🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jaguar

Model:

XJS

Year:

1996

Market Segment:

Luxury Grand Tourer

Body Style:

2-door Coupe, 2+2 Convertible

Generation Identifier:

XJS Facelift (XJ-S)

Vin Code Engine:

4.0L V12 (1996 Model Year)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1996 Jaguar XJS represented the pinnacle of British automotive luxury and performance in its final years of production, catering to a discerning clientele seeking a refined grand touring experience.

Competitors:

Competed with other luxury coupes and convertibles of the era such as the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, BMW 8 Series, and Porsche 911.

Features:

Renowned for its powerful V12 engine, sophisticated styling, opulent interior, and comfortable ride, the XJS offered a unique blend of performance and luxury.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Mechanical:

Yes

Engine Electrical:

Yes

Fuel System:

Yes

Ignition System:

Yes

Transmission Manual:

Yes (for automatic transmission)

Transmission Automatic:

Yes

Driveshafts Axles:

Yes

Suspension Front:

Yes

Suspension Rear:

Yes

Steering System:

Yes

Brake System:

Yes

Wheel Alignment:

Yes

Electrical System Lighting:

Yes

Electrical System Instruments:

Yes

Electrical System Accessories:

Yes

Body And Chassis:

Yes

Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:

Yes

Body Electrical:

Yes

Wiring Diagrams:

Yes

Troubleshooting:

Yes

Diagnostic Procedures:

Yes

Component Removal Installation:

Yes

Specification Data:

Yes

Estimated Pages:

Extensive (Digital Format)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Online Software / Web-based

Access Duration:

1 Year (with discount for renewals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Performance:

In-depth coverage of the 6.0L V12 engine, including fuel injection, ignition timing, and emissions control systems.

Drivetrain:

Detailed information on the ZF 4HP24 electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission, including troubleshooting and repair.

Braking And Stability:

Comprehensive coverage of the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), brake fluid specifications, and general brake component service.

Climate Control:

Detailed procedures for servicing the R134a air conditioning system, heater core, and climate control module.

Routine Maintenance:

Covers oil changes, filter replacements, coolant flushes, spark plug replacement, and general inspection procedures.

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Includes symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and testing procedures for various electrical and mechanical systems.

Component Overhaul:

Provides detailed instructions for rebuilding or overhauling major components such as the engine, transmission, and differential.

Electrical Repair:

Includes comprehensive wiring diagrams and step-by-step instructions for diagnosing and repairing electrical faults.

Depth:

Factory-level detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

Diagnostic Tools:

References specific Jaguar diagnostic tools and procedures where applicable.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Web-based, accessible via browser.

Quality:

N/A (Digital)

Type:

N/A (Digital)

Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

V12, Naturally Aspirated

Displacement:

5.3 Liters (5343 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

83.0 mm x 83.0 mm (approx.)

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1 (approx.)

Valve Train:

Overhead Camshaft (OHC), 2 valves per cylinder

Horsepower:

237 hp @ 4250 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

300 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm (approx.)

Injection System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Lucas/Jaguar

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane)

Fuel Pump Type:

In-tank Electric

🔧 Transmission

Type:

ZF 4HP24 Automatic

Type:

N/A (Automatic was standard for 1996 model year)

Control System:

Electronically Controlled Transmission (ECT) with Sport mode.

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios available within the manual, generally optimized for smooth acceleration and highway cruising.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Jaguar Specification JLM 20233 (Typically Dexron III/Mercon compatible, consult manual for exact specification).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4970 mm (195.7 in)

Width:

1788 mm (70.4 in)

Height:

1270 mm (50.0 in)

Wheelbase:

2616 mm (103.0 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1850 kg (4079 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Information:

Specific NHTSA/Euro NCAP ratings for 1996 models are scarce, but the XJS was designed with robust safety structures for its era.

ABS:

Yes, standard Anti-lock Braking System.

Traction Control:

Optional/Later models may have featured it, consult specific vehicle for confirmation.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger airbags were standard.

Seat Belts:

3-point inertia reel seat belts with pre-tensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted premium sound system, often with cassette player and radio. Later models may have aftermarket head units.

Cruise Control:

Standard feature on most models.

Park Assist:

Not typically available on this model.

Usb Bluetooth:

Not available in original factory configuration; requires aftermarket integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for exact specification based on driving conditions.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, or as per the manual's detailed schedule.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Typically every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 10W-40 or 10W-50 (API SG/SH or higher), consult manual for precise viscosity and API rating.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Jaguar specific or equivalent green coolant.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Common Problems:

Potential issues include aging rubber hoses and seals, electrical gremlins common in British cars of this era, wear on suspension bushings, and fuel injector issues. The V12, while robust, requires meticulous maintenance.

Rust Prone Areas:

Wheel arches, sills, and underbody areas are susceptible to rust if not properly maintained and protected.

V12 Specifics:

The V12 ignition system (two coils, distributors) and fuel injection can be complex to diagnose and require specific tools and knowledge.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Jaguar has a long-standing reputation for producing luxurious, high-performance vehicles with elegant styling and advanced engineering.

Evolution:

The XJS, introduced in 1975, evolved significantly over its production run, with the 1996 model representing the final iteration of the iconic long-nosed GT, benefiting from numerous updates including fuel injection and improved aerodynamics.

Production Years:

1975 – 1996

Manufacturing Location:

Coventry, England