2003 Jaguar Xk problems
The Jaguar XK is a two-door 2+2 grand tourer manufactured and marketed by Jaguar Cars from 1996–2012 and by Jaguar Land Rover from 2013–2014 in hatchback coupé and convertible body styles, across two generations. The XK was introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1996 and was discontinued in July 2014.
The first generation was marketed as the XK8, replacing the XJS and was Jaguar's first 8-cylinder model since the Daimler 250, introducing the all-new Jaguar AJ-V8 engine. The XK8 shared its platform with the Aston Martin DB7 which was itself based on the stillborn XJ41/42 project built on a modified XJ-S chassis conceived in the mid-1980s. The second generation of the XK, noted for its aluminium monocoque chassis and construction, was launched in 2006 for the 2007 model year. The XKR performance variant was introduced in both of the generations with the second generation also offering a more powerful XKR-S variant.
XK8/XKR (1996–2006)
The XK8 was launched in 1996 to replace the XJS designed by then Jaguar design director Geoff Lawson. It was available in two body styles – a two-door coupé and two-door convertible with both variations featuring 2+2 seating. The car was the first in the Jaguar line-up to use Jaguar's newly developed 32-valve V8 engine – the AJ-V8 which had a displacement of 4.0 litres.
The XK8 was joined by a more powerful XKR in 1998. The XKR featured a supercharged variation of the V8 engine rated at 276 kW (375 PS; 370 hp). The engine was shared with the XJR but featured a new intercooler and a two-piece driveshaft. The supercharger was manufactured by Eaton and displaced at 2.0 litres. It generated 11.9 pounds of boost pressure to contribute to the higher power output. Visual differences from the XK8 included a rear spoiler, mesh front grille and hood louvres on the bonnet for improved airflow to the engine.
The XK8 came standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, while 18-inch (standard on the XKR), 19-inch, and 20-inch wheels were available for the XK8 and XKR at an additional cost. Jaguar's Adaptive Cruise Control is an optional feature available on both models. Both models came with all-leather interior, burl walnut trim, and side airbags. Two interior configurations were offered, the sport configuration was aimed at young buyers and had a leather interior with cloth seats while the classic trim featured more amenities.
The XK range received a mechanical update in 2002 with the engines in both the XK8 and XKR models being enlarged to 4.2 litres and gaining more power, the front headlamps were also updated by the addition of a clear lens. Further changes included new exterior colours and wheels along with different badging. The models were revised again in spring 2004 and notable changes included new wheel designs, bigger front and rear spoilers and a redesigned grille.
Initially, the ZF 5HP24 five-speed automatic transmission was coupled to the conventionally aspirated 4.0-litre model and a Mercedes W5A580 five-speed transmission to the supercharged version, but in 2002 the new ZF 6HP26 six-speed automatic transmission was fitted in both versions of the 4.2-litre model.
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Common 2003 Jaguar Xk problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Jaguar XK 2003, several common problems have been reported:
- Timing Chain Rattles: Owners should investigate timing chain rattles as they can indicate a need for a tensioner repair to prevent a more expensive engine rebuild.
- Gearbox Issues: The gearbox in the Jaguar XK may require a rebuild after a few years, especially if shifts are not smooth. Addressing gearbox problems can be a significant expense, so it's crucial to pay attention to any signs of transmission issues during a test drive.
- Electrical Problems: Common electrical issues in the Jaguar XK 2003 include quirks in the electronics, which can lead to minor but persistent problems. While the big-ticket items like the engine and transmission are usually reliable, smaller electrical issues may arise and require attention.
- Convertible Top Hydraulic Leaks: For convertible models, hydraulic leaks in the system can be a known problem, particularly with the hydraulics related to the convertible top. Repairing or replacing the pump for the convertible top can be expensive, so owners should be vigilant about any signs of leaks or malfunctions in this system.
- Steering Column Shaking: Some owners have reported issues with steering columns shaking while driving, which can be a significant concern for safety and driving comfort. Addressing this problem may involve diagnosing the underlying cause and potentially costly repairs to ensure the steering system functions properly.
These common problems highlight the importance of thorough inspections and maintenance when considering purchasing a Jaguar XK 2003. Owners should be aware of these issues to make informed decisions and address any potential problems promptly to maintain the performance and reliability of their vehicle.
Is the Jaguar XK engine reliable?
As such, the later years of the Jaguar XK X150, particularly those with the 5.0-liter V8 engine (2009 and onwards), are widely considered more reliable over time. However, it's important to note that individual car maintenance and care can significantly impact a vehicle's reliability, regardless of its model year.
Is the Jaguar XK expensive to maintain?
The average annual repair cost for a Jaguar is $1,123, which means it has average ownership costs.
What are the most common problems with a used Jaguar XK coupe?
Electrics can go haywire, and batteries can flatten for no obvious reason. Other faults include the engine management light coming on, and the car's keyless entry and ignition system playing up. The air-con and heating system can also give up the ghost, with dealers requiring replacement parts to fix the fault.
Are Jaguar XKS reliable?
While the Jaguar XK is considered a reliable luxury coupe as a whole, some years are simply less reliable than others. So for today's post, we highlight the Jaguar XK years to avoid if you're looking to buy a used model.
2003 Jaguar Xk complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Jaguar Xk.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2003 Jaguar Xk recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2003 Jaguar Xk.
- Manufacturer: JAGUAR CARS LTD
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS, WITH THE FORWARD DRIVE GEAR SELECTED AND THE VEHICLE STATIONARY OR IN A FORWARD MOTION, THE GEARBOX COULD POTENTIALLY SELECT REVERSE GEAR, WITHOUT INDICATION.
- Consequence: THIS FAILURE COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 1, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT JAGUAR AT 1-201-818-8500.
- Manufacturer: JAGUAR CARS LTD
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, THE HEADLAMP ADJUSTMENT MECHANISM MAY BE OPERATED WITHOUT SUITABLE INSTRUCTION ON EITHER THE MECHANISM OR IN THE OWNER'S MANUAL. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: AN IMPROPERLY AIMED HEADLAMP COULD PROVIDE LESS EFFECTIVE ROADWAY ILLUMINATION OR COULD CAUSE INCREASED GLARE TO ONCOMING VEHICLES.
- Remedy: OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH AN OWNER'S MANUAL ADDENDUM CONTAINING THE NECESSARY HEADLAMP AIMING INSTRUCTIONS. OWNER NOTIFICATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON JANUARY 6, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT JAGUAR AT 1-800-452-4827.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Jaguar Xk problems:
[xk8] Jaguar XKR, any issues, problems, downside? - XK8 - Jag ...
Sep 21, 2011 ... [xk8] Jaguar XKR, any issues, problems, downside? ... I am going to buy a Jaguar XKR, 2003 or newer, up to 2008. ... ferret out any common issues ...
Most problems for pre-2003 XK8 - true? - Jaguar Forums - Jaguar ...
Oct 11, 2012 ... Tags 03, 2001, 2003, 2003xk8, 2012, converter, issues, jag, jaguar, problem, problems, reliability, torque, xk8, xkr · Subscribe. Related ...
Jaguar Xk8 reliability : r/Jaguar
Mar 18, 2022 ... Great engine, great gear box, reasonably solid design, and all round enjoyable. But don't go in with rose coloured glasses. A big Jaguar is a ...
Need Advice Purchasing XK8 - Jaguar Forums - Jaguar Enthusiasts ...
Jul 18, 2007 ... I am interested in purchasing an XK8 coupe or convertable, in the range of 1999 to 2003. What are common problems/maintenance issues, ...
2003 Jaguar XK Reliability - Consumer Reports
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.
Other years of Jaguar Xk
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