🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jaguar

Model:

XJ6 / XJ12 (X300 Platform)

Production Years Covered:

1995, 1996, 1997

Chassis Code:

X300

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The X300 generation Jaguar XJ represented a significant step forward in refinement and reliability for Jaguar, blending classic styling with modern engineering. Positioned as a luxury executive sedan.

Competitors:

Competed with the Mercedes-Benz W140 S-Class, BMW E38 7 Series, Lexus LS400, and Cadillac DeVille.

Design Philosophy:

Retro-modern styling by Geoff Lawson, maintaining the iconic Jaguar XJ silhouette while incorporating updated aerodynamic and safety features.

Suspension Innovation:

Introduction of the self-leveling Jaguar Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) system for enhanced ride and handling characteristics.

Engine Development:

Evolution of the AJ6 engine into the AJ16, featuring significant improvements in performance and reliability for the 6-cylinder models.

📋 Manual Details

Vehicle Coverage:

All 1995-1997 Jaguar XJ6 (X300) and XJ12 (X300) models, including all engine and trim variants.

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2000 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Factory Authorized Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

4.0L AJ6 (AJ16) Straight-6, 6.0L V12

Transmission:

ZF 4HP24E 4-Speed Automatic, Getrag 290 5-Speed Manual (less common)

Drivetrain:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

Suspension:

Independent Front & Rear (IRS), Adaptive Damping System (IDS) where equipped

Brakes:

Front & Rear Disc Brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

Electrical:

Full Electrical Schematics, Lighting, Ignition, Charging, Starting, ECU, Body Control Modules, Power Accessories

Climate Control:

Automatic Climate Control, A/C System, Heating

Fuel System:

Fuel Injection (MPI), Fuel Pump, Lines, Tank

Exhaust System:

Catalytic Converters, Mufflers, Pipework

Steering:

Power Assisted Rack and Pinion

Body And Trim:

Body Panel Removal/Installation, Trim Components, Seals, Doors, Windows, Hood, Trunk

Interior:

Seats, Dashboard, Upholstery, Interior Trim Panels

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance (Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plugs, etc.), Fluid Level Checks and Replenishment

Repair:

Engine Overhaul (including cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft), Transmission Service and Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Overhaul, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Fuel System Repair, Exhaust System Repair

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Guides for Common Symptoms, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) Definitions and Procedures, Wiring Diagram interpretation

Special Tools:

Identification and use of required Jaguar-specific tools

Specifications:

Torque Specifications, Clearances, Gapping, Measurement Data

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, detailed repair procedures, complete overhauls, and in-depth troubleshooting. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Scan Quality:

High-resolution scans, generally clear text and diagrams. Clarity can vary based on original source quality.

Searchability:

Likely searchable text due to OCR (Optical Character Recognition) processing, enabling quick information retrieval.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Xj6:

3.2L AJ16 DOHC Inline-6; 4.0L AJ16 DOHC Inline-6

Engine Xj12:

6.0L V12 SOHC

Horsepower 4.0L Xj6:

Approx. 245 hp @ 4,750 rpm (may vary slightly by year/market)

Torque 4.0L Xj6:

Approx. 287 lb-ft @ 3,750 rpm (may vary slightly by year/market)

Horsepower 6.0L Xj12:

Approx. 318 hp @ 5,000 rpm

Torque 6.0L Xj12:

Approx. 385 lb-ft @ 3,250 rpm

Injection Type:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Sequential Ignition

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 10.0 - 11.0 liters (depending on engine variant)

Spark Plugs Xj6:

Typically NGK PFR6N-11 or equivalent (check manual for exact part number and gap)

Spark Plugs Xj12:

Typically Champion RC12YC or equivalent (check manual for exact part number and gap)

🔧 Transmission

Xj6 Transmission Standard:

ZF 4HP24E 4-Speed Automatic

Xj12 Transmission Standard:

ZF 4HP24E 4-Speed Automatic

Manual Transmission:

Getrag 290 5-Speed Manual (rarely specified for U.S. market XJ12, available on some XJ6 variants)

Automatic Features:

Electronically controlled, with sport/economy modes, lock-up torque converter

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Typically Dexron III or equivalent (e.g., Castrol TQ-D, Mobil ATF 220). Refer to manual for specific Jaguar specification (e.g., JLM 20477).

Automatic Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 - 9.5 liters (dry fill, check manual)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

117.1 inches (2974 mm)

Overall Length:

197.7 inches (5022 mm)

Overall Width:

70.7 inches (1796 mm)

Overall Height:

53.7 inches (1364 mm)

Curb Weight Xj6:

Approx. 4,050 - 4,300 lbs (1837 - 1950 kg)

Curb Weight Xj12:

Approx. 4,400 - 4,600 lbs (1996 - 2087 kg)

Standard Wheel Size:

16-inch alloy wheels (standard), optional 17-inch BBS alloy wheels

Standard Tire Size:

205/65 R16 or 215/60 R16 (check manual for exact fitment)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 120.65 mm (4.75 inch)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Data from this era is often limited or not directly comparable to modern standards. Consult specific market regulatory bodies if available.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.

Traction Control:

Optional or standard on later models (check specific vehicle configuration)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia reel seatbelts front and rear.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cell with crumple zones, side impact protection.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Premium audio systems, often with cassette and CD players, and amplifier integration. Nakamichi or Alpine were common suppliers.

Climate Control Interface:

Automatic Climate Control with digital display for temperature and fan speed.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Memory Seats:

Power adjustable front seats with memory functions for driver's seat.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards; typically featured power windows, central locking, and remote keyless entry on higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first. (Refer to manual for specific mileage/time based on driving conditions)

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving environment. (Refer to manual)

Spark Plug Replacement Xj6:

Approx. 30,000 - 60,000 miles for standard plugs, potentially longer for platinum/iridium. (Refer to manual)

Timing Belt Chain:

AJ16 engines use a timing chain, designed for the life of the engine, but regular inspection for tensioner wear is recommended. V12 uses timing chains.

Engine Oil Xj6:

API SJ/SL or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40 synthetic blend or full synthetic (check manual for exact viscosity and API rating, e.g., JLM 20723).

Engine Oil Xj12:

API SG/SH or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 (depending on climate). Check manual for specific Jaguar specification (e.g., JLM 20724 for specific V12 oil).

Coolant:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors. Jaguar recommended: GYS12 (OAT) or equivalent for later spec, check manual for initial fill spec.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation).

Headliner Sagging:

Common issue due to adhesive failure on the headliner fabric.

Rust And Corrosion:

Can affect wheel arches, sills, and rear subframe mounts due to age and climate exposure.

ABS Module Failure:

ABS warning lights and system malfunction can occur due to aging electronics or faulty wheel speed sensors.

Coolant Leaks:

Potential for leaks from radiator, heater core, or hoses, particularly due to aged rubber components.

Electronics Issues:

Aging wiring harnesses, minor electrical gremlins, and component failures are not uncommon in vehicles of this age.

Suspension Bushings:

Wear in suspension bushings can lead to noise and compromised handling.

V12 Engine Maintenance:

The V12 requires meticulous maintenance, including regular spark plug checks and carburetor/injection system tuning.

📚 Vehicle History

Jaguar Legacy:

Jaguar has a long-standing reputation for building luxurious, powerful, and beautifully styled sporting sedans and grand tourers since its inception in 1922.

Predecessor:

The X300 replaced the Jaguar XJ40 model.

Successor:

The X300 generation paved the way for the X308 (1998-2003) and subsequent XJ generations.

Manufacturing Location:

Coventry, England, United Kingdom

Production Years:

1994 - 1997

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Acclaim:

While specific awards for the 1995-1997 models are not as prominently documented as later generations, the X300 was widely praised for reviving the classic Jaguar elegance and significantly improving build quality and reliability compared to its predecessor.

Automotive Press Reviews:

Contemporary reviews often highlighted the refined ride, powerful engines (especially the V12), and luxurious interior appointments, cementing its status as a true luxury executive car.