978 Jaguar XJ12 faced complaints about its cooling system. Owners reported that the cooling fans were not powerful enough, leading to overheating and potential engine damage. Jaguar addressed this with a recall and system upgrade in 1974.
- Electrical System Problems: Another common issue involved the car's electrical system. Owners experienced alternator failures, resulting in power loss and potential stalling. Additionally, issues with the ignition system caused misfires and starting difficulties.
- Suspension and Steering System Challenges: The 1978 XJ12 had issues with its suspension and steering systems. The power steering pump was prone to failure, leading to heavy and difficult steering. Rear suspension problems, such as worn-out bushings and shocks, caused a harsh and uncomfortable ride.
- Transmission Concerns: Some owners reported transmission issues with the automatic transmission slipping or failing. This problem affected the smooth operation of the vehicle.
- Fuel System Troubles: Problems with the fuel system, including issues with fuel pumps, injectors, and filters, were common. Clogged fuel injectors could cause poor engine performance or prevent the engine from starting.
- Rust Vulnerability: Like many older luxury cars, rust was a significant issue for the XJ12. The body panels and undercarriage were prone to corrosion, especially in regions with harsh weather conditions. Regular maintenance, such as washing, waxing, and rust inspections, was crucial to prevent severe rust damage.
These problems highlight the challenges faced by owners of the 1978 Jaguar XJ12. Addressing these issues promptly through regular maintenance and repairs by qualified mechanics is essential to ensure the smooth and reliable operation of this classic car.
Are Jaguar V12 reliable?
Many buyers might baulk at the thought of running (and maintaining) a V12, Jaguar's classic powerplant is an inherently reliable unit – as long as its owner is fastidious when it comes to maintenance.
What are the common issues with the Jaguar XJS V12?
The engine is divided into two banks, separated by the ignition system. The rotor is prone to breakage, and the result is that your engine won't get a spark, and your catalytic converter will get hot while being filled with combustible air. If ignored, the catalytic converter will set the car on fire.
How many Jaguar XJ12 were made?
Production count
| Year | XJ6 | XJ12 |
|---|---|---|
| 1977 | 9,043 | 1,913 |
| 1978 | 12,138 | 3,284 |
| 1979 | 1,099 | 429 |
| Total | 61,441 | 16,060 |
How fast is a Jaguar XJ12?
The ungoverned Jaguar XJ12 reaches just 149 mph; the BMW 750iL peaks at a governed 131 mph. The V-12 Benz comes with Pirelli P600 Z-rated tires, which are able to handle higher speeds better than the H-rated Michelin MXV 4s of the V-8 car.
1978 Jaguar Xj12 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Jaguar Xj12 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Tires problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1978 Jaguar Xj12 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1978 Jaguar Xj12 complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1978 Jaguar Xj12.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: BRIDGESTONE TIRE (P225 70 R15) EXPERIENCED TREAD SEPARATION. *SLC
1978 Jaguar Xj12 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1978 Jaguar Xj12.
- Manufacturer: JAGUAR CARS
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: THE AIR PIPE AND FUEL LINE PIPE MAY CONTACT EACH OTHER AND RESULT IN CHAFING OF THE FUEL RAIL.
- Remedy: THE DEALER WILL REROUTE AIR OR FUEL LINE TO PRECLUDE CONTACT, WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1978 Jaguar Xj12 problems:
V12 engine Problems - XJ-S - Jag-lovers Forums
Nov 13, 2019 ... Hi all im a newbie here and live in the uk. I recently acquired a 1978 xjs which was running very badly and obviously not on 12 cylinders.
1978 V12 injector problems - Jaguar Forums - Jaguar Enthusiasts ...
Aug 10, 2019 ... XJ6 & XJ12 Series I, II & III - 1978 V12 injector problems - Hi all, i am slowly working on my 1978 Daimler V12. The car has a surprisingly ...
Help needed 1978 XJ series 2 fuel problem | Jaguar Forum
Apr 13, 2014 ... My Pal has a 1978 XJ series 2 that has started to have starting/running problems. ... common use. There are three or four TSBs ... 1984 Jaguar XJ-6 ...
Thoughts on Jaguar XJ6 1978 - Jaguar Forums - Jaguar Enthusiasts ...
Mar 30, 2020 ... buy a Ferrari, not a Series 2 Jaguar XJ. You will spend and spend after you buy someone else's problem. These cars are to enjoy spending your ...
Jaguar XJS: Common Problems and Solutions | BreakerYard.com
Jaguar XJS Common Problems and Solutions · Complete Loss of Power · Car Pulling To Side · Slow Braking · Knocking From Gearbox (All Automatics) · Overheating Engine ...
Other years of Jaguar Xj12
Are you having problems with your 1978 Jaguar Xj12?
Leave your review of 1978 Jaguar Xj12