🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jaguar

Model:

Vanden Plas

Year:

2008

Chassis Code:

X356 (Jaguar XJ Series)

Generation:

Third Generation (X350/X356)

Vin Code:

J

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2008 Jaguar Vanden Plas represents the pinnacle of Jaguar's luxury sedan offerings for that model year, positioned as a premium vehicle with a focus on refinement, comfort, and performance. This service manual caters to owners and independent repair facilities seeking detailed technical information to maintain and repair this high-specification automobile.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against other luxury sedans of its era such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, and Lexus LS. The Vanden Plas distinguished itself with its classic British luxury styling, emphasis on ride comfort, and the availability of the potent Jaguar V8 powertrain.

Key Features:

Official licensing from OE materials ensures accuracy and completeness. RepairSurge's platform provides instant access, searchability, and cross-platform compatibility. Offers significant cost savings compared to dealership servicing. Covers a vast array of systems and repair procedures for comprehensive vehicle care. 1-year access with renewal options.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Brakes, Steering, Suspension, Electrical System, Bodywork, HVAC, Wiring Diagrams, Diagnostic Procedures

Page Count:

Thousands of pages (comprehensive digital content)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Online Software/Web-based Access

Access Type:

Subscription-based, annual access with renewal discounts.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical (4.2L V8 Naturally Aspirated and Supercharged), Engine Control Systems (ECU Diagnostics and Calibration), Transmission (ZF 6HP26 Automatic), Differential and Axles, Air Suspension System (CATS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) & Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS) & Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Power Steering System, Front and Rear Suspension Components, Steering Column and Rack, Cooling System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Electrical Distribution System (Fuses, Relays, Battery), Lighting System (Exterior and Interior), Climate Control (HVAC), Audio and Navigation Systems, Body Control Module (BCM), Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) related diagnostics, Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Safety Restraint Systems (Airbags).

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive and detailed wiring schematics for all vehicle systems, color-coded for clarity.

Procedures Included:

Scheduled Maintenance, Routine Inspections, Diagnosis of Faults, Component Removal and Installation, Overhaul Procedures, Calibration and Reset Procedures, Wiring Harness Repair, Fluid and Filter Changes, Brake Pad and Rotor Replacement, Suspension Bushing Replacement, Engine Tune-up Procedures, HVAC System Servicing, Battery Maintenance, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Interpretation and Resolution, Body Panel Alignment and Repair, Interior Trim Component Replacement, Software Updates and Re-flashing (where applicable).

Technical Depth:

Factory-level diagnostic procedures, detailed exploded diagrams, torque specifications for all fasteners, electrical schematics, component testing procedures, special tool requirements, step-by-step repair instructions, troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Includes systematic troubleshooting flowcharts and diagnostic trees for electrical and mechanical faults.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Web-based access, compatible with standard web browsers on PC, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet.

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital content, high-resolution diagrams and text)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital access)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital access)

Content Source:

Licensed OE (Original Equipment) materials.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

AJ-V8 Gen III (4.2L)

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V8

Displacement:

4196 cc (4.2 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

86 mm x 90.3 mm

Compression Ratio:

11.0:1

Horsepower:

300 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

310 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm

Supercharged Engine Code:

AJ-V8 Gen III (4.2L Supercharged)

Supercharged Horsepower:

390 hp @ 6100 rpm

Supercharged Torque:

399 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Injection:

Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (SMPI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

70 Liters (18.5 US Gallons)

Emission Control:

Catalytic Converter, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

ZF 6HP26 Six-Speed Automatic Transmission

Optional Transmission:

N/A (6-speed automatic was standard for all 2008 Vanden Plas models)

Transmission Features:

Adaptive Shift Control, Sequential Manual Mode (Jaguar Sequential Shift), Comfort and Sport modes.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Mercon SP or ZF LifeguardFluid 6 (refer to manual for specific Jaguar part numbers and change intervals)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 9.0 Liters (dry fill), 5.5 Liters (fluid change)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

5027 mm (197.9 inches)

Width:

1863 mm (73.3 inches) (excluding mirrors)

Height:

1447 mm (57.0 inches)

Wheelbase:

3030 mm (119.3 inches)

Front Track:

1545 mm (60.8 inches)

Rear Track:

1550 mm (61.0 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1850 kg - 1950 kg (4079 lbs - 4300 lbs) depending on engine and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 2450 kg (5400 lbs)

Towing Capacity:

Not Recommended or Specified

Cargo Volume:

510 Liters (18.0 cubic feet)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

Not specifically rated for this model year by NHTSA in all categories, but designed to meet all applicable safety standards.

IIHS Side Impact Test:

Not specifically rated for this model year by IIHS in all categories, but designed to meet all applicable safety standards.

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) (Optional), Parking Sensors (Front and Rear).

Passive Features:

Front Airbags (Driver and Passenger), Side Airbags (Front and Rear Seat), Curtain Airbags (Head Protection), Seatbelt Pretensioners, Whiplash Protection System, Energy-absorbing Steering Column, Safety Frame Construction.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Jaguar Premium Sound System or Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System, Touchscreen Navigation System, Voice Control, CD/DVD Player, Satellite Radio capability.

Driver Assistance:

Optional Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Front and Rear Parking Aid, Rain-sensing Wipers, Auto-dimming Rearview Mirror.

Connectivity:

Bluetooth Phone Integration (may require specific accessory modules for audio streaming), Auxiliary Audio Input.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil required).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 100,000 miles (typically iridium-tipped plugs).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 60,000 miles or 48 months, or as per manual inspection guidelines.

Engine Oil Type:

Fully Synthetic SAE 5W-30 meeting Jaguar specification JLR.03.5004 (e.g., Castrol SLX Professional OE or equivalent).

Coolant Type:

Jaguar Performance Coolant (OAT - Organic Acid Technology), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Class 6 or higher.

Known Issues:

Air suspension compressor failures, front air strut leaks, water ingress into headlight/taillight units, early generation timing chain tensioner issues (though less common on the Gen III V8), EGR valve issues on some variants, heater control valve failures, alternator pulley bearing noise. The manual provides in-depth diagnostics and repair procedures for these and other potential issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Jaguar Cars has a rich history dating back to 1922, renowned for its luxurious sports cars and elegant sedans, emphasizing performance, style, and craftsmanship. The Vanden Plas nameplate itself has a long association with ultra-luxury variants of Jaguar models.

Model Evolution:

The 2008 Vanden Plas is part of the Jaguar XJ (X350/X356) generation, which debuted in 2003. This generation marked a significant shift with the adoption of an aluminum monocoque chassis for reduced weight and improved rigidity. The X356 update (introduced in late 2005 for the 2006 model year) brought styling revisions and powertrain enhancements, including the introduction of the 4.2L V8 engine, available in both naturally aspirated and supercharged forms. The Vanden Plas model typically represented the long-wheelbase version with enhanced luxury features.

Production Years:

The X350/X356 generation was produced from 2003 to 2009. The Vanden Plas variant was offered during this period.

Manufacturing Location:

Coventry, England, United Kingdom (Jaguar Castle Bromwich Assembly Plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Jaguar XJ range generally received positive reviews for its luxurious interior, comfortable ride, and refined performance. Specific awards for the 2008 model year Vanden Plas may vary, but it was consistently recognized as a strong contender in the luxury sedan segment for its elegance and driving dynamics.