Market Segment:
Luxury Grand Tourer (GT)
Primary Competitors 1997:
Porsche 911 (996 generation), BMW 8 Series, Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, Chevrolet Corvette.
Vehicle Design Philosophy:
Elegant styling, powerful V8 engine, comfortable grand touring capabilities, rear-wheel drive.
Engine:
AJ26 4.0L V8, including diagnosis, overhaul, fuel injection, ignition, lubrication, cooling.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, pump, lines, injectors, evaporative emissions control (EVAP).
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant passages, heater core, cooling fan operation.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting, ignition system, ECU, sensors, actuators, multiplex systems (if applicable).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear independent), steering system (power steering), braking system (ABS, EBD), wheels and tires.
Emission Control:
Catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, EGR system (if equipped), evaporative emission control.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Repair:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission service, brake caliper overhaul, suspension component replacement, steering rack repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common drivability and electrical issues.
Technical Depth:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, component testing, specifications for torque, clearances, and pressures, complete engine and transmission rebuild instructions.
NHTSA Rating:
Not extensively tested under modern protocols, but built to high luxury standards.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and passenger front airbags, potentially side airbags depending on specification.
Infotainment System:
Factory fitted premium audio system, optional CD player, cassette player, navigation system (less common on early models).
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, traction control system (TCS).
Connectivity Features:
Basic, no advanced Bluetooth or USB connectivity as per modern standards.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (check manual for exact spec).
Coolant Replacement:
Typically every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (refer to manual).
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (refer to manual for exact viscosity based on temperature).
Transmission Fluid:
ZF TE-ML 11A or 11B (equivalent to Esso LT 71141 or Mobil ATF LT 71141).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, meeting Jaguar specification (typically pink or orange).
Known Issues 1997:
Nikasil cylinder liner degradation (on early AJ26 engines in humid climates), water pump leaks, timing chain tensioner wear, plastic thermostat housing cracks, early gearbox control module failures.
