1980 Jaguar Xjs problems

Common 1980 Jaguar Xjs problems

The Jaguar XJS, launched in 1975, is a grand tourer that has gained respect and popularity over the years. However, there are several common problems that owners of this car have reported, particularly in post-1993 models.

Rust

One of the most common issues is rust, which often affects the front edge of the roof where it meets the stainless steel fastener. This is particularly prevalent in post-1993 cars, but it can also be found in earlier models. Rust can also occur in other parts of the car, such as the lower front wing section, around the windshreens, and the taillights.

Engine Overheating

Another problem that has been reported is engine overheating, which can lead to white smoke coming out of the exhaust and blown head gaskets. This is often caused by coolant leakage or low coolant levels, which are common problems in Jaguars.

Marelli Failure

The Marelli failure is a common problem that affects many XJS owners. This issue is caused by rotor failure, which shuts down one bank of the engine, while the ECU continues to supply fuel to the other bank. This can cause the fuel to reach the CAT con and catch fire.

Interior and Exterior Design

The XJS has some unique design features that can be frustrating for some owners. For example, the vanity mirror is not located on the sun-visor but in the glove box, and the trip meter needs to be reset every 999 miles. Additionally, the big steering wheel can make it difficult to get in and out of the car.

Reliability Issues

Jaguars, in general, are known for their reliability issues, and the XJS is no exception. The car has received a rating of 2.5 out of 5 points for reliability, which is lower than many other cars in its class.

In summary, the Jaguar XJS is a classic grand tourer that has gained popularity over the years, but it is not without its problems. Rust, engine overheating, Marelli failure, unique design features, and reliability issues are all common problems that owners of this car have reported. However, with proper maintenance and care, these issues can be minimized, and the XJS can be a rewarding and enjoyable car to own.

Is the XJS reliable?

The XJ finished top in the luxury car class in our most recent reliability survey, with an excellent overall score of 94.3%.

Why is the XJS so cheap?

The Jaguar XJ-S was built from 1975-96 and was the most affordable mass-produced V-12 sports car ever built. But owners constantly balanced enjoyment and aggravation, which has depressed prices to bargain levels. Stiffer emissions and safety regulations demanded a new kind of Jaguar sports car in the 1970s.

What problems did the Jaguar XJ have?

Water pumps on 5.0 V8 and 3.0 Supercharged XJ models are prone to failure, sometimes they can fail in less than 20,000 miles. This is because coolant gets inside the bearing housing corroding the water pump bearing.

Why is the Jaguar XJ-S controversial?

In its day, the XJ-S was controversial. While time may well have flattered the model's broad shouldered flanks, bugeye headlamps and infamous 'buttress' rear pillars, when it debuted the XJ-S looked like nothing else on the road. It was avant-garde to the point of being considered ugly by many.

1980 Jaguar Xjs car problems categorized by type of issue

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

• Tires problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1980 Jaguar Xjs vehicle components and the number of complaints received.