Positioning:
Premium luxury sedan targeted at discerning buyers seeking comfort, refinement, and classic British styling.
Competitors:
Competed with other luxury sedans of its era such as Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, and higher-trim models from Lexus and Cadillac.
Features:
Supremely comfortable ride, quiet cabin, sophisticated interior appointments, powerful inline-six engine, and elegant styling.
Value:
Provides comprehensive, licensed OE data for effective DIY maintenance and repair, saving on costly shop labor.
Engine:
Comprehensive diagnostics, repair, and overhaul of the AJ6 4.0L inline-six engine.
Drivetrain:
Service and repair of the ZF 4HP22 automatic transmission, differential, driveshafts, and axles.
Brakes:
Detailed procedures for brake system inspection, repair, and overhaul, including ABS components.
Suspension:
Coverage for front and rear suspension systems, including shock absorbers, springs, control arms, and bushings.
Steering:
Repair and adjustment of the power steering system, steering rack, and tie rods.
Electrical System:
Extensive wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures, and repair information for all electrical components, including lighting, instruments, and ECUs.
Climate Control:
Service and repair of the air conditioning (A/C) and heating systems, including refrigerant handling and component replacement.
Fuel System:
Detailed information on fuel injection system components, fuel pump, fuel lines, and diagnostics.
Cooling System:
Maintenance and repair of the radiator, water pump, thermostat, and cooling fans.
Exhaust System:
Information on catalytic converters, mufflers, and exhaust pipe repairs.
Bodywork:
Repair procedures for body panels, doors, windows, and trim.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and tune-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic strategies and fault code interpretation for various systems.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems.
Overhaul:
Complete overhaul procedures for the engine and transmission.
Installation:
Guidance on the installation and replacement of various parts and accessories.
Depth:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder
Displacement:
3980 cc (243 cu in)
Horsepower:
Approx. 221 hp @ 4750 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 277 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm
Injection:
Bosch L-Jetronic electronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Ignition:
Electronic ignition with distributor and coil
Type:
ZF 4HP22 Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission
Option:
Manual transmission not typically offered on Vanden Plas models for this year.
Features:
Four forward gears with electronically controlled shift points for optimal performance and comfort.
Fluid Type:
Dexron III Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Length:
Approx. 197.4 inches (5014 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.4 inches (1788 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54.3 inches (1380 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,050 lbs (1837 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 5,100 lbs (2313 kg)
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag (standard from 1990 onwards).
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Frame Construction:
Body-on-frame construction with a unibody structure, designed for rigidity and occupant protection.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on Vanden Plas models.
Audio System:
Premium sound system, often with cassette player and AM/FM radio. Optional CD player may be present.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control with digital readouts for temperature and fan speed.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control system.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on in-car comfort and driver experience rather than external connectivity.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles (5,000 to 8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Transmission Fluid:
Recommended service every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km), depending on driving conditions.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH rated synthetic blend or full synthetic 10W-30 or 10W-40
Coolant:
Jaguar specific coolant or a 50/50 mix of deionized water and ethylene glycol-based antifreeze.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 automotive brake fluid.
Head Gasket:
While not as prevalent as in earlier XK engines, potential for head gasket leaks exists, especially if maintenance has been neglected.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear and tear on suspension bushings can lead to vague steering and ride comfort issues.
Electrical Gremlins:
Age-related degradation of wiring looms and connectors can sometimes cause intermittent electrical issues, particularly with the J-Gate shifter surround illumination or door locks.
Air Conditioning:
Serviceability of the A/C system, particularly refrigerant leaks and compressor performance, can be a common area for attention.
Cooling System Leaks:
Aging hoses and radiator seals can lead to coolant leaks, requiring regular inspection and replacement.
Heritage:
Jaguar Cars has a long-standing reputation for luxury, performance, and elegant design, dating back to its founding in 1922.
Xjs Xj Heritage:
The Vanden Plas is a luxurious trim level of the XJ series, which has been Jaguar's flagship luxury sedan for decades. The XJ40 generation (1986-1994) marked a significant departure in design and engineering from its predecessors.
Manufacturing Location:
Coventry, England
