2003 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 2003 Jaguar Xk8 problems
The Jaguar XK8, produced between 1996 and 2006, has been known for a number of common problems that have been reported by owners.
One of the most common issues is related to the hydraulic fluid that powers the convertible top. Flushing the hydraulic fluid can help to fix problems with opening and closing the convertible top.
The early Jaguar XK8 models have plastic chain tensioners that can cause a slapping sound when the car is started. These tensioners are not keeping the chain in tension, which can lead to a loose chain when the car is started. The good news is that this issue is relatively easy to fix, as the plastic chain tensioners can be replaced without having to pull the engine or remove the hood. The parts are also relatively cheap
The transmission in the Jaguar XK8 has also been known to cause problems. The A drum in the transmission can grenade with regularity, which is caused by the valve body getting worn and spiking the fluid pressure. However, these transmissions were built to be taken apart and fixed, and upgraded pressure regulators can make rebuilt versions of these transmissions run well beyond their original intended service life. The bad news is that tearing into a transmission is almost guaranteed to be a $3,000 to $4,000 job.
The electronics in the Jaguar XK8 have also been known to cause small niggling problems. However, these issues are generally not major and are more related to quirkiness in the electronics.
The hydraulics in the convertible top of the Jaguar XK8 have also been known to cause problems, particularly in terms of leaks. Replacing the pump can be an expensive fix.
Overall, the Jaguar XK8 has been known for a number of common problems, particularly in the early models. However, many of these issues can be fixed with relatively simple repairs, and the later models are generally considered to be more reliable.
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 is the fuel consumption of a 2003 Jaguar XK8?
Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 22 - 24 mpg.
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.
2003 Jaguar Xk8 complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Jaguar Xk8.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2003 Jaguar Xk8 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2003 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).
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Jaguar Xk8 problems:
[xk8] Jaguar XKR, any issues, problems, downside? - XK8 - Jag ...
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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 ...
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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 ... He says the only real problem the early ones have is that they were shipped with a badly designed thermostat. This causes the engine to overheat ...
2003 Jaguar XK8 Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
Top 2003 Jaguar XK8 Problems · Flush Hydraulic Fluid to Fix Problems Opening/Closing Convertible Top. 83 people have reported this · Center Arm Rest Cup Holder ...
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