1998 Jaguar Xk8 problems
The Jaguar XK8 (project code X100) is a grand tourer launched by Jaguar Cars in 1996, and was the first generation of a new XK series. The XK8 was available in two-door coupé or two-door convertible body styles with the new 4.0-litre Jaguar AJ-V8 engine. In 1998, the XKR was introduced with a supercharged version of the engine. In 2003, the engines were replaced by the new 4.2-litre AJ34 engines in both the naturally aspirated and supercharged variations. The first-generation of the XK series shares its XJS-derived platform with the Aston Martin DB7, with both cars tracing their history back to an abandoned Jaguar development study in the mid-1980s known as XJ41/XJ42, which had been mooted to be known as the F-Type.
One of the revisions is the use of the second generation of Jaguar's independent rear suspension unit, taken from the Jaguar XJ (XJ40). Development began in 1992, with design work starting earlier in late 1991. By October 1992 a design was chosen and later frozen for production in 1993. Prototypes were built from December 1993 after the X100 was given formal approval and design patents were filed in June 1994. Development concluded in 1996, with the car being unveiled in March of that year and going on sale from October 1996.
XJ41/XJ42 concept (1986)
The stylistic predecessor of the XK8 were a pair of completely unrelated concepts as far back as 1982, when Jaguar realised that the XJ-S had grown too large in size and weight to be classed as a proper successor to the E-Type. Then, two new projects, codenamed the XJ41 (coupé) and XJ42 (convertible) got to an advanced state of development. However, the project was cancelled when Ford Motor Company took over Jaguar in 1989, and the newly installed management determined that upgrading the company's dated production facilities was a higher priority. The XJ-S was given a major facelift (being renamed the XJS) instead as a stop gap solution. The XJ41/XJ42 studies ultimately evolved into the Aston Martin DB7 and the Jaguar XK8 which were launched in 1994 and 1996 respectively.
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Common 1998 Jaguar Xk8 problems
The Jaguar XK8, produced in 1998, is known for its luxurious design and performance. However, it also has a reputation for reliability issues, particularly with certain components. One common problem is with the hydraulic fluid that affects the convertible top. Flushing the hydraulic fluid can help resolve this issue.
Another concern is the transmission, specifically the A drum in the transmission, which can fail due to worn-out valve bodies spiking fluid pressure. This problem is common in the XK8 transmission, and repairing it can cost between $3,000 and $4,000. To avoid this issue, it is recommended to check the transmission service history, especially if the car has reached or is nearing 100,000 miles. If the transmission valve body hasn't been replaced or the car hasn't had a recent rebuild, a significant repair bill may be on the horizon.
The early XK8 models, particularly from 1996 to 1997, have plastic chain tensioners that can make a slapping noise when starting the car. This issue can be resolved by replacing the plastic tensioners with metal ones, which is a relatively easy and inexpensive fix
Electrical issues are also a known problem in the Jaguar XK8. While not as common as mechanical problems, they can still be a source of frustration for owners. It is essential to address any electrical issues promptly to prevent further damage to the vehicle.
Lastly, the Jaguar XK8's interior is generally well-regarded, but some owners have reported issues with the convertible top, particularly in terms of leaks and malfunctions. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these issues from becoming more significant problems.
In summary, the Jaguar XK8, while a luxurious and high-performing vehicle, has several common problems that owners should be aware of. These issues include hydraulic fluid problems affecting the convertible top, transmission failures, plastic chain tensioners, electrical issues, and convertible top malfunctions. Regular maintenance, inspections, and prompt repairs can help mitigate these problems and ensure the longevity and reliability of the Jaguar XK8.
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 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.
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.
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 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Jaguar Xk8 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Visibility problems
- Fuel system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Jaguar Xk8 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1998 Jaguar Xk8
The NHTSA has received 32 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Jaguar Xk8. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1998 Jaguar Xk8 vehicles.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-28
- VIN: SAJGX2247WC
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: WOULD NOT START, BATTERY RUN DOWN IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK. STATIONARY
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-23
- VIN: SAJGX5246WC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: WHY HASN'T JAGUAR BEEN ORDERED TO RECALL THE 1997 THROUGH 2002 1/2 MODELS FOR THE TIMING BELT TENSIONER PLASTIC GUIDE ISSUE? IT HAS BEEN REPORTED HERE IN THE PAST, AND IS WIDELY KNOWN ACROSS THE INTERNET. I WOULD JUST LIKE TO KNOW WHY NHTSA HASN'T CONSIDERED THIS DESIGN DEFECT TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR A RECALL WHEN IT IS CLEARLY A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-23
- VIN: SAJGX2245WC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JAGUAR XK8. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN DRIVING BETWEEN 35-50 MPH, THERE WAS A GROWLING NOISE COMING FROM THE TRANSMISSION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS HESITANT WHEN ACCELERATING AND THE NOISE DOES WOULD NOT STOP UNTIL THE VEHICLE REACHED 50 MPH AND ABOVE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE WOULD ALSO OCCUR WHEN DECELERATING. THE DEALER INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND ASSUMED THAT THE PLANETARY GEARS WERE FAILING AND THAT THE TRANSMISSION SHOULD BE REPLACED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 50,600 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 50,700.
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-04-25
- VIN: SAJGX5248WC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: 1998 XK8 STALLED AT FREEWAY SPEEDS. THIRD INCIDENT. DEALER UNABLE TO DUPLICATE; NO REPAIR SUGGESTIONS. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-03-15
- VIN: SAJGX5248WC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: IN TWO SEPARATE INSTANCES, MY 1998 JAGUAR XK8 HAS STALLED WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. IN BOTH CASES, I HAD STARTED THE ENGINE FROM COLD AT ABOUT 50 DEGREES AMBIENT TEMPERATURE, DRIVEN ABOUT THREE MILES IN CITY TRAFFIC, AND THEN ENTERED THE FREEWAY. WITHIN ABOUT 1 1/2 MILES, AT A SPEED NEAR 60MPH, THE CAR STALLED. AN ENGINE MONITORING SYSTEM MESSAGE READ: 'ENGINE STALLED" AND "CHECK ENGINE". THESE MESSAGES WERE NOT PRESENT PREVIOUS TO THE INCIDENTS, NOR AFTER I RESTARTED THE VEHICLE. I WAS ABLE TO PULL OFF THE FREEWAY. IN BOTH CASES, I TURNED THE IGNITION SWITCH TO OFF, AND WAS ABLE TO IMMEDIATELY RESTART THE CAR. NO FURTHER INCIDENTS OCCURRED IN THE MINUTES/DAYS FOLLOWING THE EVENTS. I USE PREMIUM UNLEADED FUEL FROM CHEVRON OR UNION 66. THESE TWO INCIDENTS WERE SEPARATED IN TIME BY ABOUT 2 MONTHS. I AM NOW VERY CONCERNED ABOUT DRIVING THE VEHICLE, AS THESE INCIDENTS EXPOSED ME TO POSSIBLY DANGEROUS SITUATIONS. THE LOCAL DEALER HAS OFFERED TO 'DIAGNOSE THE PROBLEM' AT MY COST, WHILE ALSO INDICATING THAT THEY HAVE HAD SOME SIMILAR COMPLAINTS THAT THEY ARE LINKING TO HIGH CONCENTRATIONS OF ETHANOL IN THE FUEL. THEIR ADVICE IS TO WAIT A COUPLE OF WEEKS FROM NOW WHEN ETHANOL LEVELS WILL BE REDUCED AND/OR SWITCH TO REGULAR GASOLINE! AFTER SOME RESEARCH, I NOW FIND THAT THIS SITUATION HAS OCCURRED FREQUENTLY AMONG JAGUAR OWNERS, AND POSSIBLY OTHERS. TO ME, THIS SEEMS TO BE AN ENGINE MANAGEMENT ISSUE THAT WOULD BE CONTROLLED BY THE CAR'S COMPUTERIZED EFI SYSTEM. *TR
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-04-16
- VIN: SAJGX2240WC
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: MY REAR VISION MIRROR FAILED. IT FOGGED UP AND BEGAN LEAKING AN OILY SUBSTANCE. I COULDN'T SEE; IT WAS RAINING AND I HAD A PERILOUS JOURNEY HOME. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-10-20
- VIN: SAJGX2244WC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: 1998 JAGUAR XK8 HAS A HISTORY OF STALLING ON THE FREEWAY AT SPEEDS OF 55-60MPH. THIS OCCURRED TWICE (PRIOR OWNER - 38,246 MILES) - PRIOR OWNER TOLD BY JAGUAR THAT AUTOMOBILE HAD BEEN REPAIRED BY REPLACING THROTTLE. SAME INCIDENT OCCURRED AT LATER. ON-LINE INFORMATION SHOWS THAT SEVERAL OTHER 1998 XK8 OWNERS HAVE THE SAME ISSUE THAT ENGINE TURNS OFF WITHOUT WARNING - THE CAR HAS A DESIGN FLAW. THERE HAS BEEN RECALLS REGARDING THE THROTTLE. I DO NOT UNDERSTAND WHY THE NHTSB HAS NOT FORCED JAGUAR TO REPAIR THIS 1998 XK8. THE MODEL, 1998 JAGUAR XK8, HAS A DESIGN FLAW AND IS A SAFETY RISK. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-03-01
- VIN: SAJGX524XWC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JAGUAR XK8. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION IS FAILING AND IS NOT SHIFTING GEARS CORRECTLY. THE VEHICLE WILL BE TOWED TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THEY WERE NOT AWARE OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 99V138000 (POWER TRAIN: AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION). THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 65,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-08-22
- VIN: SAJGX5249WC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JAGUAR XK8. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD A LOUD SOUND UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. HE WAS UNABLE TO SHIFT INTO ANY GEAR. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THERE WAS A LOCK-UP IN THE AUTOMATIC GEAR BOX. IN ADDITION, THE TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE CURRENTLY IS NOT OPERABLE. THE AUTHORIZED DEALER ORDERED THE REPLACEMENT TRANSMISSION. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 110,000.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-07-14
- VIN: SAJGX2240WC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE VEHICLE, WITHOUT ANY WARNING AND INSTANTANEOUSLY AT SPEED LIMIT IN A FREEWAY TRAVEL LANE, CEASED TO OPERATE. THIS HAPPENED ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS SINCE FIRST ACQUIRED WITH LESS THAN 4,000 MILES USE. EACH TIME THIS CAUSED THE DRIVER (MY WIFE) TO CONDUCT AN EMERGENCY PROCEDURE - HIT THE EMERGENCY FLASHERS, SHIFT TO NEUTRAL, AND RESTART THE CAR WHILE IT WAS DECELERATING. THE LAST TIME WAS ON JULY 14, 2008. THE POWER STEERING, POWER BRAKES, SAFETY HANDLING SYSTEMS, AND ENGINE WERE INOPERABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED JAGUAR DEALERSHIP WHERE THE PROBLEM WAS ACKNOWLEDGED, DIAGNOSED, AND OSTENSIBLY REPAIRED. THE REPAIR WAS INEFFECTIVE AND WITHIN A FEW DAYS OF THE FIRST REPAIR THE VEHICLE FAILED IN THE SAME WAY AGAIN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN A SECOND TIME TO THE AUTHORIZED JAGUAR DEALER WHERE ANOTHER REPAIR WAS CONDUCTED. FOLLOWING THIS REPAIR THE INCIDENT DID NOT REOCCUR UNTIL JULY 14, 2008. THAT DAY, WHILE AT FREEWAY SPEEDS IN A TRAVEL LANE, THE VEHICLE CEASED OPERATION WITH NO WARNING ONCE AGAIN. THIS TIME HOWEVER IT WOULD NOT RESTART AS STATED ABOVE AND THE VEHICLE COASTED TO A SMALL GORE-POINT BETWEEN TWO CONCRETE TOLL BOOTHS WHILE TRAFFIC AVOIDED THE VEHICLE TO EACH SIDE. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START FROM NEUTRAL, BUT HAD TO BE PLACED IN PARK IN ORDER TO RESTART. FOR THE THIRD TIME, THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED JAGUAR DEALERSHIP WHERE THE SERVICE TECHNICAL ATTEMPTED THE JAGUAR "SERVICE ACTION". THE PROCEDURE FAILED, THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALLY DISABLED, AND THE CAR COULD NOT BE STARTED FOR TWO WEEKS. A JAGUAR FACTORY FIELD EMPLOYEE AND A MECHANIC FROM OUT OF THE AREA WORKED ON IT AND NOW REPORT THAT "EVERYTHING IS FINE". THEY HAVE REINSTALLED THE DEFECTIVE ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT AND REPORT THAT THEY ARE CONFIDENT THAT THIS TIME THERE WILL BE NO MORE TROUBLE OF THIS NATURE. I DO NOT SHARE THEIR CONFIDENCE. I ASK THAT NHTSA INVESTIGATE THIS PROBLEM AND ASSESS THE SAFETY RISK OF THE JAGUAR CARS "SERVICE ACTION" PROCEDURE. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-11-28
- VIN: SAJGX5249WC
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JAGUAR XK8. THE CONTACT DISCOVERED NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 98V022000 (VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL) ONLINE AND WAS NEVER NOTIFIED BY THE MANUFACTURER. THE DEALER STATED THAT THEY COULD NOT SERVICE THE VEHICLE BECAUSE THEY DID NOT HAVE TIME. HE ALSO TOOK HIS VEHICLE TO A JAGUAR DEALER IN DARIAN, CT FROM 1998-2004 FOR SERVICE AND THEY NEVER PERFORMED A REPAIR OR INFORMED HIM OF THE RECALL. THERE HAD BEEN NO FAILURE TO DATE. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 61,000.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-04-11
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TIMING TENSIONER DEFECT- 1998 JAGUAR XK8 WITH 50000 MILES. ENGINE FAILED TO START AFTER LOUD POPPING NOISE. NO PREVIOUS ISSUES PRIOR. CAUSE-PLASTIC TIMING TENSIONERS FAILED, CAUSING TIMING CHAIN TO BREAK AND DAMAGE PISTONS. SOLUTION NEW ENGINE. DEALER QUOTED $14,000. THIS CAR WAS REGULARLY MAINTAINED. MY MECHANIC STATED HE WAS AWARE OF A PROBLEM WITH TENSIONERS, AND JAGUAR HAD REDESIGNED THEM FOR LATER MODELS. THIS WAS A KNOWN DEFECT ON LOW MILEAGE VEHICLES! THERE WERE MANY DOCUMENTED CASES. JAGUAR REFUSED TO ACKNOWLEDGE AND OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-03-03
- VIN: SAJGX2249WC
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: I HAVE A 1998 JAGUAR XK8 CONVERTIBLE. CURRENT MILEAGE 37,334. TWICE, WHILE DRIVING AT 60 MPH, THE ENGINE JUST CUT OUT. AFTER PULLING TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND WAITING SEVERAL MINUTES I WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE ENGINE. THE FIRST TIME THIS HAPPENED, I ATTRIBUTED TO POSSIBLE A BAD TANK OF GAS ON MARCH 2006. AFTER THE SECOND TIME ON MARCH 2007. I FEARED IT HAD ANOTHER CAUSE. JUST ABOUT THAT TIME I RECEIVED FROM JAGUAR A "SERVICE ACTION" S-514 STATING THAT THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH CLOSED THROTTLE OPERATION, AND IT SOUNDED LIKE MY PROBLEM. I E-MAILED THEM SEVERAL TIMES TO ASK ABOUT AN AUTHORIZED SERVICE FACILITY TO HAVE IT REPAIRED. THEY REFERRED ME TO CUSTOMER SERVICE. A REP CALLED TO SAY I COULD ONLY HAVE IT FIXED ON THE MAINLAND! THAT OF COURSE, WOULD COST ME FEW THOUSAND DOLLARS. I ASKED IF IT COULD BE FIXED BY SOMEONE HERE LOCALLY AT MY COST. SHE SAID "WE CAN'T RECOMMEND THAT". NOT HELPFUL AT ALL. MY COMPLAINT, HOWEVER, HAS MORE TO DO WITH HOW THIS PROBLEM IS CLASSIFIED. THIS SHOULD BE A "SAFETY RECALL" NOT SIMPLY A SERVICE ACTION. BOTH INCIDENTS PUT ME AND OTHERS IN A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION. ONCE I WAS FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO HAVE NO ONE DIRECTLY BEHIND ME. THE SECOND TIME I CAUSED SEVERAL CARS BEHIND ME TO SWERVE OFF THE ROAD OR SKID INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC. I WAS JUST LUCKY THAT NO ONE WAS SERIOUSLY INJURED OR KILLED. I CHECKED YOUR SITE FOR COMPLAINTS. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR YEARS!!! APPARENTLY, I'M NOT THE ONLY ONE FORCED INTO A DANGEROUS SITUATION HOW IS IT POSSIBLE THAT THIS IS NOT CONSIDERED A SAFETY RECALL? BY BEING A "SERVICE ACTION" JAGUAR CAN JUST IGNORE ME. I BELIEVE THEY SHOULD MAKE MORE OF AN EFFORT TO FIX MY CAR OR HELP IN FINDING SOMEONE WHO WILL...AT THEIR COST. CAN THEY DO THIS LEGALLY? *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-07-28
- VIN: SAJGX224XWC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: JAGUAR XK8. VEHICLE WITH 54K MILES ALWAYS DEALER SERVICES. TIMING CHAIN BROKE WHILE DRIVING, WAS ABLE TO GET CAR OUT OF TRAFFIC WITHOUT INCIDENT. CONTACTED JAGUAR AND THEY DID NOT EVEN ACKNOWLEDGE THERE WAS A PROBLEM. JAGUAR HAS KNOWN THE PLASTIC TIMING CHAIN GUIDES TO BE DEFECTIVE. THE HAVE HAD TWO DESIGN REVISIONS AND NOW PUT A METAL GUIDE IN THE CARS SINCE 2002. JAGUAR DOES NOT ADVISE OWNERS OR DEALERS TO REPLACE THE GUIDES WHICH EVEN WITHOUT THEIR ASSISTANCE I WOULD HAVE HAD DONE AT $800. THE DEFECTIVE GUIDE CAUSES THE CHAIN TO BREAK AND VALVE DAMAGE, A $7K REPAIR. THE DEALER AND INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOPS TELL ME THEY ARE REPAIRING THESE ALL THE TIME IN LOW MILEAGE ENGINES 45-70K AND THE INTERNET IS LITTERED WITH THE SAME. HARD TO BELIEVE JAGUAR HAS NOT BEEN FORCED IN TO A RECALL OR SOME TYPE OF VOLUNTARY REPAIR PROGRAM. BOTTOM LINE - ENGINE PART WITH KNOWN, DOCUMENTED DEFECT, THAT CAUSES CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE, WITH NO ACTION BY THE MANUFACTURER. *JB
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-02-24
- VIN: SAJGX2242WC
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WINDSHIELD WIPERS SUDDENLY STOPPED WORKING IN THE MIDDLE OF RAIN STORM CAUSING ME TO LOSE VISIBILITY. NO WARNING - THE WIPERS JUST STOP AS THE NUT HOLDING THE WIPER ARM HAS BECOME LOOSENED/STRIPPED. TWO PREVIOUS TIMES THIS HAS BEEN REPAIRED. THIS IS A DESIGN DEFECT. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-24
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: MY 1998 XK8 JAGUAR TIMING CHAIN BROKE AND RUINED THE ENGINE REQUIRING A NEW ONE FOR $11,000 WITH ONLY 49,000 MILES ON IT. I HAD TAKEN IT TO THE DEALER FOR SERVICE THE ENTIRE TIME. THIS IS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM OCCURING WITHIN THE JAGUAR LINE. JAGUAR REFUSES TO HELP AND TRIES TO KEEP IT UNDER WRAP UNTIL THE WARRANTY EXPIRES. IT IS A WELL KNOWN DESIGN FLAW THAT HAS COST TONS OF PEOPLE THOUSANDS. MY CAR ALSO STALLED WITHOUT WARNING ON THE HIGHWAY AND THIS TOO IS A COMMON PROBLEM. BOTH OF THESE COULD HAVE CAUSED ME SERIOUS INJURY.*AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-22
- VIN: SAJHX6246WC
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CONSUME RECEIVED RECALL 99V138000 FOR THE THROTTLE BODY. CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO DEALER, AND THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN FOR A TEST AFTER INSTALLATION OF THE THROTTLE BODY, AND THE THERMOSTAT WENT OUT. VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED, AND THE CONSUMER WAS CHARGED FOR THE NEW PARTS. DEALER WAS INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE THE VEHICLE PRIOR TO MAKING REPAIRS TO THE THROTTLE BODY. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-08-16
- VIN: SAJGX2243WC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: I PURCHASED A USED 1998 JAGUAR XK8 WITH 40000 MILES IN NOV 2004. IT IMMEDIATELY STARTED STALLING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. I TOOK IT TO A LOCAL DEALER IN LITTLE ROCK ARKANSAS, AND THAY TOLD ME THAT THEY COULD FIND NOTHING WRONG WITH THE CAR BUT CHARGED ME $1,600.00 FOR SERVICE THAT WAS NOT NECESSARY. WITHIN WEEKS IT AGAIN BEGAN DYING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS AND WOULD NOT RE-START WITHOUT PULLING OFF THE ROAD, WHICH IS AT TIMES IMPOSSIBLE DUE TO I-30 BEING UNDER CONSTRUCTION AND HAVING NO SHOULDER OR EXITS, ONLY 6-FOOT CONCRETE BARRIERS ON EITHER SIDE OF THE TWO LANE HIGHWAY. I WAS AT THE MERCY OF EVERY DRIVER BEHIND ME. THIS IS A LIFE THREATENING SITUATION THAT JAGUAR DENIES HAVING ANY KNOWLEGE OF. I HAVE RECENTLY FOUND HUNDREDS OF COMPLAINTS ON THIS ISSUE WITH JAG OWNERS WHO HAVE HAD THE SAME PROBLEM. FORD HAS ISSUED A FIELD ACTION THAT ADMITS THAT THE THROTTLE-BODY IS DEFECTIVE, BUT THEY'RE NOT FIXING THE CARS IN THE U.S., ONLY IN OTHER COUNTRIES. PLEASE DO SOMETHING BEFORE SOMEONE IS KILLED.*AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-06-08
- VIN: SAJGX2243WC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: HEADLIGHTS SUDDENLY FAILED FOR NO APPARENT REASON-ELECTRICAL. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: SAJGX5246WC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH ON THE HIGHWAY, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT ANY WARNING. DEALER REPLACED THE THROTTLE BOX, AND THE OXYGEN SENSORS, BUT THE STALLING CONTINUED. *AK *TT *JB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: SAJGX5247WC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: PROBLEMS WITH VEHICLE'S TRANSMISSION. ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS UPON REVERSING OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY INTO TRAFFIC THE CAR WILL NOT GO INTO DRIVE FROM REVERSE. THE CONSUMER HAD TO SIT AND GO BACK INTO DRIVE UNTIL IT WORKS. TWICE WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY (70) MPH THE CAR HAD JUST STOPPED FOR NO APPARENT REASON. AFTER GETTING IT OFF THE LANE AND NUMEROUS TRIES IT STARTED AGAIN. *MR *CB *JB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING IN REVERSE, CONSUMER IS NOT ABLE TO PLACE GEAR IN DRIVE UNLESS MOVES TO PARK FIRST. DEALER HAS REPLACED SHIFTER 5 TIMES, BUT PROBLEM CONTINUES TO OCCUR. VEHICLE IS A 1998 JAGUAR XK8. *AK *CB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-06-16
- VIN: SAJGX5247WC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: THE VEHICLE STALLED INTERMITTENTLY WITHOUT WARNING.*AK THE GEAR SHIFT FAILED TO COME OUT OF PARK. *TS ALSO THE ANTENNA AND POWER MIRROR SWITCH WAS REPLACED AND THE COOLANT LIGHT ILLUMINATED. *JB
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-03-10
- VIN: SAJGX2247WC
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT 45 MPH DRIVERS SEAT BROKE AWAY FROM TRACK PUTTING ME INTO THE BACK SEAT CAUSING TEMPORARY LOSS OF CONTROL AND RUNNING OFF SIDE OF ROAD RIPPING FRONT SPOILER OFF CAR. WENT INTO DEALER WHO CALLED JAGUAR ABOUT PROBLEM. MFG. DECLINE TO PAY FOR REPAIRS STATING CAR OUT OF WARRANTY. *NLM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-06-05
- VIN: SAJGX2249WC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CRUISE CONTROL SET AT 65 MPH, ENGINE STALLED AND COMPLETELY SHUT DOWN...RESTARTED AND HAS RAN FINE SINCE....JUST WORRIED IT MAY HAPPEN AGAIN IN TRAFFIC!
1998 Jaguar Xk8 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1998 Jaguar Xk8.
- Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
- Consequence: 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.
- Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
- Manufacturer: JAGUAR CARS
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE CABLE ADJUSTER BRACKET NUT ON THE OUTER SLEEVE OF THE THROTTLE CABLE CAN BECOME DISPLACED FROMTHE CABLE ABUTMENT BRACKET ON THE ENGINE.
- Consequence: SHOULD THIS OCCUR, LIMITED OPENING OF THE THROTTLE WILL OCCUR, EVEN WITH THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL FULLY DEPRESSED TO THE FLOOR.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THESE VEHICLES AND MODIFY THE THROTTLE CABLE SYSTEM.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Jaguar Xk8 problems:
Jaguar XK-Series Questions - Any Mechanical Issues for 1998 ...
Jan 19, 2018 ... Best Answer. Used Jaguars are very maintenance and repair intensive. They are very expensive to repair and can have electrical issues. Avoid ...
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1998 Jaguar XK8 Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
Problem with your 1998 Jaguar XK8? Our list of 6 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1998 Jaguar XK8.
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Aug 24, 2010 ... The brakes are good and the tires are new. He is selling it to me for $11k. I am a little nervous about it because of all the problems I have ...
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 ...
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