Luxury Sedan Segment:
The Jaguar XJ6 of this era represented the pinnacle of British luxury, offering a blend of performance, refinement, and distinctive styling. It competed with German luxury sedans like Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W126/W140 S-Class, BMW E23/E32 7 Series, Audi V8/A8, Lexus LS400.
Design And Luxury:
Renowned for its opulent interior, smooth ride quality, and classic Jaguar styling. The XJ40 introduced a more modern, albeit controversial, design compared to the Series III.
Performance Offering:
Smooth and powerful inline-six engines, emphasizing grand touring comfort over outright sportiness, though capable of spirited driving.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Driveshafts, Differentials, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front & Rear), Electrical System, HVAC, Bodywork, Interior Trim, Body Electronics, Diagnostics & Troubleshooting, Routine Maintenance, Torque Specifications
Estimated Page Count:
800+
Manual Type:
Complete Repair and Service Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed overhaul procedures for 3.6L (25DP, 26DP) and 4.0L (AJ6) inline-six engines, including cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing gears/chains, and lubrication system.
Fuel And Ignition:
Comprehensive coverage of Lucas/Bosch fuel injection systems, ignition systems, fuel pumps, injectors, and related sensors.
Transmission And Drivetrain
Transmission Coverage:
Service and repair procedures for the BorgWarner/Getrag 5-speed manual transmission and the ZF 4HP22 automatic transmission, including torque converter, valve body, and clutch pack service. Covers rear axle and driveshaft maintenance.
Suspension Steering Coverage:
Detailed information on independent front and rear suspension, including wishbones, shock absorbers, springs, bush replacement, power steering system servicing, and wheel alignment specifications.
Brake Coverage:
Coverage of the Jaguar 'J-gate' ABS system (later models), Girling disc brakes (front and rear), caliper overhaul, brake fluid specifications, and bleeding procedures. Handbrake adjustments.
Electrical Coverage:
Extensive wiring diagrams, fuse box locations and ratings, relay functions, starter motor, alternator, battery system, lighting, instrumentation, and body electrical components.
HVAC Coverage:
Service and repair of the automatic climate control system, including refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator, and blower motor.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter servicing, coolant flushes, brake pad and disc replacement, suspension bush replacement, drive belt inspection and replacement, battery checks.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common mechanical, electrical, and fuel system issues.
Overhaul Procedures:
Complete engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacements, and brake system rebuilds.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive from basic owner maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed specifications, torque values, and diagnostic information.
Engine Type Series Iii:
Jaguar AJ6 3.6L Inline-6 (25DP/26DP)
Engine Type Xj40:
Jaguar AJ6 4.0L Inline-6 (40DP) - introduced 1987
Engine Type X300:
Jaguar AJ16 4.0L Inline-6 (Naturally Aspirated and Supercharged)
Horsepower 3.6L Aj6:
Approx. 220-225 hp (depending on market and spec)
Torque 3.6L Aj6:
Approx. 270-280 lb-ft
Horsepower 4.0L Aj6:
Approx. 221-245 hp (depending on spec)
Torque 4.0L Aj6:
Approx. 285-300 lb-ft
Horsepower 4.0L Aj16 Naturally Aspirated:
Approx. 237 hp
Torque 4.0L Aj16 Naturally Aspirated:
Approx. 284 lb-ft
Horsepower 4.0L Aj16 Supercharged:
Approx. 303 hp
Torque 4.0L Aj16 Supercharged:
Approx. 355 lb-ft
Fuel Injection System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Lucas/Bosch variants
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating specified in manual)
Block Material:
Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Timing Drive:
Timing Chains (multi-row on later AJ6/AJ16 for improved reliability)
Transmission Type Early:
BorgWarner T-5 (5-speed Manual) - less common, primarily on Series III
Transmission Type Mid:
Getrag 265 (5-speed Manual) - fitted to some XJ40 models
Transmission Type Auto Standard:
ZF 4HP22 (4-speed Automatic) - standard on most models
Transmission Type Auto Xj40 Later:
ZF 4HP24 (4-speed Automatic with 'J-gate' shifter) - introduced on later XJ40s
Automatic Transmission Features:
Lock-up torque converter for improved fuel efficiency at cruising speeds. 'J-gate' offered manual selection of gears (e.g., 1, 2, 3, D).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Type 'G' Fluid or Dexron-II/III (refer to specific model year and manual for exact spec)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (viscosity specified in manual, e.g., 75W-90)
Wheelbase Series Iii:
116.7 inches (2964 mm)
Wheelbase Xj40:
113.1 inches (2873 mm)
Length Xj40:
Approx. 195-198 inches (4953-5029 mm)
Width Xj40:
Approx. 70.5 inches (1791 mm)
Height Xj40:
Approx. 53.7 inches (1364 mm)
Curb Weight Xj40:
Approx. 3800-4200 lbs (1724-1905 kg) depending on equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model and configuration (specified in manual)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120.65 mm (also referred to as 5x4.75 inches)
Tire Sizes:
Commonly 205/70R15, 215/65R15, 225/60R16 (varies by model year and trim)
Crash Test Data:
Limited formal crash test data available for this era. Emphasis on structural integrity for its time. Owner's manuals provide safety feature explanations.
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard on later XJ40 models (ABS), often Bosch-based. Coverage for system components and troubleshooting included.
Traction Control:
Not a common feature on these models, especially earlier ones.
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia reel seat belts standard in front and rear. Lap belts in rear center position on some models. Manual covers adjustment and inspection.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag introduced on later XJ40 models (around 1990). Coverage for airbag system inspection and SRS fault codes.
Body Structure:
Designed with a strong unibody structure, incorporating crumple zones. Manual provides details on body repair procedures.
Audio System:
Factory fitted premium audio systems, often with cassette players and radio. Manual covers basic operation and fuse locations.
Cruise Control:
Electronically controlled cruise control typically standard on most models. Manual covers operation and troubleshooting.
Internal Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD) were nascent in this era, primarily focused on EFI and ABS systems. Manual provides access points and fault code retrieval methods.
Automatic Climate Control:
Sophisticated (for its time) automatic climate control system managing HVAC functions. Manual covers component locations and diagnostic procedures.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000-6,000 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Refer to manual for exact recommendation.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles for iridium/platinum plugs, or as per manual for original types.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-4 years or as per manual, depending on coolant type used.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3 rated oil, typically 10W-40 or 15W-50 depending on climate (refer to manual for specific viscosity and capacity).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (ensure compatibility, manual specifies).
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific type (e.g., green or long-life) may vary. Manual is definitive.
Timing Chain Wear:
Early AJ6 engines had single-row timing chains which could stretch and cause noise or timing issues. Later models and AJ16 used more robust multi-row chains. Manual provides inspection and replacement guidance.
Head Gasket Leaks:
Can occur, especially with overheating. Manual details head gasket replacement procedure.
Body Rust:
Areas prone to rust include wheel arches, sills, door bottoms, and around the rear screen. Manual covers body panel repair.
Electrical Gremlins:
Vintage Jaguars can experience minor electrical issues due to age of wiring and connectors. Manual's wiring diagrams and diagnostic sections are invaluable.
Suspension Bush Wear:
Rubber suspension bushings can degrade over time, leading to noise and handling issues. Manual details bush replacement.
Jaguar Legacy:
Jaguar Cars has a long history of producing luxury and sporting vehicles, known for their performance, comfort, and distinctive styling since Sir William Lyons founded the company.
Series Iii To Xj40:
The XJ6 Series III (production until 1987) was an evolution of the original XJ design. The XJ40 (1986-1994) represented a significant departure with a more modern, angular design and new powertrain options.
Xj40 To X300:
The X300 (1994-1997) was a significant styling refresh of the XJ40, returning to more classic Jaguar lines, and introduced the new AJ16 engine family.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary production at Jaguar's Castle Bromwich plant in Birmingham, UK.
Production Period Xj40:
1986-1994
Production Period X300:
1994-1997
Automotive Journalism Acclaim:
The XJ series has historically received praise from automotive press for its ride comfort, handling balance, and luxurious appointments, often described as a 'four-door sports car'.
Owner Satisfaction:
Owner satisfaction varies, often high for those who appreciate the classic driving experience and unique character, but can be lower for those less tolerant of the maintenance demands of a vintage luxury car.
