Jaguar XJ Common Problems and Solutions
Poor Engine Performance
Problem:
The engine has started to misfire, and there is a noticeable drop in power. The car is hard to start and often misfires. The check engine light may also be on.
Solution:
The ignition coils on the XJ are not usually a problem, but even the most well-maintained car will eventually have issues. Replacing an ignition coil is a fiddly job, but perfectly possible to do yourself to save a high garage bill. Find a new coil on our parts list for the XJ for quick delivery.
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Ignition Coil
Overheating
Problem:
Your engine has started to overheat even during short journeys. You may also notice a sweet smell when the engine is running and coloured liquid beneath the car where you've parked.
Solution:
The coolant reservoir on the XJ is extremely prone to rapid wear and can develop cracks very quickly. That means coolant will be leaking around your engine. Check your reservoir for any cracks. If the wear is minor, then you may be able to seal them and solve the problem. If the cracks are too large, then you'll need to order a replacement from our parts page.
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Faulty Roof (All convertibles)
Problem:
Your roof has either stopped opening/closing or takes a very long time to do either.
Solution:
This is often due to sub-par hydraulic fluid. Flush the fluid and replace it with a Jaguar-approved version.
Difficulty level
Burning Smell
Problem:
There is a burning smell inside and outside the car when the engine is running.
Solution:
A common issue with the XJ, it's likely that you have a leaking engine oil pan gasket. You can find a new gasket on our parts list, and they are a lot easier to install than you might assume.
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Windows Stop Moving
Problem:
One or more of your electric windows has stopped working and may be stuck in the up or down position.
Solution:
The front and rear window regulators on the XJ are very prone to premature wear and will need to be replaced. It's a big job simply because removing the interior panels is quite challenging. However, once they are removed, fitting the regulators that you can order direct from our store is very simple.
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Window Regulator Mechanism
DSC warning light
Problem:
The DSC warning light is for the driver stability control system and is related to an ABS problem. If this warning light has appeared on the dashboard, the most likely cause of this warning light is a faulty ABS sensor.
Solution:
You will need to run a diagnostic check to correctly identify exactly which wheel the faulty sensor is on. Once you have identified the faulty sensor, you will need to fit a replacement ABS sensor to fix the problem. We can help you find a replacement ABS sensor at a very low price. The video below will give you an idea how to replace an ABS sensor:
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ABS Sensor
Front doors rattling
Problem:
Are you noticing a rattling sound coming from the bottom of either of the front doors? If so, there are known issues with the door seals failing.
Solution:
You will need to replace the door seals to stop the rattling noise.
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DPF warning light
Problem:
Has the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) warning light appeared on the dashboard? The DPF is responsible for removing harmful particles from the exhaust system and can get clogged up if the car is only used for short journeys around the town etc. Vehicles fitted with a DPF are not really suited to short journeys only.
Solution:
You can take the car onto a motorway and drive at about 2500rpm for about 10 miles to allow the DPF to get hot enough to burn off these unwanted particles. This should turn off the DPF warning light on the dashboard.
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Airbag Fault
Problem:
Your airbags may not deploy in the event of a collision.
Solution:
There was a recall of XJs built between 2009 and 2019 due to a misprogrammed Restraint Control Module (RCM). It will often revert to its default level calibration, meaning that it will be much less responsive. Your RCM will need a software update to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Rear lights condensated
Problem:
The rear lights on the latest version of the XJ (2010-onwards) are a very complex shape and are prone to water getting inside the lens. This leads to build up of condensation.
Solution:
You will need to get new seals fitted to stop any moisture getting inside the lens.
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Power Steering Fault
Problem:
You have lost power steering and have to work harder to take a turn.
Solution:
This will usually be nothing more than an electrical short circuit. Jaguar should make the repair for free even if your car isn't covered by a warranty.
Difficulty level
Loss of Brake Power
Problem:
You have to apply more and more pressure to the brake pedal to come to a stop.
Solution:
If your XJ was built between February and July 2014, then there's a good chance that you have leaking brake pipes. The union joints weren't tightened correctly and will need to be replaced. You can find joints on our parts list, but most Jaguar dealers will replace them for free.
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