Market Position:
The Jaguar XJ6 (XJ40) was a luxury executive sedan that competed in a premium segment against vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, and Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit. It offered a blend of refined comfort, powerful performance, and distinctive British styling.
Competitive Analysis:
At its introduction, the XJ40 aimed to modernize Jaguar's flagship offering, featuring more advanced electronics and improved build quality compared to its predecessor. However, it faced stiff competition from German manufacturers who were perceived to have a technological edge and more robust build standards. The XJ6's appeal lay in its luxurious interior, smooth ride, and the inherent cachet of the Jaguar brand.
Key Features:
The 1990 Jaguar XJ6 is characterized by its distinctive styling, opulent interior appointments (often featuring leather and wood veneer), independent rear suspension, and a powerful inline-six engine. It represented a significant step forward in luxury car manufacturing for Jaguar during its era.
Systems Covered:
General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Axle
Specific Procedures:
Detailed procedures for engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper and rotor service, fuel injector testing and replacement, steering rack refurbishment, cooling system flush and repair, electrical system troubleshooting using wiring diagrams, body panel alignment and repair, seatbelt mechanism inspection, and more.
Electrical System Details:
The wiring diagrams are a critical component, illustrating the complete electrical system, including power distribution, grounding points, and circuit schematics for lighting, ignition, fuel, climate control, instrumentation, and accessories. Troubleshooting guides for common electrical faults are included.
Procedures Included:
Disassembly, Reassembly, Repair, Service, Maintenance, Refurbishment, Renovation, Mending, Fixing, Diagnostic procedures, Component replacement, Fluid changes, Electrical system diagnosis, Brake system bleeding and adjustment, Suspension alignment, Engine tuning, Fuel system cleaning and testing, Emission control system checks.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance and troubleshooting to detailed repair and overhaul procedures. Includes in-depth understanding of design and construction intricacies.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
The manual provides comprehensive diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for identifying and rectifying common and uncommon issues across all major vehicle systems. It guides users through systematic troubleshooting steps.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-6
Displacement:
3.6 Liters (3590 cc) or 4.0 Liters (3980 cc) depending on market and specific model variant
Bore X Stroke:
For 4.0L: 94.0 mm x 96.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 9.0:1 for 4.0L
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 12 Valves (2 valves per cylinder)
Horsepower Output:
For 4.0L: Approximately 221 hp (165 kW) at 4750 rpm
Torque Output:
For 4.0L: Approximately 274 lb-ft (371 Nm) at 3750 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), typically Lucas/Jaguar or Bosch systems
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (RON 95/98 recommended)
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with distributor and coil
Cooling System Type:
Pressurized liquid cooling system with thermostatically controlled fan
Oil Type:
API SG/SH rated, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 viscosity recommended
ECU Type:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) for fuel injection and ignition timing
Engine Control System Details:
The manual details the operation of the engine control system, including sensor inputs (e.g., TPS, MAP, coolant temp, crank position) and actuator outputs (fuel injectors, ignition coils), and provides diagnostic procedures for ECU fault codes.
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Model:
GM Turbo-Hydramatic 400 (THM400) or ZF 4HP22 electronically controlled depending on market and specific model
Optional Transmission:
Not commonly available for the 1990 XJ6, primarily automatic
Transmission Features:
Selectable drive modes (e.g., 'Sport' or 'Economy' on some ZF units), lock-up torque converter for improved fuel efficiency
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III (for THM400) or ZF LifeguardFluid 4 (for ZF 4HP22) - refer to manual for exact specification
Length:
Approximately 196.7 inches (4996 mm)
Width:
Approximately 70.5 inches (1790 mm)
Height:
Approximately 53.5 inches (1360 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 113.0 inches (2870 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3900-4200 lbs (1770-1905 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not specified, but typically around 4800-5000 lbs
Safety Ratings:
No specific modern crash test ratings are readily available for this era of vehicle, but it was built to contemporary luxury standards.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most models, Power-assisted steering
Passive Safety Features:
Three-point seatbelts, Crumple zones, Padded interior surfaces, Side-impact door beams
Infotainment System:
Early generation infotainment, typically a premium AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD changer. Speaker systems were often branded.
Display:
Analog gauges, basic digital display for trip computer and climate control on some models.
Driver Assistance:
ABS, Cruise Control (standard on most models)
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily internal features like central locking and power accessories.
Climate Control System:
Automatic climate control with A/C, often with separate temperature controls for driver and passenger
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 miles (9,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (recommendation, consult manual for specific details)
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months (recommendation, consult manual for specific details)
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 24,000 miles (38,000 km) or 24 months (recommendation, consult manual for specific details)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) (recommendation)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter change
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 9.5 Liters (10 US Quarts)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Specify type according to manual, often Dexron II/III or a specific Jaguar fluid
Known Issues:
Corrosion on bodywork and subframes, potential issues with ABS sensors and control modules, aging rubber components (hoses, bushings), electrical gremlins due to complex wiring harnesses, head gasket issues (less common on later 4.0L but possible), SLS (Self-Levelling Suspension) pump and accumulator leaks.
Maintenance Tips:
Regular inspection of the rubber suspension bushings and engine mounts is crucial to maintain ride quality and prevent premature wear. Attention to the cooling system's integrity, especially hoses and radiator, is paramount to prevent overheating. Periodic checking and cleaning of the ABS sensor rings can prevent erroneous ABS activation.
Brand Heritage:
Jaguar has a long-standing reputation for producing luxurious, performance-oriented grand tourers and sports cars with distinctive styling and engineering. The XJ series represents the pinnacle of their luxury sedan offerings.
Model Evolution:
The XJ40 generation replaced the XJ-S (as the primary luxury sedan) and represented a significant redesign for Jaguar's flagship. It was produced from 1986 to 1994, with the 1990 model year falling within the early to mid-production run. Updates occurred throughout its lifespan, including engine enhancements and minor styling revisions.
Production Years:
1986-1994
Manufacturing Location:
Coventry, England, United Kingdom