2012 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.
Social links
Common 2012 Jaguar Xk problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2012 Jaguar XK, several common problems have been identified:
- Limited Back Seating Capacity: Owners have cited the limited back seating capacity of the 2012 Jaguar XK as a problem. This can be a drawback for those who require more space for passengers in the rear seats.
- Small Trunk Space: Another common complaint is the small trunk space in the 2012 Jaguar XK. This limitation can be inconvenient for owners needing more storage capacity for luggage or other items.
- Recalls: The 2012 Jaguar XK had several recalls, including issues with front side lamps turning off by themselves and problems with an overhead console switch operating the power windows and convertible roof.
- Electrical Issues: Owners have reported various electrical gremlins in the 2012 Jaguar XK, which can lead to issues like the engine management light coming on, problems with the keyless entry and ignition system, and faults with the air-con and heating system.
- Tyre Wear: The tyres on the 2012 Jaguar XK are reported to wear quickly, which can be costly to replace. It is recommended to check the tread depth before purchasing to avoid unexpected expenses.
- High Maintenance Costs: While the 2012 Jaguar XK is praised for its driving experience, owners have mentioned that when issues arise, repair bills can exceed £1500. This indicates that maintenance costs for this model can be relatively high.
These common problems highlight areas where owners of the 2012 Jaguar XK have experienced issues, ranging from technology-related concerns to practical usability and maintenance challenges.
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.
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.
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.
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.
2012 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
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Jaguar Xk vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2012 Jaguar Xk complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Jaguar Xk.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-04-08
- VIN: SAJWA4GB9CL
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: A DEFECT EXISTS IN THE JAGUAR XK CONVERTIBLE, WHICH HAS REPEATEDLY AND UNPREDICTABLY PREVENTED THE JAGUAR FROM OPERATING, APPARENTLY IN CONNECTION WITH A CONCURRENT DRAINING OF THE CAR'S BATTERY. THE DEFECT RENDERS THE AUTOMOBILE UNABLE TO RELIABLY START AND DEPRIVES THE OWNER OF THE UTILITY OF THE VEHICLE. DESPITE THE VEHICLE BEING SERVICED BY JAGUAR'S AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR THIS DEFECT ON EIGHT SEPARATE OCCASIONS AND REPLACING THE BATTERY AND BATTERY MONITOR MULTIPLE TIMES, THE DEFECT REMAINS.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-11-15
- VIN: SAJWA4HA0CM
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 JAGUAR XK. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH THE VEHICLE STARTED SMOKING AND STALLED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE HIGHWAY. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER. THE MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THAT THE MOTOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE FAILURE OCCURRED THREE TIMES WITHIN TWO YEARS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE WAS 8,000. THE PISTONS AND VALVE COVER GASKETS WERE REPLACED. THE ENGINE WAS REPLACED TWICE. UPDATED 04/16/14..UPDATED 06/23/14 *BF UPDATED 06/2014 *JS
2012 Jaguar Xk recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2012 Jaguar Xk.
- Manufacturer: Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC (Jaguar) is recalling certain model year 2012-2015 Jaguar XK vehicles manufactured March 4, 2011, to March 20, 2014. In the affected vehicles, the front side lamps (parking lamps) may turn off after approximately 5 minutes. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
- Consequence: If the parking lamps turn off, the vehicle will have reduced conspicuity, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Jaguar will notify owners, and dealers will update software that controls the front side lamps, free of charge. The recall began March 5, 2015. Owners may contact Jaguar customer service at 1-800-452-4827. Jaguar's number for this recall is J049.
- Manufacturer: Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC (Jaguar) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 XK convertible vehicles manufactured October 1, 2010, through August 1, 2013. The switch in the overhead roof console also activates the power operated windows when the convertible roof is opening or closing. The switch does not move downward to close the windows. Therefore, these vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 118, "Power-Operated Window, Partition, and Roof Panel Systems."
- Consequence: The power windows may inadvertently be activated and pinch or injure an arm or finger.
- Remedy: Jaguar will notify owners, and dealers will replace the overhead roof console, free of charge. The recall began on October 1, 2013. Owners may contact Jaguar at 1-800-452-4827. Jaguar's recall number is J030.
Negative 2012 Jaguar Xk car reviews
Positive 2012 Jaguar Xk car reviews
-
Make sure you can handle driving this car as it can be a bit of a handful. With a few simple modifications, the car can be unleashed and become truly awesome. I absolutely love mine!
-
I love my new car! It's a Salsa Red XKR with charcoal interior and it's absolutely gorgeous. The engine is incredibly powerful and the sound is amazing. I get so much attention when I'm driving it. The interior is also really luxurious and comfortable. The dealership was fantastic too! I'm so happy with my purchase.
-
Performance-wise, the car is a beast with 510hp and peak torque at 2500rpm, making it hard to keep the back wheels from spinning while the rear end kicks out. The interior is a sight to behold, with stitched leather, suede, and wood that reminds me of a Ferrari. Although it lacks voice activation and racing pedals and steering wheel, this car is all about performance. The auto door lock may not work, but it still deserves a 6 for reliability. The engine may be covered with plastic, but the car is still a rocket on rails. Overall, it's a fun and exciting car that's sure to turn heads. Jag should be proud!
-
I recently purchased the 2010 Jag XKR after comparing it with the M3, M6, and 911s. While the other cars had their merits, the Jag's stunning looks won me over. Initially, I was unsure about the chassis and performance of the new 5.0 engine, but I have been pleasantly surprised. This car is an absolute stunner! The performance is spectacular, the torque is outstanding, and I have averaged 19 mpg on the first 1,800 miles. The sound system is incredible, and the Bowers & Wilkins speakers are as good as it gets. It truly is a world-class touring car that can be a pussy cat to drive or a 'scalded cat' on demand.
-
I bought a 'fire engine red' XKR convertible with a tan top and interior, as well as chrome wheels. I previously owned a similar XK8 convertible. As I drive by, guys shout compliments at me from the sidewalk. Jaguar has truly created an elegant design with a monster engine!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Jaguar Xk problems:
XK Reliability by Year - Jaguar Forums - Jaguar Enthusiasts Forum
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 ...
Common problems with XKR? | Jaguar Forum
Jul 23, 2015 ... Sometimes it's a wiring fault, but usually one or more sensors need replacing. There have also been isolated instances of the system being ...
2011 XK Known Issues - Jaguar Forums - Jaguar Enthusiasts Forum
Jul 19, 2016 ... There have been several reports of water pump and crossover pipe failures. I've suffered the crossover pipe failure personally, and I think I ...
Jaguar XKR Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
Top Jaguar XKR Problems · Change Automatic Transmission Oil Every 60,000 Miles. 16 people have reported this · Center Arm Rest Cup Holder May Break. 9 people have ...
2012 Jaguar XF R high mileage - Jaguar Forums - Jaguar ...
Dec 4, 2018 ... And that's just the engine! Thing is it's a very good and reliable engine, it's just that many of the cooling system components are not up to ...
Other years of Jaguar Xk
Are you having problems with your 2012 Jaguar Xk?
Herman Roob 2024-02-22
The engine has unfortunately seized after 15k miles, despite being under warranty. It is disappointing that Jaguar has not taken responsibility for this issue. However, I have decided to switch to BMW for my future car purchases. Thank you for considering my experience with Jaguar.