🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jaguar

Model:

Vanden Plas

Year:

2002

Generation:

XJ (X308)

Chassis Code:

X308

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2002 Jaguar Vanden Plas represented the pinnacle of luxury and refinement in Jaguar's XJ lineup for that year. It was positioned as a premium full-size luxury sedan competing with established European and American marques.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, Lexus LS, and Cadillac DeVille. The Vanden Plas emphasized classic British luxury, understated elegance, and a refined driving experience.

Key Features:

Long wheelbase for enhanced rear passenger space, plush interior appointments, sophisticated ride quality, powerful V8 engine, advanced features for its time.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, HVAC, Electrical Systems, Bodywork, Interior Components, Diagnostics, Maintenance

Page Count:

Extensive (Software-based, access to comprehensive OE data)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Online/Web-based Software

Access Duration:

1 Year of access included, with discounts for additional years.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

All major mechanical and electrical systems including: Engine (AJ-V8), Transmission (ZF 5HP24), ABS, Traction Control, Air Suspension, Power Steering, Climate Control, Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Audio, Security Systems.

Procedures Included:

Scheduled Maintenance, Routine Inspections, Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Procedures (including DTC retrieval and interpretation), Component Removal and Installation, Repair Procedures, Wiring Diagrams, Component Specifications, Exploded Views, Torque Specifications.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic fluid changes and inspections to advanced engine diagnostics, transmission overhaul, and electrical system troubleshooting. Includes factory-level diagnostic information.

Wiring Diagrams Coverage:

Detailed electrical schematics and wiring diagrams for all major systems are included.

DTC Coverage:

Comprehensive listing and explanation of Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) with troubleshooting procedures.

Body And Trim Coverage:

Includes procedures for body panel alignment, door and window mechanisms, interior trim removal and installation, and bumper systems.

HVAC Coverage:

Comprehensive HVAC system diagnostics, refrigerant handling, component testing, and repair procedures for the automatic climate control system.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Web-based Access (HTML, CSS, JavaScript)

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital Format - High resolution graphics and text)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Compatibility:

Compatible with PC, laptop, smartphone, or tablet via a web browser and internet connection.

Licensing:

Officially licensed, derived from OE (Original Equipment) materials by RepairSurge.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

Jaguar AJ-V8

Engine Displacement:

4.0 Liters (3961 cc)

Engine Configuration:

DOHC 32-valve V8

Horsepower:

240 hp @ 5000 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

284 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Injection:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug

Cooling System:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with thermostatically controlled fan.

Emission Control:

Catalytic converter, secondary air injection, evaporative emissions control system.

Engine Management System:

Jaguar Electronic Engine Control (JEC) or similar proprietary system.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

ZF 5HP24 5-speed Automatic

Optional Transmission:

N/A for Vanden Plas model

Transmission Features:

Adaptive shift control, Sport mode, Sequential manual shift capability (J-gate selector).

Transmission Fluid Type:

ESSO LT 71141 (or equivalent ATF specification)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 8.5 liters (for total fill, subject to drain and fill)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

120.4 inches (3058 mm)

Overall Length:

200.0 inches (5080 mm)

Overall Width:

70.1 inches (1780 mm)

Overall Height:

54.3 inches (1379 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4050 - 4200 lbs (1837 - 1905 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 5150 lbs (2336 kg)

Front Headroom:

Approx. 38.5 inches

Rear Headroom:

Approx. 37.8 inches

Front Legroom:

Approx. 42.1 inches

Rear Legroom:

Approx. 40.4 inches

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Driver:

Not explicitly rated under current NHTSA protocols for this year, but designed to meet contemporary safety standards.

NHTSA Front Passenger:

Not explicitly rated under current NHTSA protocols for this year, but designed to meet contemporary safety standards.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), Automatic Stability Control (ASC - on some models/options).

Passive Safety Features:

Dual front airbags, Side-impact airbags, Front and rear curtain airbags (optional/standard depending on specific market/trim), Crumple zones, Side-impact door beams, Seatbelt pre-tensioners.

Steering Column Design:

Collapsible steering column with tilt and telescopic adjustment.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Premium Alpine audio system with CD player, AM/FM radio, and cassette player. Optional navigation system.

Display:

Color LCD screen for climate control, audio, and navigation information.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, Parking sensors (rear).

Connectivity Options:

Limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on audio input (cassette adapter or auxiliary input installation often required for modern devices).

Comfort Features:

Heated and ventilated front seats, Multi-zone automatic climate control, Power-adjustable front seats with memory, Electric steering column adjustment.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

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

Transmission Fluid Interval:

Recommended every 60,000 miles, especially for heavy use.

Coolant Replacement Interval:

Every 50,000 miles or 5 years (Jaguar specific coolant).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately 100,000 miles for iridium spark plugs.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Fully Synthetic (API SM or SN)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 7.7 liters (with filter change)

Coolant Type:

Jaguar/Ford Premium Coolant (Orange or Yellow concentrate, mix 50/50 with distilled water)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

Jaguar spec ATF or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 10.5 liters

Differential Fluid Type:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90

Known Issues:

Timing chain tensioner wear (AJ-V8 engines prior to VIN 195847), Nikasil cylinder liner issues (early AJ-V8 engines, mostly rectified by VIN 195847), Air suspension compressor failure, ABS/Traction Control module failures, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, Headliner sagging.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Jaguar has a long-standing reputation for producing luxurious, stylish, and performance-oriented grand tourers and sedans, known for their craftsmanship and distinctive design.

Model Evolution:

The X308 generation, introduced in 1997, was an evolution of the X300 platform, featuring a new AJ-V8 engine, improved aerodynamics, and updated interior. The Vanden Plas represented the long-wheelbase, ultra-luxury variant.

Production Location:

Coventry, England

Production Years For Generation:

1997 - 2003

Model Notes:

The Vanden Plas trim level typically included extended wheelbase, premium leather upholstery, burl wood interior trim, and additional luxury amenities compared to standard XJ models.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 2002 Vanden Plas may not be readily documented, the XJ platform (X308) was generally well-received for its styling and luxury appointments by automotive journalists of the era.