2008 Jaguar Xk problems

General information about Jaguar-Xk
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

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 2008 Jaguar Xk problems

The 2008 Jaguar XK has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. One of the most frequently mentioned issues is related to the catalytic converter, as reported by several posters in Jaguar Forums.

Another problem that has been reported is with the AC drain pan leaking into the passenger side floor. The fix for this issue typically involves replacing the drain with a 3/4" drain assembly, which might require several trips to the dealer to get the final fix to work.

The 2008 Jaguar XK also has issues with the thermostat failure, particularly between 40-60k miles. This is a common problem with the 4.2L engines in these vehicles, and it has been reported by several owners.

The rear halfshaft/driveshaft failure is another common problem with the 2008 Jaguar XK. This issue has been reported by some owners, and it can cause significant downtime and cost to repair.

In addition to these specific problems, the 2008 Jaguar XK has also been reported to have some minor issues that can affect the overall reliability of the vehicle. For example, the dash leather is known to pull back from the leading (windshield) edge, a problem that is common on almost all the cars unless they don't see any sun or the previous owner was very diligent about applying a quality conditioner to the leather.

Overall, the 2008 Jaguar XK has several common problems that can affect its reliability and cost of ownership. While these issues can be frustrating for owners, it's important to note that some of these problems are relatively minor compared to those found in other luxury vehicles. However, it's always a good idea to do your research and be aware of these common problems before purchasing a used Jaguar XK.

What is the problem with the Jaguar XK engine?

The engines are renowned for oil leaks, they all leak engine oil. Indeed it was rumoured that this was a design attribute as it formed Jaguar's answer to underbody rust protection! The truth is that the engine has poor front and back oil seals, both in the sense of materials used and in their design.

Are Jaguar XK reliable cars?

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. Plus, we offer insights into why they should be approached with caution.

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.

2008 Jaguar Xk car problems categorized by type of issue

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

Electrical system problems
Exterior lighting problems
Visibility problems
Suspension problems
Power train problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2008 Jaguar Xk vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2008 Jaguar Xk complaints

The NHTSA has received 5 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Jaguar Xk.

2016-03-11

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2016-03-05
Fire: 1
VIN: SAJWA43B985
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 JAGUAR XK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HEADLIGHT ON THE DRIVER SIDE CAUGHT FIRE AND MELTED THE HEADLIGHT CASING. THE HEADLIGHT ON THE PASSENGER SIDE ALSO BEGAN TO MELT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED AS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 62,700.

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2015-05-27

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2015-05-01
Components: VISIBILITY
Summary: 2008 JAGUAR XK. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO PREMATURE REAR WINDOW DETACHMENT ON VEHICLE CONVERTIBLE TOP REPAIRS. *SMD THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED THE DETACHMENT PROBLEM WAS COMMON AND THE REPAIR/REPLACEMENT WOULD COST $600 FOR AN ADHESIVE FIX WITH A 50% CHANCE OF FAILURE OR $2400 FOR A NEW CONVERTIBLE TOP. *JB

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2014-06-03

SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2013-11-05
VIN: SAJWA44C389
Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
Summary: TL * THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 JAGUAR XK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL BEGAN LEAKING FLUID. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN VERIFIED THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE SEALS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL, DRIVE SHAFT AND CONTROL ARMS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 78,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 86,000.

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2014-03-12

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2014-01-01
VIN: SAJWA44B685
Components: STRUCTURE
Summary: THIS IS A 2008 VEHICLE ALWAYS GARAGE KEPT, 50,000 MILES, EDGES OF WINDSHIELD ARE DELAMINATING, THE EDGES NOT EXPOSED TO THE WEATHER AND ELEMENTS. THIS COMPROMISES THE WINDSHIELDS STRENGTH. EXTERIOR OF VEHICLE LOOKS BRAND NEW WITH NO WEAR AND TEAR. CAN SUBMIT PICTURES IF YOU PROVIDE E MAIL ADDRESS TO SEND TO. JAGUAR HAS RECALLED OTHER LATE MODEL VEHICLES WITH A SIMILAR DEFECT, BUT REFUSES TO IDENTIFY THIS VEHICLE AS HAVING A SAFETY DEFECT. THANK YOU *TR

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2010-02-03

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2010-01-01
VIN: SAJWA44B885
Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Summary: 2008 JAGUAR XK. GAS PEDAL ACCELERATED CAR WOULD NOT STOP TILL PUT INTO NEUTRAL. THEN REAR TIRES SPUN AND SMOKED DID NOT STOP TILL ENGINE WAS TURNED OFF> CHECK ENGINE LIGHT KEEPS COMING ON, DEALER SAYS IT IS A SENSOR, BUT IT HAS BEEN THERE SEVERAL TIMES AND LIGHT IS STILL COMING ON. IS THIS RELATED TO TOYOTA RECALL? *TR

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2008 Jaguar Xk recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2008 Jaguar Xk.

2009-05-19

Manufacturer: JAGUAR CARS LTD
Components: TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS
Summary: JAGUAR IS RECALLING 112 MY 2007-2009 XK VEHICLES FITTED WITH RUN FLAT TIRES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO.138, "TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM, (TPMS)." THE TPMS WARNINGS WERE TURNED OFF. IF THE TPMS ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT WERE TO SEND A SIGNAL TO THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER TO DISPLAY A TPMS WARNING TELLTALE, THE LIGHT WOULD NOT ILLUMINATE NOR WOULD THE SUPPLEMENTARY WARNING TEXT ON THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER MESSAGE CENTER BE DISPLAYED.
Consequence: FAILURE TO WARN OF TIRE DEFLATIONS IS A NON-COMPLIANCE WITH FMVSS 138 AND COULD LEAD TO TIRE FAILURE AND A CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL UPDATE THE CAR CONFIGURATION FILE SETTINGS TO ENABLE THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER TO FLAG THE WARNING SYMBOLS AS REQUIRED BY FMVSS 138 AND ASSOCIATED TEST IN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER MESSAGE CENTER. THE REMEDY WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE JUNE 8, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT JAGUAR AT 1-201-818-8500.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2008 Jaguar Xk problems:

2007-2009 XK Problems? - Jaguar Forums - Jaguar Enthusiasts ...

https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/xk-xkr-x150-33/2007-2009-xk-problems-116151/

Apr 19, 2014 ... Thermostat failure. Pretty common on these 4.2L engines between 40-60k miles. I had the same exact failure on my 2006 Jaguar XJ. 3. Rear ...

Jaguar xk reliability : r/Jaguar

https://www.reddit.com/r/Jaguar/comments/huzogr/jaguar_xk_reliability/

Jul 21, 2020 ... Looking to buy an around 2007 Jaguar XK as a daily driver (only 20 miles a day). Just wanting to know about the reliability and the cost of ...

XK Reliability by Year - Jaguar Forums - Jaguar Enthusiasts Forum

https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/xk-xkr-x150-33/xk-reliability-year-186577/

Jul 30, 2017 ... The problem most often reported in the 2010 XK/XKR line has been failure of some part of the cooling system, basically the waterpump. Also the ...

2008 Jaguar XK Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues

https://repairpal.com/2008-jaguar-xk/problems

Top 2008 Jaguar XK Problems · ECM software update available · Creak type noise from front brakes · High Brake Pedal Effort Required to Start The Engine · Door ...