1998 Jaguar Xk8 sports 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 1998 Jaguar Xk8 sports problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 1998 Jaguar XK8 sports car, several common problems have been identified:
- Transmission Issues: Owners have reported transmission problems, including issues with the transmission not engaging properly, causing the car to have difficulty moving forward. This can be a significant concern as it affects the drivability of the vehicle. The transmission in the XK8 is known to have common problems with the A drum, which can lead to failures and require costly repairs.
- Cooling System Problems: Another common issue with the 1998 Jaguar XK8 is related to the cooling system. Early models had water pump impellers that were prone to breaking up, leading to overheating and potentially causing serious engine damage. It is crucial for owners to monitor the cooling system and address any signs of overheating promptly to prevent major issues.
- Chain Tensioner Failure: Plastic chain tensioners in the early models of the XK8 have been reported to fail, causing a noticeable slapping noise when starting the car. This issue can impact the engine's performance and longevity. Fortunately, replacing these tensioners is relatively straightforward and can prevent more severe engine damage.
- Electrical Problems: Some owners have experienced issues with the electrical system in the 1998 Jaguar XK8. This can manifest in various ways, such as problems with ignition coils or other electronic components. Electrical issues can be challenging to diagnose and repair, requiring specialized knowledge and tools.
- General Maintenance: Apart from specific problems, regular maintenance is crucial for the 1998 Jaguar XK8 to ensure its longevity and performance. Owners have highlighted the importance of staying on top of maintenance tasks like oil changes, radiator flushes, and replacing worn-out parts like hoses, thermostat, and water pump to prevent future headaches.
These common problems with the 1998 Jaguar XK8 sports car highlight the importance of proactive maintenance and addressing issues promptly to ensure the vehicle's reliability and longevity. Owners should be vigilant in monitoring these areas to prevent more significant and costly repairs down the line.
What is the problem with the Jaguar XK8?
Early Jaguar XK8s had a poor reputation thanks to Jaguar's use of Nikasil-lined cylinder bores, with excessive oil consumption, low compression and eventual engine failure being common symptoms – fixed in 2000 by introducing mild steel linings, with many early cars subsequently receiving new engines.
What engine is in a 1998 Jaguar XK8?
The XK8 used the new 4.0-litre 32-valve Jaguar AJ-V8 engine and was available in a two-door coupé and two-door convertible bodystyles.
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.
Does Jaguar XK8 rust?
The XK8 will rust if neglected, especially the floorpan areas where the steel re-enforcing plates can trap moisture, so get underneath and have a good look around.
1998 Jaguar Xk8 sports car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Jaguar Xk8 sports problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Jaguar Xk8 sports vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1998 Jaguar Xk8 sports complaints
The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Jaguar Xk8 sports.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-07-27
- VIN: SAJGX2245WC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING ON MORNING RUSH-HOUR TRAFFIC WHEN I HEARD A SOUND UNDER THE CAR AS IF SOMETHING HAD BROKEN. THERE WERE NO OBSTACLES ON THE ROAD AND NOTHING FELL OFF THE CAR. THE CAR TRANSMISSION LOCKED UP AND THE TRANSMISSION FAIL WARNING LIGHT TURNED ON. I LUCKILY MANAGED TO AVOID AN ACCIDENT AND HAD THE CAR TOWED TO A JAGUAR MECHANIC WHO PERFORMED JAGUAR COMPUTER TEST AND DIAGNOSED A FAILED TRANSMISSION. I PROCEEDED TO TAKE CAR TO A JAGUAR DEALERSHIP WHICH CONFIRMED THE SAME. I LEARNED THROUGH THE NHTSA WEBSITE THAT THERE HAD BEEN A RECALL ON THIS SAME TRANSMISSION ISSUE IN THE PAST. I CALLED JAGUAR AND ALSO TRIED TO WORK WITH THE DEALERSHIP BUT THEY BOTH DISMISSED MY COMPLAINT. I HAVE NOT MADE ANY REPAIRS NOR HAVE OPERATED THE VEHICLE SINCE THE ISSUE OCCURRED ON 07-27-07. IT HAS 77,147 MILES. THE CAR HAS ALWAYS BEEN MAINTAINED IN PERFECT WORKING CONDITIONS. THE DEALERSHIP ESTIMATES THE REPAIRS FOR NEW C-21JAZJ TRANSMISSION TO BE $6,000. THE DIAGNOSIS CODES WERE P1722 STALL SPEED TRANSMISSION AND P0734 GEAR 4 OUT OF RANGE. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-04
- VIN: SAJGN5249WC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE VEHICLE STALLED INADVERTENTLY AT HIGH SPEEDS AND AT LOWER SPEEDS. THE CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER, WHO STATED THEY WERE AWARE TO THE PROBLEM. THEY REPLACED THE THROTTLE BODY SYSTEM. THE CONSUMER LEFT THE DEALER AND 5 MINUTES LATER THE VEHICLE STALLED AGAIN. *AK IN ADDITION TO THE STALLING PROBLEM, THE VEHICLE REQUIRED REPLACEMENT OF THE RIGHT WHEEL ROTOR AND CALIPER ON TWO OCCASIONS. *SC
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-15
- VIN: SAJGX2744VC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ALONG THE HIGHWAY AT 70MPH CAR ALL OF SUDDEN DIDN'T HAVE ANY POWER.THERE WERE NO INDICATIONS. FINALLY WAS ABLE TO COAST TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND THE ENGINE CHECK LIGHT CAME ON. THIS HAS HAPPENED, FOUR TIMES. CONTACTED DEALER AND IF FIXED, IT WOULD HAPPEN AGAIN. *AK
1998 Jaguar Xk8 sports recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1998 Jaguar Xk8 sports.
- Manufacturer: JAGUAR CARS
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. FINE CRACKS WITHIN ONE OR MORE OF THE GEAR TEETH WITH IN THE GEAR TRAIN, INSIDE THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION GEARBOX.
- Consequence: THIS CAN RESULT IN BREAKAGE OF THE GEAR TEETH POTENTIALLY CAUSING THE TRANSMISSION TO "LOCK UP" AT SPEEDS BELOW 15 MPH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE AUTOMATIC GEARBOX.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Jaguar Xk8 sports problems:
Jaguar XK-Series Questions - Any Mechanical Issues for 1998 ...
Jan 19, 2018 ... The heater hose ($175 part) behind the engine will leak along with the connecting joints. ... The timing chain tensioners went through three ...
What's the most common problems in a 98-01 XJ8 - Jaguar Forums ...
Jul 1, 2012 ... (2)The plastic thermostat housing will eventually crack and leak. This is inevitable, IT'S JUST PLASTIC! (3)Timing chain tensioners are made ...
XK8 Reliability | FerrariChat
If the engine hasn't been updated, then you might be on borrowed time. I would personally avoid '98 and '99 model year Jag V8s and look at 2000s ...
Looking to buy a 1998-03 XJR whats the best year and what ...
Apr 8, 2007 ... ... engine, jaguar, nikasil, nonadaptive, problems, reliability, shock, shocks, wats, xj8, xjr, xjs · Subscribe. Related Topics. Troubleshooting ...
Jaguar XJ8 1998: Common Engine Problems & Sudden Starting ...
Feb 16, 2009 ... 1998 Jaguar xj8 low compression on all cylinders. run strong sudden starting problem, timeing chains appear ok.
Other years of Jaguar Xk8 sports
Are you having problems with your 1998 Jaguar Xk8 sports?
Leave your review of 1998 Jaguar Xk8 sports