Positioning:
Luxury executive sedan, competing with BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and Audi A8 of the era.
Competitors:
BMW 7 Series (E38), Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W140), Audi A8 (D2), Lexus LS 400 (XF20)
Features:
Classic Jaguar styling, refined ride quality, powerful inline-six engine, luxurious interior appointments, rear-wheel drive chassis.
Proposition:
Enables owners to perform significant maintenance and repair tasks themselves, saving considerable cost and ensuring proper upkeep of a premium vehicle.
Systems:
Engine, Drivetrain (Transmission, Axles), Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Electrical System (including Wiring Diagrams), HVAC, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Body and Chassis, Interior Trim, Diagnostics
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive, color-coded wiring diagrams covering all electrical systems (engine management, lighting, comfort, chassis electronics).
Climate Control:
Detailed information on the automatic climate control system, including component identification, operation, diagnosis, and repair of HVAC components (compressor, evaporator, heater core, fans, sensors, actuators).
Procedures:
Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, troubleshooting, diagnostic procedures, repair procedures, component replacement, assembly/disassembly, wiring harness repair, clutch repair, brake system overhaul, suspension component replacement, engine overhaul (major and minor), transmission service and repair, HVAC system diagnostics and repair
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for engine management and other systems, step-by-step troubleshooting guides.
Bodywork:
Repair procedures for body panels, doors, hoods, trunks, bumpers, and associated trim. Also covers window mechanisms and seals.
Fuel System Repair:
Procedures for fuel pump replacement, fuel filter replacement, injector testing and replacement, fuel pressure regulation, and fuel tank servicing.
Depth:
In-depth, professional level, suitable for experienced mechanics and DIY enthusiasts
Engine Rebuild:
Includes specifications for engine disassembly, inspection, machining, and reassembly, including torque values, clearances, and tolerances.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24 valves
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3239 cc) / 4.0 Liters (3980 cc)
Horsepower 3.2L:
Approx. 216 hp @ 5750 rpm
Torque 3.2L:
Approx. 226 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower 4.0L:
Approx. 245 hp @ 5000 rpm
Torque 4.0L:
Approx. 285 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm
Fuel Injection:
Multi-point electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, long-life coolant (e.g., Jaguar approved)
Oil Type Recommendation:
API SG/SH, ACEA A2-96 or similar (e.g., 10W-30, 10W-40, 5W-30 for colder climates)
Timing Mechanism:
Timing Chain driven dual overhead camshafts (DOHC)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22/4HP24)
Manual Transmission:
Not available for 1997 XJ6
Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent, check specific Jaguar recommendations)
Differential Type:
Limited Slip Differential (LSD) often standard on higher trims or optional
Differential Fluid Type:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (check specific Jaguar recommendations)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 119.5 inches (3035 mm)
Overall Length:
Approx. 199.8 inches (5075 mm)
Overall Width:
Approx. 70.9 inches (1801 mm)
Overall Height:
Approx. 53.7 inches (1364 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3800-4000 lbs (1724-1814 kg), varies by engine and options
Wheel Size Standard:
16-inch alloy wheels standard, optional 17-inch or 18-inch wheels
Offset:
ET33 to ET38 typical
Tire Size Standard:
215/65R16, 225/55R16 or 225/50R17 depending on trim/options
Crash Test Ratings:
No specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings readily available for this era/model in all markets, but designed to meet global safety standards of the time.
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS) often standard or optional
Passive Safety:
Driver and passenger front airbags, side-impact door beams, collapsible steering column, seatbelt pre-tensioners.
Front Brakes:
Vented Disc Brakes
Rear Brakes:
Solid Disc Brakes
Infotainment System:
Factory fitted premium audio system, often with cassette player and CD changer optional. Basic climate control, often automatic. Typically analogue gauges with some digital displays.
Cruise Control:
Standard fitment
Parking Assistance:
Rear parking sensors optional on some models.
Connectivity:
Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on audio and basic vehicle functions.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or annually, whichever comes first (check manual for specifics)
Major Service Interval:
Spark plugs, coolant flush, transmission fluid change typically recommended at 50,000-100,000 miles depending on service history and specific components.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for exact specification)
Power Steering Fluid:
Jaguar specific fluid or Dexron III compatible
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 9.5-10.5 Liters (varies slightly by engine)
Common Issues:
Timing chain tensioner wear (pre-AJ16 engines, less common on late AJ16), Nikasil bore liners (on early AJ16, replaced with aluminium block on later models), head gasket leaks, electronic control module (ECM) issues, rear main oil seal leaks, headliner sagging, ABS sensor failure, suspension bushing wear, air conditioning system leaks.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Typical Jaguar Part Numbers: JLM10934 or equivalent from Mann-Filter (e.g., W940/5), Wix (e.g., 57035), Mahle (e.g., OC286)
Air Filter Part Number:
Typical Jaguar Part Numbers: JLM10758 or equivalent from Mann-Filter (e.g., C30126), K&N (e.g., 33-2050)
Heritage:
Jaguar has a long-standing reputation for building luxurious, sporty, and elegant grand tourers and sedans, often associated with performance and refined driving.
Evolution Context:
The X300 generation (1994-1997) marked a significant return to classic Jaguar styling cues, moving away from the more angular XJ40. It was designed under the ownership of Ford Motor Company and utilized a more robust and reliable platform.
Production Years Model:
1994-1997 (for X300 series)
Manufacturing Location:
Coventry, England