Product Name:
Jaguar XJ8 X308 1997-2003 Workshop Service Repair Manual
Generation Designation:
Third Generation (X308)
Production Years Covered By Manual:
1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Engine Codes:
AJ26, AJ27, AJ28 (V8 variants)
Positioning:
Luxury sedan offering refined comfort, performance, and classic British styling.
Competitors:
BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Audi A8, Lexus LS.
Design Philosophy:
Elegant, timeless styling with a focus on driver comfort and a sophisticated experience.
Platform:
Jaguar XJ (X308) platform, evolved from the XJ40 and previous generations.
Manual Purpose:
To provide comprehensive, step-by-step guidance for mechanics and DIY enthusiasts to maintain, diagnose, and repair the Jaguar XJ8 X308.
Primary Coverage:
Workshop Service and Repair
Vehicle Coverage:
Jaguar XJ8 (X308 Chassis)
Type:
Comprehensive Workshop Service Repair Manual
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Accessibility:
Viewable on Windows, Mac, Linux OS
Powertrain:
Engine (V8 variants), cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS included), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Engine management, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, body electronics, diagnostics
Body:
Body structure, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, HVAC system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault finding, common issues, electrical circuit tracing
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine disassembly/assembly, transmission service, brake caliper rebuild, suspension component replacement
Installation And Removal:
Component removal and installation for all major systems
Adjustments:
Engine timing, belt tensioning, wheel alignment specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to detailed component overhaul and diagnostics
Visual Aids:
Pictorial diagrams, exploded views, detailed illustrations, photos, schematics
Special Tools:
Reference to specific Jaguar service tool numbers and their usage
Specifications:
Factory specifications, allowable limits, tightening torques, wear limits
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
3.2L (3200cc) and 4.0L (3980cc)
Engine Codes Variations:
AJ26 (early 3.2L & 4.0L), AJ27 (later 4.0L, improved NVH), AJ28 (later 3.2L, improved NVH)
Horsepower 3.2L:
Approx. 240 hp @ 6300 rpm (specific figures vary by year/engine code)
Horsepower 4.0L:
Approx. 290 hp @ 6000 rpm (specific figures vary by year/engine code)
Torque 3.2L:
Approx. 284 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm
Torque 4.0L:
Approx. 303 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane recommended)
Valve Train:
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Management System:
Jaguar J-Drive (engine control module)
Known Engine Issues Covered
Primary Issues:
Timing chain tensioner wear (early models), Nikasil cylinder liner issues (pre-1999 US models), head gasket leaks, coolant leaks.
Type:
ZF 4HP24 (4-speed automatic) or ZF 5HP24 (5-speed automatic, later models)
Manual Transmission:
Not typically offered on XJ8 models, manual transmission available on XJ Sport models.
Transmission Control:
Electronically controlled with adaptive shift logic.
Fluid Type:
Dexron III (or equivalent ATF for ZF transmissions)
Capacity:
Refer to manual for specific capacities (typically 4-5 quarts for drain and fill)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 118.5 inches (3010 mm)
Length:
Approx. 197.4 inches (5014 mm)
Width:
Approx. 71.3 inches (1811 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54.0 inches (1372 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3900 - 4100 lbs (1769 - 1860 kg) depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle's VIN plate or manual
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 15.1 cubic feet (428 liters)
Crash Test Results:
NHTSA/IIHS data for this era may be limited; consult specific model year reports if available. Generally considered robust for its time.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage construction.
Audio System:
Premium audio systems, optional CD player, cassette player. Later models may feature enhanced audio options.
Navigation:
Optional GPS navigation system on select models.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Parking Assistance:
Optional rear parking sensors on later models.
Phone Integration:
Optional early mobile phone integration or Bluetooth on very late models, but generally limited by modern standards.
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual; typically 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (depending on usage and oil type).
Transmission Service Interval:
Refer to manual; often recommended around 60,000 miles or as per specific usage conditions.
Coolant Change Interval:
Typically every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles, using appropriate Jaguar coolant.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SJ or SL, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for precise viscosity and specification based on climate).
Coolant Spec:
Jaguar specific long-life coolant (e.g., ethylene glycol based with corrosion inhibitors), typically blue or green.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for exact specification).
Common Faults Covered:
Coolant leaks (hose, thermostat housing), plastic coolant reservoir cracks, timing chain tensioner failure (critical on early V8s), oil cooler leaks, ABS sensor issues, window regulator failures, heater control valve (HCC).
Maintenance Philosophy:
Emphasis on preventative maintenance and prompt attention to potential issues to ensure reliability and longevity.
Design Awards:
Often praised for its classic and sophisticated exterior styling.
Owner Satisfaction:
Generally positive for ride quality, comfort, and power, but can be subject to higher maintenance costs due to complexity.
Technical Compliance:
Designed to meet European and North American automotive safety and emissions standards of its production era.
