1998 Jaguar Xjs problems

Common 1998 Jaguar Xjs problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the 1998 Jaguar XJS, several common problems have been reported:

1. Timing Chain Issues: Owners have experienced timing chain problems after reaching around 100,000 miles. This issue can lead to significant engine damage and costly repairs.
2. Electrical Problems: The Jaguar XJS is known for electrical issues, which can range from minor glitches to more serious malfunctions. These problems can affect various components of the car, leading to issues with lights, sensors, and other electrical systems.
3. Cooling System Concerns: Some owners have reported overheating problems, often accompanied by a sweet smell and coolant leaks beneath the car. These issues are typically linked to rapid wear of the coolant reservoir, which can develop cracks and cause coolant leakage.
4. Hydraulic System for Roof: Owners have encountered problems with the convertible roof system, including issues with opening and closing the roof promptly. This can be attributed to subpar hydraulic fluid, which may need to be flushed and replaced with a Jaguar-approved version.
5. Oil Pan Gasket Leaks: Another common problem is leaking engine oil pan gaskets, leading to a burning smell inside and outside the car. Replacing the gasket is necessary to prevent oil leaks and maintain the engine's performance.
6. Transmission Failures: Some owners have faced transmission failures, which can be a costly repair. Issues with the ZF transmission, such as the A drum circlip locating slot fracturing, have been reported, necessitating transmission rebuilds and other related repairs.
7. Brake System Concerns: Leaking brake pipes have been reported in XJs built between February and July 2014. This issue can lead to a loss of brake pressure, requiring the replacement of union joints to resolve the problem.

These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues that arise with the 1998 Jaguar XJS. Addressing these issues early can help prevent more significant and costly repairs down the line.

What problems did the 1998 Jaguar XJ have?

1998 XJs had problems with throttles not opening properly, and some 1999 cars had transmission glitches that caused them to lock up. You should also check - or get someone else to check - that the throttle is not fouling the underbonnet liner and that the power steering pipe is not chafing the alternator terminals.

Why are Jaguar XJ-S 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.

How reliable is a Jaguar V12 engine?

The Jaguar V12 continued to power models in the range during the 1990s and with all the early problems long sorted out the V12 became one of the best engines to have been produced anywhere.

Are Jaguar XJ-S good cars?

The Jaguar XJS is the direct successor to the legendary E-type Jaguar – a car that is considered by many as one of the prettiest and most well-behaved vehicles of its era. Yes, in some instances its looks and performance may be overhyped, but there is no denying that it was a special vehicle.

1998 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:

• Vehicle speed control problems
• Unknown or other problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Jaguar Xjs vehicle components and the number of complaints received.