🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jaguar

Model:

Vanden Plas

Year:

1999

Model Code:

XJ Series (X308)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1999 Jaguar Vanden Plas represents the pinnacle of Jaguar's luxury sedan offerings for the era, competing with other high-end executive cars. This service manual is targeted at owners and independent repair facilities seeking comprehensive, accurate repair information.

Competitive Analysis:

Compared to generic online repair databases, this officially licensed software provides OE-derived accuracy and breadth of coverage specific to the 1999 Vanden Plas, crucial for maintaining the complex systems of this luxury vehicle.

Key Features:

Licensed OE data, instant online access, PC/laptop/smartphone/tablet compatibility, comprehensive system coverage, year-long access with renewal options, cost-effective alternative to physical manuals or dealership service.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Electrical System, Bodywork, HVAC, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting

Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (based on typical OE manual size for this vehicle platform)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (Online Access via Web Browser)

Access Duration:

One (1) year of access, with discounts available for additional years.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Complete coverage of all mechanical and electrical systems, including detailed diagrams and specifications for engine, gearbox, axle, brakes, steering, suspension, climate control, lighting, power accessories, and body electronics.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, diagnostics, troubleshooting, component removal and installation, major repairs, overhauls, and calibration procedures.

Technical Depth:

Factory-level technical depth, including detailed diagnostic flowcharts, torque specifications, special tool requirements, wiring diagrams, exploded views, and precise repair instructions suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

Diagnostic Tools Coverage:

Covers procedures for factory diagnostic tools (e.g., Jaguar PDU - Portable Diagnostic Unit) and common OBD-II scanners, providing diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and troubleshooting steps.

Electrical Schematics Coverage:

Detailed wiring diagrams for all vehicle circuits, including engine management, lighting, comfort features, and safety systems.

Body And Trim Coverage:

Procedures for interior and exterior trim removal and installation, body panel repair, door, hood, and trunk adjustments, glass replacement.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Web-based HTML/JavaScript

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital Access - renders high-resolution diagrams and text)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Access)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Access)

Accuracy Licensing:

Officially licensed, derived from OE (Original Equipment) materials, ensuring high accuracy and reliability of information.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

4.0L AJ-V8 (Naturally Aspirated)

Engine Code:

AJ27

Displacement:

3996 cc (243.8 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

86 mm x 86 mm (3.39 in x 3.39 in)

Compression Ratio:

10.75:1

Horsepower:

290 bhp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

290 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel System:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Electronic Ignition (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) ignition

Cooling System:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with fan and thermostat.

Engine Management:

Jaguar Electronic Engine Control (JEC) ECU, likely a Lucas or Denso system.

Engine Layout:

V8, 90-degree bank angle

Valvetrain:

Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder (32 valves total)

Timing Drive:

Timing chains with hydraulic tensioners and guides.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Automatic (ZF 5HP24)

Optional Transmission:

N/A for Vanden Plas trim

Transmission Fluid:

Mercon V or equivalent synthetic ATF (Consult specific manual section for exact specification, e.g., Castrol TQ-D or JWS 3309)

Gear Ratios:

Consult manual for specific ZF 5HP24 ratios

Transmission Features:

Electronic control, selectable modes (e.g., Sport/Comfort), torque converter lock-up.

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Length:

Approx. 5115 mm (201.4 in)

Exterior Width:

Approx. 1792 mm (70.6 in)

Exterior Height:

Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 3020 mm (118.9 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1870 kg (4123 lbs)

Cargo Capacity:

Trunk volume: Approx. 0.44 m³ (15.5 cu ft)

Interior Headroom:

Front: Approx. 970 mm (38.2 in), Rear: Approx. 950 mm (37.4 in) (estimated)

Interior Legroom:

Front: Approx. 1040 mm (40.9 in), Rear: Approx. 1000 mm (39.4 in) (estimated)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings for 1999 models are generally not as comprehensive as modern standards. The manual will cover structural integrity related to collision impacts.

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS - likely optional or standard on Vanden Plas), Power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering.

Passive Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact protection beams, reinforced body structure, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, adjustable headrests.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Factory premium audio system, typically with cassette and CD player, and possibly an integrated navigation system. Manual will detail operation and basic troubleshooting.

Driver Assistance:

Cruise control, parking sensors (rear, possibly front on some models).

Connectivity:

Limited by era; primarily voice-activated phone system (if equipped), power antenna, and basic auxiliary inputs for audio.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change Interval:

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

Oil Filter Replacement:

Replace with oil change. Part Number Example: Jaguar C2S10693

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (specify coolant type in manual).

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG/SH/SJ or ILSAC GF-2, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on climate). Synthetic recommended.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (consult manual for exact type, often specified as DOT 4 LV for ABS systems).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 7.2 liters (7.6 US quarts) with filter change.

Known Issues:

Timing chain tensioner wear (especially early models with plastic tensioners, later models revised), Nikasil cylinder liner issues (less common on V8s than early V12s, but check for evidence of coolant leaks/overheating), head gasket leaks, ABS module failure, water pump leaks, climate control blower motor resistor failure, rear subframe bushings degradation, rust on wheel arches and sills.

Spark Plug Type:

NGK PFR6N-11 or equivalent, typically requiring replacement every 60,000-100,000 miles depending on type. Consult manual.

Tire Size:

Typically 225/60R16 or 225/55R17 (check specific vehicle fitment).

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120.65 (5x4.75 inches)

Wheel Lug Torque:

110 Nm (81 lb-ft)

Suspension Components:

Front: Independent double wishbone with coil springs and anti-roll bar. Rear: Independent multi-link with coil springs and anti-roll bar. Adaptive damping (CATS - Computer Active Technology Suspension) likely standard on Vanden Plas.

Brakes System:

Front: Ventilated discs, Rear: Solid discs. Power assisted with ABS.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Jaguar has a long-standing reputation for producing luxurious, performance-oriented grand tourers and sedans, emphasizing craftsmanship, comfort, and refined driving dynamics.

Model Evolution:

The Vanden Plas designation has historically been used by Jaguar for their most luxurious and opulent models. The 1999 Vanden Plas is part of the X308 generation, which introduced the V8 engine and updated styling while retaining classic Jaguar design cues.

Production Years:

X308 generation: 1997-2003. Specifically the 1999 model year.

Manufacturing Location:

Coventry, England

Model Significance:

The X308 Vanden Plas was a symbol of traditional British luxury, combining performance with a high level of comfort and refinement, catering to a discerning clientele.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

Jaguar models of this era often received accolades for ride quality, interior comfort, and styling. Specific awards for the 1999 Vanden Plas would need historical research, but it was positioned as a benchmark luxury sedan.